Considered for a second the bulk of our lives' experiences—the ones that don't quite qualify as landmarks—do you think about it?
The time that passes without our awareness yet molds us into who we are now—seconds, minutes, and hours?
I mean those times when nothing much happens, when our lives are so full of activity that we fail to notice them.
I can't help but think about all the moments from the last year that didn't end up in my Instagram feed or in my yearly recap as I sip my coffee and reflect back on them.
The ordinary moments that were meaningful and beautiful in their own way.
The parts that, when put together, make up my life's complex tapestry.
Just think about it: we tend to pay more attention to the major life events like weddings, graduations, promotions, and birthdays.
We prepare for them, look forward to them, and rejoice when they happen.
Indeed, that is the case!
We should pay close attention to these landmarks because of how important they are.
Whereas, how are the in-between moments handled?
Those profoundly meaningful moments that don't lend themselves to being tweeted or shared on Facebook?
I usually have these kinds of thoughts while I'm on the go.
On my 30-minute train ride to work, I have the opportunity to witness the city's sunrise and gather my thoughts before the day's chaos starts.
I get to clear my mind and process everything that happened during the day on the walk home from the office.
Despite their seeming ordinariness, these are among my favorite moments.
They are the times when I am able to sit quietly with myself and think.
And what about the ordinary times spent with those we love?
For example, spending a Sunday afternoon watching a movie or preparing supper together?
Even though they aren't exciting, it is through these ordinary moments that our relationships are strengthened and memories are made.
Such moments bring a profound sense of being acknowledged, understood, and cherished.
These transitional times are the most important parts of our lives, I've realized.
These are the times when our lives take on a richer, more meaningful character.
These experiences form our identities and the way we view the world.
Still, they are easy for us to ignore or even take for granted.
Consequently, I hope you'll begin to value these times more highly.
Taking it easy and finding joy in the little things.
To note the morning light streaming through the blinds and the birdsong outside your window.
Enjoy every second spent with those you care about, no matter how mundane or unremarkable the activity may be.
Something mystical occurs when we learn to value these transitional times.
We start to perceive things from a new angle.
We start to notice the enchantment and beauty in the ordinary.
We start to delight in the smallest of pleasures and learn to value the little things in life.
My friends, that is the place where life's true beauty resides.
Not during the dramatic, eye-catching moments, but during the subtle, unremarkable ones.
Little things that happen all the time but yet make a lasting impression on us.
Hence, the next time you're doing the dishes, waiting in traffic, or in line, keep in mind that these aren't meaningless activities; they're essential to our survival.
Such times define us and provide direction for the rest of our lives.
Perhaps these transitional times will end up being your most treasured memories.
Remembering these times makes you happy.
Those times that are valued and treasured by you.
The things that truly enrich one's life.
I have a challenge for you as I finish up this post.
Over the next seven days, I want you to focus on the spaces in between.
Take note of the passing sunlight through the windows and the rustling of the leaves outside.
Even if it's not a thrilling moment, cherish the time you spend with loved ones.
As you look for the extraordinary, try to appreciate the ordinary.
I assure you, it's not far away. All you have to do is search.
What are some of your favorite moments in between?
And if you're feeling inspired, share them with me in the comments!
In what ways can you find joy in the mundane?
Please get in touch with me so we can talk about the things that truly matter in this world.
So, you just need to continue to be curious and attentive for further reflections on the beauty of the transitional moments until our paths intersect once more.
Till we meet again.
About the Creator
Dira
Whatever in mind can be as good as in write.
Day 4 of Quitting
If this is how sobriety feels, maybe it’s better to go through life a little buzzed… this, along with other hits like, I want to kill myself, I wish I was dead, and I’m going to throw myself off a bridge have been the only thoughts on rotation these past few days. I promise myself that if, in a month, I still feel like this (‘this’ meaning despondent, full of rage, and simultaneously numb) I can go back to smoking. Until mid-February though? Nicotine is off the table.
By sleepy drafts10 days ago in Longevity
How to Read More: 12 Book-ish Things to Help Clear Your To-Read List
If your to-read list keeps growing faster than you can turn pages, you’re not alone. Many book lovers dream of reading more, yet struggle to find the time, focus, or momentum to actually do it. Between busy schedules, digital distractions, and reading slumps, even the most enthusiastic readers can feel stuck. The good news? Reading more isn’t about speed or pressure—it’s about building habits that fit naturally into your life. Here are 12 book-ish, practical ways to finally start clearing that to-read list and rediscover the joy of reading. 1. Ditch the Guilt Around Unfinished Books Not every book is meant for you at this moment. If a title isn’t clicking after a fair try, give yourself permission to stop. Letting go of unread or half-read books creates mental space—and motivation—for books you’ll truly enjoy. 2. Read Multiple Books at Once Contrary to popular belief, reading several books simultaneously can boost your reading life. A novel for bedtime, a non-fiction book for mornings, and a short story collection for quick breaks allow you to read according to your mood and energy level. 3. Always Carry a Book (or E-Reader) Idle moments add up. Waiting in lines, commuting, or sitting between appointments can become reading time if you always have a book handy. Even 10 minutes a day can translate into dozens of finished books over a year. 4. Set a Daily Page Goal—Not a Time Goal Instead of saying “I’ll read for 30 minutes,” try “I’ll read 10 pages.” Page goals feel more achievable and measurable, helping you maintain consistency without feeling overwhelmed. 5. Replace Doom-Scrolling With Page-Turning Social media often steals reading time without us realizing it. Try a simple rule: read for 10 minutes before opening any social app. This small habit shift can dramatically increase your reading hours. 6. Create a Reading Ritual Rituals train your brain to associate reading with comfort. Whether it’s reading with morning tea, before bed, or during lunch breaks, attaching books to a routine makes reading automatic rather than optional. 7. Make Your To-Read List Work for You An endless list can feel intimidating. Break it into smaller categories like “Read This Month,” “Quick Reads,” or “Comfort Books.” Prioritizing makes the list motivating instead of stressful. 8. Embrace Audiobooks Without Shame Audiobooks count. Whether you’re driving, cooking, or exercising, listening to books keeps stories flowing through your life. Many readers find audiobooks help them finish more titles than print alone. 9. Read What Excites You—Not What You “Should” Read Reading isn’t a competition. If thrillers, romance, or fantasy excite you, read them proudly. Enjoyment is the strongest motivator for consistency, not literary prestige. 10. Join a Reading Community Book clubs, reading challenges, or online communities create accountability and excitement. Discussing books with others can reignite enthusiasm and introduce you to titles you might never pick up otherwise. 11. Track Your Reading Progress Seeing progress is powerful. Whether through a reading journal, app, or simple checklist, tracking books read reinforces your habit and gives a sense of accomplishment that fuels momentum. 12. Reread Old Favorites When motivation is low, return to a beloved book. Rereading reminds you why you fell in love with reading in the first place and often acts as a gateway back to new books. Reading More Is About Kindness, Not Discipline Clearing your to-read list doesn’t require superhuman focus or massive lifestyle changes. It’s about removing pressure, choosing joy, and building small habits that last. When reading becomes something you look forward to—rather than another task—it naturally finds its place in your day. Books aren’t meant to be conquered; they’re meant to be experienced. Start small, stay curious, and let stories meet you where you are. Your to-read list will shrink—not through force, but through love.
By Fiaz Ahmed Brohi2 days ago in Longevity
Comments (3)
It's so easy to get wrapped up in the big stuff, but those little, quiet moments are what make life feel real. Definitely gonna pay more attention to the small things now! Beautiful story!
Such a heartfelt story!
Beautiful story! Well written! Great job!