When I reflect on the statement “tomorrow is a gift, not a promise,” I am drawn to two distinct yet congruent ways of thinking:
- There’s no guarantee that tomorrow will come, so we must make the most of today!
- Each new tomorrow on this earth is a valuable gift, so we must plan well and look to the future.
1) Make the most of today.
The first way of thinking embraces the Latin phrase carpe diem (‘seize the day’) or, more recently, the millennial mantra YOLO (‘You Only Live Once’). Both of these mottos or philosophies typically center around self and making big, bold moves rather than ‘playing it safe.’
But this first way of thinking can also encompass living selflessly, giving generously, and loving fervently. It’s all about making the most of today and this one life we are living, whether doing something for yourself or for others! Personally, I have long believed that reaching out to others and being kind and generous is the number one key to personal happiness and fulfillment. So, make the most of today!
As a popular meme circulating online suggests:
“Make that phone call. Have that conversation. Send that letter. Tell that person you love them. Tomorrow is a gift, not a promise.”
– Spiritual Inspiration
2) Look to the future.
The second way of thinking sees every new tomorrow as a priceless gift, one that shouldn’t be squandered in careless living. Whether that means pursuing higher education, setting big career goals, pursuing wise financial planning, or forming healthy habits and taking care of yourself, living with an eye to the future is of critical importance to those who see tomorrow as a gift to be cherished.
As some have said, including the iconic baseball great Mickey Mantle, “If I knew I was going to live this long, I’d have taken better care of myself.” So, take care of yourself—in education, career, retirement planning, and healthy living. It’s an investment you won’t regret!
Finally, I believe Mahatma Gandhi pulled these two modes of thinking together very well when he said “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.”
