We can’t slow time, but we can fill it with what matters most

We've always been intrigued by the last words of others. George Appel, facing execution in 1928, quipped: 'Well, gentlemen, you are about to see a baked Appel.' Drummer Buddy Rich, being prepped for surgery, was asked if there was anything he couldn't take. His response? 'Yeah, country music.' Even in their final moments, these individuals found humor. But whether our last words are profound or playful, we all eventually speak them. Our topic this week, Life is Short -- Don't Wait, focuses on the words we should speak and the actions we should take while we're still blessed with the here and now.

✨3 Ideas

1. Slow Down to Truly Live: Letting Go of the Unimportant

Life is too short to be busy. In our frantic rush from one task to the next, we mistake motion for meaning, confusing a full calendar with a full soul.

Many realize at life’s end that happiness was a choice they could have made all along. True spiritual living asks us to eliminate the noise that crowds our days -- not to do more, but to make space for what transforms us.

Slowing down takes courage: the courage to release what doesn’t serve our spirit so we can prioritize what does.

2. Recognize Urgency: The Illusion of Infinite Time

We deceive ourselves into believing time is endless. The result: that conversation, that renewed connection, that human touch -- all put off until mañana.

But our souls know the truth: We must stop waiting for the perfect moment and act today on what matters. Classic wisdom teaches that great people “come with their days,” meaning they make every day count.

The spiritual path isn’t about ‘someday.’ It’s about recognizing that today is the day we’ve been given to live fully.

3. Make Time for Who Matters Most

One of our deepest regrets as we age is losing touch with friends, letting golden relationships slip away while caught up in our own busy lives.

In the end, only love deserves to be remembered. Joe DiMaggio’s devotion to Marilyn Monroe continued for twenty years after her death. Three times a week, he sent roses to her grave.

His final words were, “I finally get to see Marilyn.” This is the transformation our souls seek: a well-lived life measured by love.

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📜2 Quotes

“Go to the ant, you lazy one; see its ways and grow wise.”
— Proverbs 6:6

“There’s still time to change the road you’re on.”
— Led Zeppelin, “Stairway to Heaven” 

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❓1 Question

Who in your life would be delighted to hear from you?

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A gas station attendant once apologized to a clergyman for the long holiday weekend wait. “It seems as if everyone waits until the last minute to get ready for a long trip.” The clergyman smiled. “I know what you mean -- it’s the same in my business.”

Let’s not wait until the last minute to do the things that truly matter. Life is short -- and it goes fast.

Until next time,
May you live each moment with presence, and may life and love walk beside you always.

Rabbi Ze'ev Smason

P.S. When was a time you acted “before it was too late” and felt grateful you did? I’d love to hear your story. Please reply and share it with me.

P.P.S. Life is short -- including the time to share what matters. If these reflections touched you, don’t wait. Pass these sparks along to someone who also might be inspired.