When Time Slips Away

I still remember the look in my father’s eyes last Christmas. I had hurriedly dropped off some gifts at my parents’ house and rushed back to work, promising I’d stay longer “next time.” But next time never came. Work, deadlines, and life’s endless errands always took priority.

Now it’s December again, and I find myself staring at an empty chair at the dining table, regretting every missed moment. It hits me hard: all the fancy gifts in the world couldn’t replace the warmth of simply being there with the people I love.

I’m not alone in feeling this. Bronnie Ware, a nurse who cared for patients in their final days, once recorded the top regrets of the dying. One that struck me was how many people (especially hardworking parents) wished they hadn’t spent so much time at the office – they missed their children’s youth and their partner’s companionship.

Another heartbreakingly common regret was letting friendships fade over the years. In Ware’s words, many had let golden friendships slip by, deeply regretting not giving those friendships the time and effort they deservedt. These lessons from those at life’s end echo in my heart now. They remind me that time is the one thing we can’t wrap in a box or buy in a store.

Presence Over Presents

Throughout the year, it’s easy to convince ourselves that material gifts can make up for our absence. We click add to cart, ship off a present with a nice card, and hope it says what we don’t take time to say in person. But deep down, we all know a truth we often avoid: the best present is your presence. Think about it – do you remember what gifts you received last year? Or do you remember who was sitting by your side, laughing over dinner or listening to you ramble on about your crazy boss?

I remember a moment with my son that stayed with me. I once asked him what he liked the most, expecting him to mention a toy or something fun. Instead, he said, “I like trains.” When I asked why, he replied, “Because on long train journeys we are all together, there are no distractions, and our family is happy.”

That answer said everything. It wasn’t about the train. It was about being present. And it brought tears to my eyes.

A Season for Second Chances

The beauty of December is that it’s not just the end of the year – it’s also a season of second chances and fresh starts. The festive air gives us courage to reach out and mend what might be broken. Whoever you love but haven’t given enough time to lately, now is the time.

Call that old friend you’ve been meaning to reconnect with. Visit your grandparents or that dear aunt who always sends you a holiday card even when you’re “too busy” to reply. Apologize and forgive; let go of whatever kept you apart. Remove the weight of those regrets and move forward with an open heart.

I know it’s not always easy. We might worry it’s too late, or fear an awkward reception – Will they understand? Did I wait too long? But take it from someone who has carried regret: it’s far worse to never try at all.

That first hello might be emotional or even tearful. That’s okay – tears can be healing. What matters is that you’re there, in the flesh or on the phone, saying, “You matter to me. I’m here now.”

Giving the Gift of Gratitude

This year, I chose to do something different. Instead of only saying “I’m sorry” or “I love you,” I decided to show my gratitude in a way that could be held, reread, and remembered. I created a Gratitude Award for my mom — words put into form — thanking her for always picking up my calls, for believing in me when I didn’t believe in myself, and for the comfort she gave without ever being asked. When I gave it to her, along with a long overdue embrace, she cried the softest, happiest tears. I knew then that this was more than a gesture. It was recognition.

That moment taught me something important: a Gratitude Award isn’t about the paper. It’s about pausing long enough to acknowledge someone’s quiet sacrifices and loud love, and saying thank you in a way that truly lands.

That’s why the Gratitude Awards available on our website matter so much. They help you turn feelings into words, and words into something meaningful. You don’t need to struggle to find the right phrasing or layout — you simply bring your heart, and the rest comes together.

Whether it’s for a mom, dad, spouse, friend, teacher, mentor, or anyone who shaped your life, a customized Gratitude Award allows you to honor them thoughtfully and intentionally. Because when gratitude is seen, felt, and remembered, it becomes a gift that lasts far longer than any season.

Take Action: Be Present, Truly Present

Reading this is only the beginning. Now is the moment to act. Don’t wait for “some day” to say what matters or to show you care. Reach out today. Make the call. Set the time. When you’re together, be truly present — put the phone away, listen fully, and let them feel that, in that moment, they are your priority.

This festive season, choose a gift that lasts longer than December. Surprise someone you love with a Gratitude Award —a simple yet powerful way to say, I see you, I appreciate you, and you matter to me. Make it personal. Say the things you’ve carried quietly in your heart.

As the year comes to a close, remember this: the strongest connections aren’t tied with ribbons or bows. They’re built through presence, time, and gratitude. So show up. Be there. And give the kind of gift that becomes a memory, not just a moment.Be present. Give gratitude.
👉 Click here for a customized Gratitude Award and honor someone who deserves to be seen.