Rambling on about Time, Presence, and Connection…..

If you had asked me this question many years ago, what is the greatest gift someone could give me? My answer would likely have been very different. I might have mentioned a cherished item, a generous gesture, or some form of recognition that made me feel special or valued. Even a few years ago, my perspective would have leaned toward tangible things, maybe a thoughtful present or a favor that lightened my load. Life was busier then, full of constant motion and interaction, and material gifts seemed to carry more weight. Now I can’t seem to purge enough of the “stuff” of life.

But as the years have passed, my view has shifted. Aging brings changes, some subtle and others striking. I’ve found that I am less visible, less needed, and, at times, less a part of the whirlwind of activity that used to surround me. The world doesn’t seem to revolve around me anymore, but rather I now watch it spin from a quieter place. This gradual shift has made me reevaluate what truly matters, what I most long for, and what feels like the greatest gift anyone could offer.

Time—simple, unadorned, and precious. The older I get, the more I realize how fleeting it is. When someone chooses to spend their time with me, it feels like a sacred exchange. It’s not about quantity, but about quality. A few uninterrupted moments, a shared conversation, or a walk together bring me more joy than a wrapped package ever could. Time says, “I value you. I choose to be with you.” It’s a gesture that speaks directly to the heart.

Presence is different from simply being in the same room. It’s about showing up fully, with attention and intention. When someone is truly present, I feel seen and heard. Their eyes meet mine, and I know I matter in that moment. In a world so full of distractions, presence is a rare and meaningful gift. It’s what makes even the smallest interactions deeply significant.

Connection is the thread that ties souls together. It is indeed a vital part of the human condition that seems to be becoming less a part of reality. It’s the laughter shared over old stories, the comfort in silence, the understanding that doesn’t need words. As I grow older, genuine connection feels increasingly vital. It reminds me I am not alone, that my existence matters to someone else. This connection lessens the ache of invisibility and fills the spaces where purpose sometimes fades.

When someone gives me their time, their presence, and their connection, I receive more than their company. I receive reassurance, love, and belonging. I receive the gift of being remembered, being needed, and being a part of something greater than myself. Even brief moments can be transformative—a phone call, a visit, or a heartfelt message can lift my spirits and remind me that I am, in fact, visible and important.

These gifts mean more to me now than anything material ever could. They are the foundation of joy and comfort in my life. They remind me that even as time passes and circumstances change, the bonds I share with others remain steadfast. When someone chooses to connect with me, to spend time with me, and to be truly present, I am reminded of my place in their world—and that is the greatest gift of all.