“How time flies…” is perhaps the phrase most used everywhere these days. In cities and towns, villages, buses, train rides and lunch meetings, people start conversations with this very line, which is usually then recipocrated by vigorous nods and smiles, or a dramatic exclaimation of “I know!”
Then, the real conversations begin, each person reminiscing the year that has been. Stories of old become fresh once again. Emotions pour like coffee on white, porcelain mugs, like rain on a hot and humid day.
Some stories end up in tears, others end up in laughter. And after that long session of discussion on year 2008, one leaves the table knowing that some day, someone will bring up the story of a group of people laughing and crying over the year that has been.
Perhaps, it is not about the individual stories passing around at the table. Perhaps, it is more about the people that care enough for another to listen and talk to another, regardless of how stupid the conversation can be. It is about people that care enough to drive miles, walk under the scorching sun or take time to just talk and listen to the past.
Sometimes, it is not the past that makes everyone sit up and listen. Sometimes, it is the future and plans that gets people jumping with excitement or gripping with fear. Whatever it is that people are looking forward to, it becomes especially worthy because someone else knows about it, waits upon it and give you a high-five or a hug over it.
No one says “How time flies…” without relating it to another person. It is a phrase that proclaims relationships, connections and above all, love for one another. It probably means more of “I spent too little time with you” or “I wish I told you more about how much I care for you” than what it says of itself.
Hence, overused the phrase may be, “How time flies…” should never be taken at its face value. It is the first brick to building a bridge, which no other phrase will work better. Especially in December.
