Seasons illuminate priorities

But, the speed of life and the worries of the world cause us to miss the seasons, and, because of that, we miss what should be the priority of life.

A couple of season examples at different ends of this spectrum.

I was on a late night plane trip a few weeks ago. As a lady squeezed into her seat, she said, “if anyone tells you these are your golden years, don’t believe them.” Her and her husband were in their 80’s, had started their day at 4am in Orange County, and were traveling to Northwest AR for a family wedding. That trip is a grind, especially for them. But, they knew their season. Their priority was family, and they would not have missed that wedding for the world. It was worth the pain and endurance to be their family.

At the other end of the spectrum, I have a friend that recently was married. A completely different season. Over the last few months, she has been knee deep in planning, reviewing details, all the things it takes to create a wedding these days. My friend was stressed, focused, and rightly prioritized on the most important thing in her season of life.

Maybe those two examples are easy. Different ends of the spectrum, easy to recognize the season, easy to prioritize.

But, what about all those seasons in between. Do we recognize the season which illuminates what should be prioritized?

I have friend whose dad is battling health issues. He recognizes the season. Another one whose child just graduated high school. I see in her life her priority. She recognizes the season.

The question for us is do we recognize the season? Because, if we do, it points to what should be the priority.

The issue we all face is that the worries of the world blind us to the season. Comparisons, material possessions, future well being, savings, and on and on and on. Those worries that live between your ears that come out when your head hits the pillow.

These worries cause us to miss the season. And, once the season is gone, it is done. That wise couple from Orange County knew this well.

So, know your season. When you do, you will see that the priority is never you. It is about other people. It is a great way to think about your life.

And, as a leader, and we are all leaders, know the seasons going on around you. Grace and empathy will abound with this mindset.

Impact others. Live generously.