Chasing the Elusive Hours: What I Wish I Could Do More Every Day

Chasing the Elusive Hours: What I Wish I Could Do More Every Day

The ticking clock is both a friend and a foe, offering twenty-four golden hours yet slipping away like grains of sand through my fingers. As the sun sets each day, I find myself yearning for more—more moments, more fulfilment, more of what truly matters.

A Time-Honoured Desire

There was a time when the concept of ‘more’ was measured by material gains—academic accolades, professional milestones, and financial security. But as the years have added their gentle creases to my face and wisdom to my soul, I have realised that my deepest yearning is for something far less tangible but infinitely more precious.

1. Conversations That Matter

I wish I could spend more time in unhurried conversations—with my wife, my son, and most of all, my grandkids. Their innocent eyes brim with curiosity, their laughter echoes with untainted joy, and their tiny fingers grasp at life with an excitement that reignites my own. To sit with them, to hear their babbling turn into words, to watch their mind bloom—this is a treasure no wealth can buy.

Similarly, I miss those long, meaningful discussions I once had as a Principal, where ideas and aspirations flowed freely. The echo of those debates and heartfelt exchanges still lingers in my mind, nudging me to recreate them whenever possible.

2. The Symphony of My Soul: Music

If I could, I would lose myself in music every single day. My harmonium and keyboard beckon me, whispering the melodies of bygone days when I led choirs, trained voices, and compiled hymnbooks. Mukesh’s melancholic tunes, Jim Reeves’ soothing voice, and the healing ragas of Hindustani classical music—each note is a balm, each rhythm a heartbeat. Yet, in the rush of daily life, these melodies often become faint echoes instead of the symphony I long for.

3. The Written Word—My Eternal Companion

Writing is not just a passion; it is my sanctuary. Whether penning down my thoughts for a blog, reminiscing about childhood struggles, or crafting verses that mirror my experiences, I wish I could do it more. The joy of weaving words into narratives, of painting emotions through phrases, and of immortalising thoughts on paper is unparalleled. Alas, the practicalities of life often rob me of this luxury.

4. The Open Road and the Whispers of Nature

The call of the road, the scent of earth after rain, the hush of the mountains—how I long to heed them more often! Whether cycling through bylanes, driving through the countryside, or simply taking a stroll under a canopy of stars, I crave more of these moments. The wind against my face, the symphony of rustling leaves, and the endless horizon—nature is a silent poet, and I wish I had more time to read its verses.

5. Giving Back—Guiding and Mentoring

Having spent decades in education, I find immense satisfaction in guiding young minds. If I could, I would dedicate more hours to mentoring students, training teachers, and sharing the insights life has gifted me. Even in retirement, my passion for education remains undiminished, but the opportunities to actively contribute are often scarce.

The Reality of ‘More’

The truth, however, is that time remains indifferent to our desires. The key, perhaps, is not in finding ‘more’ time but in making better use of what we have. Each moment spent in meaningful pursuit is a victory against time’s relentless march.

As I ponder over this, I remind myself that life’s beauty lies not in its length but in its depth. If I can embrace music, cherish conversations, pen my thoughts, and breathe in the world around me—then, even in fleeting moments, I have lived fully.

And perhaps, just perhaps, that is ‘more’ than enough.