Arun Kumar Gupta
Imagine there is a bank that deposits money into your account every morning. However, there is a catch: you must spend all the money by the end of the day, as any unspent funds will be withdrawn, and the same amount will be re-deposited the next morning. No remaining balance from the previous day is carried over. What would you do? Most likely, you’d spend every penny. Now, consider that we all have such a bank in our lives. This bank is called “Time.” Every morning, 86,400 seconds are credited to our accounts, and by the end of the day, any unused seconds are withdrawn. We cannot carry over the leftover time to the next day. This analogy teaches us the crucial lesson of making the most out of every second we have.
Time is an invaluable resource, one that, once spent, can never be reclaimed. If we do not utilize our time for productive and positive actions, it is essentially wasted. Time’s true value is realized when we use it to improve our health, achieve happiness, attain success, and most importantly, help others. By alleviating the sufferings of others and engaging in selfless activities, we can ensure that our time is spent meaningfully. Consider the 24 hours in a day. If we deduct 8 hours for sleep, we are left with 16 hours. Out of these, if we allocate 2 hours for meals and daily routines and another 3 hours for commuting, we have about 11 hours remaining. This is the time we must cherish and use wisely. Whether it is for personal growth, spiritual happiness, or contributing to society, every second counts.
Spiritual happiness is a higher form of contentment that comes when we rise above selfish desires and think of collective well-being. It is achieved by engaging in activities that benefit not only ourselves but also the community, such as participating in religious ceremonies, community service, or simply helping those in need. A famous philosopher once said, “One for all, and all for one.” This statement underscores the importance of unity and collective effort. When we work for the common good, the benefits are manifold, affecting our families, communities, and even nations positively.
The concept of “Sab” (everything) is particularly relevant in this context. It teaches us to think beyond personal gains and consider the broader impact of our actions. This formula can be instrumental in fostering harmony within families and strengthening organizations. In today’s competitive world, where individualism often leads to fragmented families and strained relationships, the “Sab” principle can be a remedy. By inculcating this philosophy into our daily lives, many interpersonal and societal problems can be mitigated.
The value of time can be better appreciated through various scenarios: Ask a student who has failed a grade about the value of one year. Ask a mother who gave birth to a premature baby the value of one month. Ask the editor of a weekly magazine the value of one week. Ask a person waiting for someone about the value of one hour. Ask someone who just missed their train about the value of one minute. Ask someone who just avoided an accident about the value of one second. Ask an Olympic athlete who won a silver medal instead of a gold by milliseconds.
The adage “time waits for no one” Is a powerful reminder that our days are numbered. Yesterday is history, tomorrow is uncertain, and today is a gift – that’s why it is called the present. Embracing this perspective can lead to a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Living each moment fully, with joy, confidence, and purpose, is essential. It requires us to move beyond selfish interests and contribute positively to the world around us. Time, once gone, never returns. Thus, every second must be cherished and used wisely.
Time’s value also extends to our professional lives. Efficient time management is a crucial skill in today’s fast-paced work environment. Prioritizing tasks, setting goals, and avoiding procrastination can lead to higher productivity and job satisfaction. Successful individuals and organizations recognize the importance of time and employ strategies to make the most of it. They understand that time is a finite resource and that every moment spent idly is an opportunity lost.
Furthermore, time is a great equalizer. Regardless of one’s wealth, status, or background, everyone has the same 24 hours in a day. How we choose to spend these hours defines our path and our legacy. Those who utilize their time wisely often achieve their goals and lead more satisfying lives. They invest time in learning, building relationships, and pursuing passions, which yields long-term benefits. On the other hand, those who squander time often find themselves unfulfilled and regretful.
The significance of time is also evident in our personal relationships. Spending quality time with loved ones strengthens bonds and creates lasting memories. In a world where digital distractions are prevalent, dedicating time to family and friends shows that we value them. Meaningful conversations, shared experiences, and simple gestures of kindness can deepen our connections and enhance our emotional well-being.
To truly appreciate the value of time, we must also recognize the importance of self-care. Balancing work, family, and personal interests is essential for maintaining physical and mental health. Allocating time for relaxation, exercise, and hobbies helps reduce stress and increases overall life satisfaction. It is crucial to understand that taking care of ourselves enables us to be more effective in all areas of our lives.
In essence, the true value of time surpasses that of money. While money can be earned, lost, and regained, time, once lost, is irretrievable. Therefore, it is crucial to use our time judiciously, engaging in activities that bring joy, health, success, and contribute to the welfare of others. By adopting a selfless approach and prioritizing spiritual and social deeds, we can ensure that our time is spent in the most meaningful way possible. Living by the principle of “one for all and all for one” can transform our lives, families, and societies. It fosters unity, reduces conflicts, and creates a supportive environment where everyone can thrive. In today’s fast-paced world, where time seems to slip away unnoticed, it is imperative to recognize its value and make every moment count.
So, let’s embrace the gift of time, use it wisely, and live each day to the fullest. After all, time is indeed more valuable than money. In a world where we often measure worth by material possessions, it is time to shift our perspective and acknowledge that the true treasure lies in the moments we have. Time is the canvas on which we paint our lives, and how we choose to use it defines the masterpiece we create.
(The author is President of Arya Samaj Dayanand Marg, City Chowk, Jammu)
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