The Gift of Now

As simple as time works, it also seems so complex. We have 24 hours in a day, yet most of it is spent sleeping or working (depending on your schedule, of course). Ironically, I’m up at 4:00 a.m., phone in hand, typing out this message because—well—I felt inspired.

With what we imagine to be so much time in a day, we certainly take it for granted. The loved ones we don’t phone (call, not text), the strangers we pass without a simple “hello”, or the moments we don’t give ourselves to simply sit in silence and rest from a long, chaotic day. We treat this precious commodity called “life” as though it’s infinite. Reality check: it isn’t.

My former boss passed away earlier this year from breast cancer. She was such a warrior—my “superwoman”—that I honestly didn’t think the day would come when her cape would be taken off. I had an opportunity to see her before she passed that I didn’t take, thinking to myself, I’ll see her next month. That moment has stayed with me. It’s an ache I’m sure will never fully go away.

In her memory, I participated in the “Walk for the Cure” this morning. As I walked, I thought about her strength, her full-of-life personality, her cheerfulness, and the impact she had—not only on me but on everyone fortunate enough to cross her path. It was a walk of remembrance, a time for gratitude and serenity, and a quiet reminder to myself to not wait—to make the call, to show up, to cherish the moments while we still can.

I want to challenge you: reach out to someone you haven’t spoken to in a while. It doesn’t have to be a long conversation—even a simple “hello, thinking of you” can mean the world. Time waits for no one, and sometimes it’s the smallest gestures that leave the deepest marks.

To Ms. Portia, Mama P, superwoman—you are truly missed. Your enthusiasm and love for life are qualities I try to emulate because you brought light into every space you entered. It was an honor to be a part of your team and under your leadership. Your cooking was unmatched and, guess what—you were almost right! I did end up selling food… just not cooking, but baking. I smile when I scroll through our WhatsApp messages (I can’t believe I still have our entire thread from the first time you messaged in 2019) or hear your voice in an old voice note. The 'I wish' and shoulda-coulda-wouldas are all I’m left with, but I’m grateful for the time shared and the memories created. As you continue to rest, and until we meet again—I love you, Ms. P. 🩷

Sharing a few special moments I had the privilege of capturing.