Seize each day -- live life to fullest

  • Published
  • By Chaplain (Capt.) Samuel T. Rorer III
  • 347th Rescue Wing
Amazing how fast time passes. Seems like only yesterday we were unpacking the truck and settling in to a new assignment here. Somehow, almost unbelievably, it is time for the truck to return and move us to another new place to live.

Without our permission, time moves our lives forward each and every day. If we aren't careful, we can settle into a life that is just mindlessly getting through another day. Not one of us can stop or deny the movement of time, and we never get a chance to relive a single day.

However, we do get a choice. We can choose to seize every new day and make the most of each assignment.

I believe life is no accident. Life is a gift of God to be lived to the fullest. You only get one chance at living your life, so God's challenge is to make the most of every single day!

During my time here, so many things have happened in my life, and so many things have happened in our world. I know only too well that a single telephone call has the power to change almost everything.

There is not a single person alive exempt from the realities of this life.

Terrorists seize aircraft, doctors call with results, sirens scream down the road, commanders inform us of decisions, relationships start and end, and a million other events impact our lives. The question isn't if you will face tough times. The real question is how you will face them.

Each day we can practice living life to the fullest. "Work hard, play hard" -- I've heard that expression most of my life. In the Air Force, we understand that phrase and most of us live that way. We understand our lives are fragile and tomorrow is guaranteed to no one.

If you aren't living your life to the fullest, I suggest you employ these simple guidelines.

First, decide the kind of person you want to be, and do something today to make it true. Each of us know the Air Force core values: integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all we do. Strive to be the person whose life meets those standards. Then start living that way.

Each of us can do better in some area of life. Take an inventory of your life and decide where to make positive changes. Then live that life.

Second, focus on what you want to give, rather than what you want to get. Here is a real secret to happiness. Many people seem to think backwards about how to find true happiness. Many think that happiness comes from having things instead of living a life of significance.

Instead of setting a goal for how much money you will make, set a goal for how much money you will give. Instead of setting a goal for attaining promotion, set a goal for what you could do to make yourself a more valuable member of your unit. The difference is more than just words, it is a matter of focus.

Finally, look for lasting significance in all you do. It may seem like small talk to you, but time invested with a young person may result in the youngster hearing something life-changing. Time invested with fellow workers, family and friends is never insignificant or wasted.

There are no throw-away moments. Every day matters. Look for the lasting significance in your work, your relationships and your actions.

"Seize the Day!" Live life boldly and fully. (Courtesy of Air Combat Command News Service)