Have you ever found yourself saying, "I'll enjoy life once I achieve this goal," or "I'll take time for myself when things settle down"? Lately, I've been contemplating this mindset while reading in Liu Cixin's "The Three-Body Problem" series.

As I've been reading I've found myself captivated not just by the storytelling, but by the profound themes woven throughout. While some might dismiss it as merely dark science fiction (or the latest Netflix book series to grab) reading TBP has given me one of the most beautiful and thought-provoking series I've read in recent history.

The books paint a vivid picture of humanity's dual nature – our capacity for both darkness and light. It's in this contrast that I've found myself reflecting deeply on one particular idea that has resonated with me:

"Make time for life, because life doesn't make time."

This simple concept has challenged my own perspective. Too often, I've caught myself postponing enjoyment, thinking, "When I achieve this, then I can enjoy that."

But what if we're approaching it all wrong? What if the key to a fulfilling life isn't waiting for the right moment, but rather creating those moments wherever we are?

The beauty of this idea lies in its universality. No matter our circumstances, we all have the power to find slivers of joy in our daily lives. It's not about having access to everything we desire, but about savoring what we do have. This concept challenges us to find enjoyment in the process, not just the outcome.

As I've let this idea simmer between reading the books, I've realized how often I've denied myself simple pleasures, thinking I hadn't "earned" them yet. But life isn't about constantly deferring gratification. It's about striking a balance between:

  1. Working towards our goals
  2. Appreciating the journey

And for as cliche as this sounds, it’s a message I’ve really needed to hear recently. It's helped me recognize that while I can't control everything, I can control how I choose to spend my time, and how I can respond to life’s many undulations.

I'm incredibly grateful to be in a position where I can contemplate these ideas. I recognize that not everyone has this luxury, and I've not always been in this position myself. However, I believe there's value in this message regardless of one's circumstances. Even in the most challenging times, finding small moments of joy can be a powerful act of resilience.

The Three-Body Problem series has reinforced for me the importance of emotional intelligence and mindfulness in how we approach life. It's about being present and finding meaning in our experiences, rather than always looking to the future for fulfillment.

I’m about to start the third book of the series (I like some time to pick at the themes between reads). I'm excited to see how (if?) Liu continues pulling this thread in Death’s End.

Regardless, I have some great questions to ask myself moving forward:

  • Where can I make more time for living?
  • What simple pleasures have I been denying myself?
  • How can I find more joy in my daily routines?

So take a moment today to do something you enjoy, no matter how small.

Leave a comment if any of this resonated with you.

With gratitude 🙇
–Jamey