I had told Charis “yes” a hundred times on those rides and crazy car buggies in the grocery store. (What crazy person thought of those anyway? Have you ever tried to drive one full of groceries??) But I had told her “no” a thousand times.

Not today.  I’m in a hurry.  Next time.

Imagine my horror when I finally said “yes” and she was too big for the car. She had outgrown it. The window had closed. Just like that.

I thought I would burst into tears. Fortunately the Lord provided a “bigger car”  so she did in fact get to ride. But the shock that both of us felt has imprinted on my mind. Had I really chosen best? Had everyone, everything else been more important that enjoying my child enjoy be a child?

What all am I missing by rushing around? How many windows are closing while I am checking off boxes?

This is a microcosm of our lives.  Are we really doing the important? Are we really focusing on the now? Are really seeing and living our lives, or are we in some self -made perpetual fog. Whether the fog is worry or striving, denial or laziness, dreaming or planning, are we focusing on the people and purpose of what God has placed right in front of us?

I don’t feel beat up or condemned. I feel supremely grateful for the wake up call.

Childhood has an expiration date. But life has one too. Live your life. Full out without excuses and quitting. Push hard to absorb and enjoy every season, obstacle and blessing. Breathe deep. God is in the details.

It is not the goal or destination we will remember. But the moment by moment living on the way.