We often hear the phrase, “Life can change in the blink of an eye,” but until you’re standing on the edge of that change, it’s difficult to fully appreciate how quickly everything you know can be upended. On September 2nd, my husband and I faced one of those moments that reminded me just how fragile life can be. That day, while I was out of town for a 2-day conference and 3 days of recording the audiobook for Iron Will, my husband had a stroke. The events of that night and the following morning forever changed how I view time, relationships, and the plans we make for “someday.”
While I was in California, my husband was alone at home. At some point in the evening, he collapsed in our family room, unable to move or call for help. He spent the entire night on the floor, alone, without the ability to reach out to anyone. I can’t describe the anguish I feel when I think about those long hours he endured by himself.
The next morning, after several unanswered calls, I finally heard his voice. But instead of his usual, warm greeting, all he could manage was one word: “Ambulance.” My heart sank, my world stopped. It took just one word and a split second for everything to change. In that moment, before panic set in, my instinct took over. I immediately called 911 and sent an ambulance to our home. I remember dialing our neighbor in the meantime, asking if she could rush over and see if she could help get into the house. The first responders had to break down our door to reach him.
By the grace of quick actions and incredible professionals, my husband is here with me today, recovering. But that night was a lesson I will carry with me forever—life doesn’t wait, and neither should we. One minute you’re moving forward, working toward your goals, and the next, everything can change.
In the hustle of everyday life, we often get caught up in work, responsibilities, and the endless to-do lists. But those moments of connection with the people we love—the ones we often take for granted—are truly the most precious parts of life. We forget that time is finite and fleeting, and that the routine we fall into can be upended in an instant.
Before this happened, I never truly realized how much time I spent planning for the future, for “someday.” But what if “someday” doesn’t come the way we imagine it will? My husband and I have always enjoyed bike riding on weekends—those peaceful rides gave us time to reconnect, to talk about everything from our dreams to the simple joys of life. Now, it may be a long time before we can enjoy those bike rides again, if ever.
It’s a stark reminder that the things we love—whether it’s a passion, an adventure, or simply a conversation—shouldn’t be put off until an elusive “someday.” Life has a way of throwing us curveballs when we least expect it, and the time to act is always now. If you’ve been delaying something, waiting for the perfect moment to do it, I encourage you to reconsider. Whether it’s taking that trip you’ve been dreaming about, learning a new skill, getting healthier, or simply spending more time with the people who matter most—don’t wait. We may never have the luxury of the perfect moment.
This experience has given me a deeper sense of gratitude for the moments we have—both big and small. Every day with my husband is a gift now, and we’re learning to appreciate even the smallest things, like the quiet moments we spend together at home. We don’t need grand gestures or perfect circumstances to experience joy and connection. It’s in the simple moments—the ones we often overlook—where life’s greatest treasures are hidden.
It’s also a reminder that life is fragile. We often operate as if we’ll have endless tomorrows, but the truth is, none of us know what the future holds. The best we can do is live fully in the present, savor the moments we have with the people we care about, and embrace life as it comes.
And perhaps most importantly, tell the people in your life how much they mean to you. Don’t wait until it’s too late to express your love, your appreciation, or your gratitude. None of us know how long we have, and the chance to share those words might slip away when we least expect it. Hug your loved ones a little tighter and a little longer, call someone you’ve been meaning to reconnect with, and make time for the relationships that fill your heart.
My husband’s stroke taught me many lessons, but perhaps the greatest one is this: We only get one life, and it can change in the blink of an eye. We can’t control everything that happens, but we can control how we react to what happened, cherish the time we have and the people we share it with. So, I ask you to reflect on your own life—what are you waiting for? What have you been putting off for “someday”? Whether it’s a goal, a dream, or just time spent with the people you love, don’t wait. Start today, this moment right now, because this is all we are guaranteed.
Life changes in an instant, but we can choose to be fully present and appreciate the love, the laughter, and the moments we share right now. Let’s make the most of the time we have, because someday may not come when we expect it.
If you found this article interesting or helpful, please consider subscribing to my Blog. You’ll receive regular updates and exclusive content straight into your inbox. And if you know someone who could benefit from this message, please feel free to forward it to them.
Your support helps us continue to share valuable insights and resources. Thank you!
