In a world where things are becoming ever more digital, learning to read the time displayed on an analogue clock face is perhaps a skill that is becoming less valuable. This has not stopped one of my daughters from being recently intent on mastering the art. Together we have found many ways to make this process engaging, especially using real-world contexts. A timer that visibly shows how much time is left is also helping her to learn the extremely useful skill of ‘time management’. In watching her practising on her own, I have been reflecting on how fast she is growing up and how my time with her before she leaves the metaphorical family nest is limited.
You have likely heard the expression that people will not remember what you have said, or what you did, but rather they will remember you for how you made them feel. Indeed, the people who I remember most fondly are those who have chosen to invest in sharing moments of their time with me. Steve Jobs, the founding CEO of Apple, reflected "...the most precious resource we all have is time". So, how I choose to use the time that I have left with my daughter is vitally important.
We have all been guilty of splitting our attention, trying to do multiple things at once. I admit that this happens to me too, such as when my children come to me while I’m working on my computer; they are craving connection, seeking time with Dad.
In his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus outlines that God too yearns to have a relationship with each of us. “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” (Matthew 7:7-8)
Today we have been blessed with another day of life. As we live our today, I encourage us to reflect on how we are using our most precious resource. Our children, our family, our friends and our God crave to spend time with us. May we intentionally choose to put away the distractions and invest time into building strong relationships.
If you’ll excuse me, I have some playing that I must do with my daughters.
“Everyday is a gift you've been given; make the most of the time every minute you're livin." Chris Rice
Mr Darren Martin
Assistant Head of Secondary: Teaching & Learning
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