The Scarcest Resource that Comes in Infinite Supply

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Among the myriad of resources in this world there is one which comes in infinite supply, yet is the most precious one. It seems as if time cannot be exhausted, yet our opportunity to use it is severely limited by our lifespans. Although, this is an obvious statement, it appears that we often live as if we don't fully realize it.

One of the features of time is that it follows its natural flow. Conventionally, we think that it flows from past to present to future. In essence, however, it flows the other way around. The future becomes present and the present becomes past. It is very important to understand and realize this, so if in doubt check for yourself.

Having grasped this, we see that what we call past is already gone and there is nothing we can do about it. Hence, there is no use lamenting over it.

Furthermore, the flow is "natural" - it cannot be hurried. As much as we may want or try we cannot get to the future before it becomes present.

What we are left with is just this present, the only time-space we can occupy, the only time we really have. So, make sure you make the most of this NOW. 

I don't intend to tell you what is the right or wrong way to spend you time. This is not the point, besides we can hardly truly know, even after the fact. Although, it seems we see the effects of the choices we make, they immediately become causes producing new effects as time continually unfolds. Our very existence is the unfolding of time. If there was no time, we would not be here. If there was no time, nothing could happen. 

However, what I do urge you to do is to ask yourself:
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Who are the people I want to spend my time with?
What are the things I want to spend my time doing?
If I knew exactly when my time will run out, would I change how I spend it?

More important than getting answers is asking the questions. And don't settle with the responses that come to your mind keep asking yourself the questions and let them guide the way you spend your time.

This will help you live your life with a bit more intention and mindfulness. To borrow a phrase from Jon Kabat-Zinn, this is

"living your life as if it truly mattered, which, of course, it does". 

On the other hand, it is important not to get caught-up "losing" too much time trying to make your choices or thinking about possible alternatives. By being fully present NOW, you ensure you make the most of the only time you have for living - the present.

If any doubts or frustrations arise just remind yourself:

Whomever I meet - they are the right one.
Whatever happens - it is the only thing that could happen.
Whenever it happens - it happens at the right time. 

As Harvey MacKay said:

“Time is free, but it's priceless. You can't own it, but you can use it. You can't keep it, but you can spend it. Once you've lost it you can never get it back." 

The next time you have time to "spend", question the way you spend it. But don't "spend" too much time questioning.