In October of 2022, my brother and I were driving home from a speaking event when I realized it wouldn’t be very far out of the way to visit a widow friend that I hadn’t seen in a few years. I knew my brother would be eager to get home to his family, but I broached the subject anyway and was happy that he agreed to stop. She was blessed that we took the time to visit so I knew we made the right decision.

Last May, my friend let me know she sent a package for my birthday but that she had fallen and hit her head while at the post office. She was sore but thought she’d be OK. That was the last I heard from her. After a month of not being able to get hold of her via phone or email, I heard from her son that his mom had had a stroke. The other day, I found out that she passed away a week before Christmas.

I say it often, but it is true: We don’t know that we have tomorrow. I’m thankful that I answered the phone whenever my friend called. I’m glad that I stopped to see her when God laid it on my heart. Only He knew it would be the last time I would have that opportunity.

I confess that there are times someone comes to my mind and I don’t reach out because I’m busy or tired or whatever, but I want to be faithful. I don’t want to have regrets when people I could have spent time with are no longer here.

The Gaither Vocal Band sang a song called “Love Them While We Can.” Although the focus was on elderly parents, I encourage you to love each person that God places in your life and value them while you’re able. Ask God to show you someone who could use some encouragement and fit time into your schedule to get together with that person. Even if they seem young and healthy (or old and healthy), you will never regret making someone’s day by letting them know that they are important to you.