Make the Time
Today is 2.26.26. It is a moment in our lives that we will never have back again. As a math teacher, I can’t help but get excited when I see fun number patterns like this. It reminds me to slow down a bit and take notice of where I am. So for whatever it’s worth, here are my thoughts on the power of making the time on 2/26/26. Maybe I will even submit this at 2:26 p.m.
There are so many ways to connect with people these days. It’s pretty amazing if you think about it. Texting, phone calls, emails, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, FaceTime the list is long. I am still amazed that I can pick up my phone and see my mom in New York while I am sitting in rural Penobscot, Maine. In a matter of seconds, the miles between us disappear. We are lucky to live in a time with so many options for communication.
And yet, even with all of that convenience, there is still nothing more powerful than a face-to-face visit. There is a warmth and an energy that simply cannot be replicated through a screen. Even just the comfort of sitting beside someone when no words are spoken nourishes something deep within us.
It is often said that the greatest gift you can give someone is your time and attention. When you give your time, you are giving a portion of your life that you will never get back.
And yet, even when we understand how important this physical face to face connection is, our lives seem to grow busier by the day.
My friend Carol reminded me about her “tea time” with a younger neighbor that has been a lifeline for both of them. It’s super simple. They just carve out an hour a few mornings a week and have tea together. Tuesdays it’s at her house and Fridays it’s at her friends’.
This small ritual has allowed them to reconnect in a beautiful way, and has inspired Carol to reach out to others to do the same. Connection doesn’t have to be dinners or elaborate; it can just be an hour conversation around a cup of something. It has helped Carol and her friend so much, allowing them to share deeply and comfort each other.
Research continues to show that making time for social connections has significant benefits for our health and well-being. People with strong social support systems are less likely to experience depression and anxiety. They often have stronger immune systems and even improved cognitive function. Having meaningful relationships increases our sense of purpose and belonging.
Dr. Sanjay Gupta writes in his book Stay Sharp, “Social interaction is one of the best ways to fight off dementia.” That alone should make us take this seriously.
But even beyond the physical and mental benefits, being together represents one of the purest forms of love. Whether it’s a friend, an acquaintance, a neighbor, or your significant other, offering your time and undivided attention means more than any gift, text, letter, or phone call ever could.
If you truly want to love someone, be with them. Make the time.
“We make time for what we truly value.” —C.J. Mahaney
“The bad news is time flies. The good news is you’re the pilot.” —Michael Altshuler
Love and gratitude,