The Myth of “Someday”

I’ve talked with enough people over the years to recognize a dangerous phrase. “Someday.” Someday we’ll slow down. Someday we’ll travel. Someday we’ll spend more time together. Someday we’ll enjoy life.

And while planning for the future is wise, I’ve learned that someday has a way of staying just over the horizon. Because life keeps happening. Children grow up. Parents grow older. Friends move away. Opportunities pass.

Looking back, I realize life wasn’t waiting on the other side of those accomplishments. Life was happening while I was making those plans.

Perhaps that’s why I’ve become so protective of memories. Because no amount of money can purchase yesterday. And perhaps one of the greatest forms of wealth is learning to enjoy today. Not recklessly. Not irresponsibly. But gratefully. Because tomorrow is a gift. Not a guarantee.

Jesus never postponed life. He embraced meals. Friendships. Celebrations. Conversations. He lived fully in the present because He trusted His Father with the future.

Epictetus wrote: “Do not seek for things to happen as you wish, but wish for things to happen as they do happen, and your life will go smoothly.” Those words remind me that contentment isn’t found in someday. It’s found in today.