Every four years, we get a gift – just like clockwork. Solar clockwork, that is.
We get that extra day of Feb. 29.
This year I’m realizing that this extra 24 hours is what many of us have been desiring for decades: more time. “If only there were more than 24 hours in a day,” many of us have lamented.
Well, here it is. Not only several additional hours – an entire supplementary day.
And for the first time, I’ve begun to reflect on what I should do with it. Who knows what I did with the 18 other February 29ths that occurred throughout my lifetime?
So maybe now would be a good time to pause and reflect on life. How about you? Do you want in on this deal, too? How will you use this bonus day?
Will we waste it on mindless activities, or will we make it count for something more?
Before we go any further, though, let me clarify one particular issue regarding this “free day.” If you need that day just to go on about your business, living life as best you can – and that’s your priority right now – I say, “Fine.” Sometimes, that’s all we can do. That’s all we need to do. Just continue. In fact, I wrote a column about that a few weeks ago.
Or if you want to take that extra 24 hours and spend them on something that some folks might regard as frivolous – because you need a break or just because you want to – I say that’s fine, too. I’m not drawing any lines in the sand. I’m just contemplating. So here goes ….
The Bible tells us that every day is a gift from God, and we should use it wisely. Psalm 90:12 says, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Ephesians 5:15-16 says, “Be very careful, then, how you live – not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity ….”
With that in mind, I’ve rounded up some practical suggestions for how we might make the most of our day and use it as a catalyst for positive change.
– Spend more time with God. The extra day is a perfect opportunity to deepen our relationships with the Source of all wisdom and joy. We can spend more time in prayer, reading the Bible, meditating on his promises or listening to worship music.
– Serve others. The extra day is also an excellent chance to show God’s love to others and help make a difference. We can volunteer at a local charity, aid a neighbor in need, visit a sick friend or donate to a worthy cause. We can also express our gratitude to someone who has blessed us or offer forgiveness to someone who hurt us. Acts of kindness, no matter how small, have a ripple effect.
– Learn something new. The extra day is a wonderful opportunity to expand our knowledge, skills or interests. We can read a book, watch a documentary or listen to a podcast. We can begin a new hobby or tackle a new sport. We can also challenge ourselves to solve a puzzle, riddle or trivia question.
– Enjoy God’s creation. The extra day is a superb occasion to appreciate the beauty and wonder of nature. Depending on the weather, we can possibly go for a walk or on a picnic. We can visit a park. We can also admire the sunrise, sunset, stars or early spring flowers.
As we ponder the possibilities, let’s not forget to embrace the spontaneity of the moment. Whatever other ideas come into our heads that day, let’s follow them with open hearts. Sometimes, the most meaningful experiences arise when we allow ourselves to be guided by whispers of inspiration.
Whatever our final choice, let’s do it with gratefulness and joy. Remember: The extra day is not just a random occurrence, but a divine blessing. Let’s make every day count and – yes – let’s absolutely leap into life.
———————————————————
Sallie Rose Hollis lives in Ruston and retired from Louisiana Tech as an associate professor of journalism and the assistant director of the News Bureau. She can be contacted at sallierose@mail.com.
