Last week marked my 8th wedding anniversary. Dave and I were married 5+ years, and I am so thankful for the time we had together. We were married aboard a cruise ship, Majesty of the Seas, in the Port of Miami. Approximately forty of our closest friends and family joined us for a trip to the Bahamas and Key West. It was a trip to remember!

Like a good husband, God is always so gracious to me—it just so happened last week (on my anniversary) that a neighbor gave me a belated Christmas gift and another friend brought us dinner. I love that God had it in the works to bless me!

Around that time, I was writing at the bookstore and overheard a conversation. I know one of the girls through mutual friends. Actually, I have only met her once but know she got married over the summer. She and her friend were talking about newlywed things.

Plans, hopes, dreams and goals.

While I wasn’t intentionally listening, our tables were in close proximity. So I loosely caught details while trying to work. These girls were discussing future travel plans, when something my acquaintance said struck me.

She said, “For our ten year anniversary, we are going to…”

Now, I didn’t know them well enough to interrupt their conversation. And I didn’t want my emotions to squash their excitement. But here’s what I’d say to the girls in the bookstore:

“Take the trip. If it’s possible, do it sooner rather than later. Don’t wait. Life often turns out differently than planned. There have been many good, unexpected twists and turns over the years. But we don’t have any guarantees of even tomorrow.

So take the trip.

We have a tendency to put things off, important things in lieu of the urgent. But don’t delay. Married or not, perfect home or not, dream job or not, ideal body weight or not—live to the fullest today because Life is so short.

I am not saying to ‘break the bank’ in order to do fun things or to simply ‘live for today.’ I am not recommending irresponsibility or neglect. Make good plans for the future, yes, but trust God to direct your path.”

Proverbs 16:9 says, “A man’s heart plans his way,
But the Lord directs his steps.“

Most of Life’s greatest joys require no money at all. Spend time with those you love. Celebrate and cherish the fun moments. Forgive and let go of grudges. Enjoy good food and don’t chase a number on a scale. Serve others and extend grace to those who need it. Be kind and generous. Use your words to build up people. Don’t let today pass without doing the most important things. (The dishes and laundry can wait.)

Dave and I made plans. But ultimately, God directed our steps. We had a beautiful cruise ship wedding and enjoyed our marriage. We worked hard and served our community. We traveled and played well. We jumped into Life as an adventure with God. Of course, I would have loved to have more time. But our time was well spent.

My life looks different now. It is important to me to relish these preschool days with Lydia…because all too soon, that will change. Today, this meant morning snuggles and painting little finger nails. Occasionally, we eat oatmeal with sprinkles on top or chocolate-dipped strawberries—just because. Some days, we stay home to enjoy a quiet day instead of running errands. (Those are good days to catch up with the dishes and laundry!)

So, to the girls in the bookstore: Take the trip. Don’t delay. Make plans, but remember Life is short. Seek God’s plan on purpose…and live well today.

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God, thank You for filling our lives with Your goodness. Help us make the most of each day as we live for You. We trust You to lead us on right paths. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What changes are you considering to make the most of your time? Is there someone you can encourage along the way?