On a road that stretches into the distance as far as the eye can see:

Me: This road seems endless. Can’t you move a bit faster?

Time: But when I’m gone I won’t be back.

Me: Yeah, but I want to see what’s around the next bend!

Time: What about the pleasantness of right here?

Me: Surely up ahead is better.

Time: Ok then, if you’ve made up your mind and you insist…

Me: Wait! Stop! Don’t go so fast! My parents are aging and my favorite pets are too! The kids are soon to be teenagers. My friends are moving away! I miss the routine I had before and now I have many more responsibilities…

Time: I tried to warn you. I have no hands for you to hold on to, nor feet to hold me in place. I pass steadily, like a heartbeat, pausing for no one. It is not I who moves so quickly. Rather, it is your impatience that blinds you to the delight of my present pace; your inability to value my steadiness that urges you to count the moments until I’m gone.

Me: Are you saying that looking forward to the future doesn’t have to mean despising the waiting? Instead, it can actually be the first stage of enjoying the moment one has been waiting for?

Time: Exactly! Learn this truth before I am no more, when instead of looking forward with delight you will only be able to look back with regret.

Me: Dear Time, walk with me and I will match my steps to yours.