Time is a complex and multifaceted concept that extends far beyond the simple sequential accounting of our lives. Clocks and calendars provide a superficial representation of time, obscuring the profound and intricate truths about our individual, subjective experiences of reality.
In our youth, time seems to pass at a glacial pace. We are eager to move forward, to grow and burst through the obstacles that stand in our way. Parents, teachers, jobs, and homework all seem to slow us down, and we yearn to clear these hurdles as quickly as possible.
However, as we reach our 50s, time appears to accelerate at an astonishing rate. We find ourselves marveling at how quickly the sun sets on each day. Children we have known since birth seem to grow up in the blink of an eye, while we often fail to notice our own aging process.
Yet, the signs of aging are undeniable. Arthritis, hearing loss, and memory issues serve as inescapable reminders that our bodies – these precious, extraordinary vessels we inhabit – are not built for eternity. They begin to deteriorate, even if we don’t always “feel” our age, whatever that may mean.
Joni Mitchell’s famous song “The Circle Game” captures the cyclical nature of time, with its chorus:
“And the seasons they go round and round And the painted ponies go up and down We’re captive on the carousel of time We can’t return we can only look Behind from where we came And go round and round and round In the circle game.”
As a 23-year-old, Joni’s lyrics resonated with me and countless other young adults spanning three generations. We sat around campfires, tears welling up as we sang along to these wistful and evocative words.
Now, on the cusp of 70, I reflect on Joni’s poignant naivete with a smile. Time, I have come to believe, is not circular. Despite our varied and personal perceptions, time does not go round and round. We are not riding a carousel, but rather, we are astride the arrow of time, hurtling forward in one direction with no turning back.
As the Universe continues its infinite expansion, we ponder what the future holds – 5, 10, or 25 years from now. The truth is, we cannot know for certain. Despite our attempts to predict the future, and the occasional successes we may have, we are largely clueless. Life is filled with randomness and chaos, from the arbitrary nature of human behavior to the trajectory of a bullet, the rise of birthrates, the advancement of AI, and the looming threat of climate change.
While we may agree that nearly 70% of the Universe is comprised of dark energy, the nature of this mysterious force remains largely unknown. We hypothesize, experiment, and surmise our way forward, acknowledging the uncertainty that lies ahead. In the face of this unknowable future, we must embrace the present moment and reach out to our fellow travelers. At our best, we view one another through a lens of fellowship and empathy, holding hands and striving to maintain a sense of balance. We attempt to sing in harmony, appreciating the beauty when we find it. Riding the arrow of time with dignity and laughter is not merely a choice – it is our only option.
Before Shabbat 