Got to be Real: Wondering where the time goes

By SHONNA SHECKLES

Do you ever find yourself thinking there are not enough hours in the day to get done what you need to do? Do you sometimes think maybe we have run out of time and will not complete all the tasks set before us? Do you sometimes feel times have changed as far as how we deal with each other as a society?

For all these questions, I answer yes.

My days are so full with work and attempting to take care of my family — which, as we all well know, is a full-time job. When I get up in the morning at 7:15, in my head I could be scheduled until 4 in the afternoon or three weeks away with the things I feel need to be completed in my life to make me happy and close the loop.

We as human beings want it all, but can we have it all?  I would love to add at least five more hours to my day. But, more than likely, I would cram with more stuff and yet again want more time.

Growing up, I was taught not to bite off more than I could chew. But over time, I would have a full plate with sideboards, so to speak, because I can never really say no. Then, I get all backed up against the wall and, like a caged animal, I come out fighting to finish all the tasks put before me. Then I think, “Shonna, you really did this to yourself, yet again.”

I always want to complete what I have started, but is it logical to think I can do everything? Being everything to everybody wears you down and, at times, makes me lose focus on what is important.

All this schedule keeping and task managing if affecting the way we treat each other, too.

I feel as if times have changed in the way we interact with each other on a daily basis. People are not as nice as they once were, in my opinion. I think we all are so wrapped up in our own lives and problems we often forget about our fellow man.

I’m use to people waving, smiling and asking how you I’m doing. There was a time that saying “yes” and “no,” instead of “naw” and “yea” was called being polite or having manners. When was the last time you held a door open for someone and they did not even mutter thank you?  When that happens to me, I’m mad to say the least, and in my aggressive way, I say loudly, “You are welcome.” Now, when I think about it, my reaction is not right. I don’t know what that person is going through, but by the same token, please don’t take it out on me.

So I’m issuing a challenge to you and myself also. Let’s take the time to smell the roses and know that time is not promised to any of us. Let’s not waste what we have been given. Enjoy it to the fullest.

Shonna Sheckles lives in Bardstown and works in Elizabethtown. Her email address is kyclassie78@hotmail.com.