Time Flies, but It Should Fly to Recycle Our Suffering and Tears — Otherwise, Humanity Would Remain Forever Wounded

While you may feel a twinge of sadness when happy moments pass, remember that somewhere, someone else desperately needs time's forward movement to process their grief and heal their wounds.

Me, gazing at the golden rays after a beautiful sunset. I feel no sadness as the sun slips away for a few hours, knowing that someone on the other side of the world desperately needs its light. | Photo by Jagwinder Photography

Time, in its relentless forward motion, never pauses for any individual or circumstance, and this perpetual movement serves a profound purpose in the grand scheme of existence. As we observe the passage of time, we notice that it maintains its steady march through both the brightest moments of joy and the darkest hours of despair, treating each with equal measure and unwavering consistency.

We often find ourselves expressing frustration at time's swift passage, particularly when we perceive it as moving too quickly. This sentiment typically stems from viewing time through an unnecessarily limited perspective, failing to appreciate its broader significance. Time is an eternal force that continues its steady progression regardless of whether we are actively conscious of it or not. Even as you engage with these words, time silently advances, collecting moments and experiences in its endless journey.

Within this seemingly relentless progression lies an inherent beauty. Time's impartial nature means it treats all moments — whether filled with happiness or sorrow — with perfect equality. If time were to suddenly halt its march, we would find ourselves trapped in whatever circumstance we were experiencing, be it pleasure or pain. Time maintains a remarkably impartial and objective stance, showing no preference or favoritism toward any particular emotional state or situation. While this quality might initially appear harsh or unforgiving, it actually embodies a deep and profound wisdom.

The healing power of time manifests through its continuous movement. Our deepest sorrows, most intense grief, and painful experiences gradually transform and heal precisely because time refuses to stand still. Consider the alternative: if time were to cease its forward motion, our emotional wounds would remain perpetually fresh, never given the opportunity to heal and transform. This is why time's ceaseless movement serves as a blessing rather than a curse.

Life presents us with numerous challenges — the loss of loved ones, the end of relationships, academic or professional setbacks, financial difficulties, health struggles — yet all these experiences eventually transform because time continues its steady progression. Without this movement, our emotional injuries would remain forever raw and unhealed. Instead, time's passage allows our wounds to gradually mend and our hearts to slowly recover.

We sometimes experience disappointment when pleasant moments come to an end, such as during a particularly enjoyable vacation or celebration or moments with loved ones. However, this same unstoppable progression of time that concludes our happy moments also ensures that periods of suffering and hardship will eventually pass. This represents time's perfect equilibrium — its ability to treat all experiences with absolute fairness and impartiality.

Time serves as the universe's most efficient recycler, continuously transforming both our joys and sorrows through its perpetual movement. Rather than wishing for time to slow down or stop, we should focus on maximizing the value of each moment as it passes. While the rapid passage of time shouldn't cause anxiety, we can still strive to use our time thoughtfully and purposefully.

Recently, during a particularly challenging personal period spanning several weeks, I found myself contemplating how deeply I should allow myself to feel the weight of my circumstances. While sadness naturally emerged, maintaining awareness of time's broader perspective helped prevent these emotions from becoming overwhelming. Understanding that time would continue moving forward, just as it does through joyful moments, provided comfort and perspective.

We must respect time's unique ability to heal wounds, transform experiences, and gradually convert our tears into smiles — a process that can only occur through its continuous movement. Time's flight is not just inevitable; it is essential and beneficial. Let us be grateful for time's unwavering journey and all that it brings.

While discussing time's swift passage, I'd like to offer a joyful break from these reflections with a happy memory. Once, residents of Campbellton/Restigouche County and I hiked Sugarloaf Mountain together at Sugarloaf Provincial Park in New Brunswick. At the peak, we all danced Punjabi Bhangra to celebrate joy, hope, positivity, and community building. The most beautiful moment came when two participants from this group, overwhelmed with joy, decided to marry right after our dance finished:

Next time, when a cherished moment draws to a close and you find yourself wishing you had more time to savour its beauty and significance, take comfort in knowing that this same unstoppable progression of time serves a greater purpose. While you might feel a twinge of sadness at its passing, remember that somewhere, someone else desperately needs this forward movement of time to process their grief, heal their wounds, or find their way through darkness. The very same force that brings an end to our joyful moments also carries others toward healing and renewal.

Recognize time's fundamental neutrality in all situations. Time maintains perfect impartiality, showing no preference or bias between moments of joy or sorrow, triumph or failure. It progresses with unwavering consistency, treating each second with equal measure regardless of its emotional weight or significance. This steady, unbiased movement through all experiences — whether they bring pleasure or pain, celebration or challenge — flows consistently forward without favour or prejudice. The universal equality of time's passage applies to every being, every circumstance, and every situation, which can bring a profound sense of liberation when we truly understand this principle. This impartial nature of time serves as both a comfort in difficult moments and a reminder to cherish the pleasant ones.

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