Time to smell the roses

  • Published
  • By Col. Steve Smith
  • 88th Communications Group commander
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio --  Have you ever taken the time to stop what you're doing and look around you? If you haven't, then you need to do so and do it soon. 

Too many times we're so wrapped up in today; we forget to "stop and smell the roses."  But you say, "I don't have time! I have suspenses to meet; I'm making plans for this special event or conference I need to attend." You stay late at the office, you run home and get a quick dinner and then off to soccer or football practice with your children. You finally get home and then it's homework time and then time to get them ready for bed. When you finally see your spouse, you collapse from exhaustion. If you didn't have enough pressures already, then it's your turn to deploy. OUCH!....more stress on you, the family and friends. 

If you don't slow down now and then, someday you are going to find out that you missed out on a lot of fun and personal experiences. Time to share, time to live...time you will never get back. 

Take the time this weekend and ask yourself, "What do I like to do? What are my hobbies?" And don't say work! What are those things that make you happy and giggle inside? What do you like to do? For me, I like to play golf. I'm not good at it, but I enjoy it. I also like to work in the yard. I find it very relaxing. I also like to sit around the dinner table with my family. Family is very important to me. As I tell my kids, "Friends come and go, but family is forever." Whatever it is that relaxes you and makes you happy...find it and do it soon! 

Over my 26 years in the Air Force, I've made the mistake and missed out on some very special moments...moments I will never get back. I realize now there are times I didn't "stop and smell the roses," and I regret it. Job...mission...family...personal sanity.  These are very difficult things to balance, but it's important you do. It's good for the mission, your health (physical and mental) and good for your family. 

Our Air Force mission demands we be ready anytime, anywhere. Ready to serve our nation's call with integrity, service before self and excellence in all we do. It's important you balance your time effectively and take that time and use it wisely. 

So my challenge: Don't let it happen to you. Take off work now and then; spend it wisely. Find those things that let you relax and make you laugh. If you have a family, cherish that time with them and savor every moment. Don't wait and find it's too late. Take the time and smell the roses!