When Time Does Not Equal Money

We've all heard the expression, time is money. In business, there is a certain amount of truth in that. But there is one place where it is not true, although most of us act like it is. It is in our personal relationships. Many of us express our love for our children, our spouse, our parents or other family members by giving gifts or money. Can't spend time with your college age son, buy him a car. Can't spend time with your wife, send her flowers or pay for a day at the spa. Can't spend time with your mother, offer to pay for a cruise for her. While all of these are good things to do, they can never be replacements for time spent with you.

We get so wrapped up in our careers, in our search for health and beauty, in our hobbies or sports, that often we ignore those people that are most important to us. And, again, all of these things can play a strong supporting role in your life. But the lead role is in your relationships, especially with those you love, be it family or friend.

The people that love you, love YOU, not your money. They want to be with you, not with your money. Money can, at best, be only a minor expression of love, never the real thing. The purchased gift you give can only be a dim facsimile of the real thing, and in many cases, means nothing to the person receiving it. Love is best expressed in person by spending time with the person. Spending your time, a very precious commodity indeed, is the most important way to share yourself and your love with someone else. Who needs your love today? Who are you taking for granted? Is there someone you love that you haven't spoken with or visited in days or weeks or months? Commit today to making your love relationships a priority in your life.

You'll be so glad you did.

All blog content is copyrighted, all rights reserved, Mary Anne Fields and Life Unfolds, 2006