Billy Joel’s iconic song, “This is the Time,” has a way of weaving itself into the fabric of our lives. Whether it’s played at graduations, weddings, or during quiet moments of reflection, its lyrics evoke memories and emotions that transcend time. As we listen, we’re reminded to cherish the present, for it’s fleeting and precious.
As a father of two teenagers, I’ve come to appreciate the clichés I once dismissed. “They grow up too fast.” Indeed, they do. The days may feel long, but the years are short. And the truest of them all, they may outgrow my lap but they will never outgrow my heart.
Last weekend, my daughter and I attended the iHeart Radio Jingle Ball in Los Angeles. The 4 ½ show included ten musical acts and multiple guest celebrities. But what truly mattered was the shared experience—the smiles, the excitement, and the bond we forged.
My daughter and I made a pact: no matter how far apart life takes us, we’ll attend at least one concert together every year. It’s our tradition—a promise to continue creating memories while enjoying our time together. We’ll remember these moments, knowing they’re fleeting but forever etched in our hearts.
Meanwhile, my son and I bond over sports. We cheer for my beloved New York teams—the Mets, the Jets, the Rangers—despite their history of heartbreak.
For the past two years, our Sundays have followed a familiar rhythm. We settle into Buffalo Wild Wings as the only Jets fans in the entire restaurant. The Jets take the field, and we brace ourselves for the inevitable rollercoaster of emotions. The Jets, let’s face it, are not exactly a fun team to watch. Their performance swings between mediocre and downright painful. But none of that matters in those moments. The food may be average, the service spotty, but this a place where father and son share more than just buffalo wings.
As the game unfolds, it becomes background noise. Our attention shifts from the field to each other. We chat, we laugh, and we crack jokes. The camaraderie is as much a part of the experience as the interceptions and fumbles. And when my son playfully asks, “Why did you have to be a Jets fan, Dad?” I smile. Our shared sports misery has become a cherished tradition—one that binds us even when the team disappoints.
Sometimes, in the midst of a particularly lackluster play, I lean over and whisper, “Imagine the day the Jets win the Super Bowl.” We both nervously chuckle, hoping it happens at least once in our lifetime. But that’s the beauty of being a fan—it’s about faith, loyalty, and the thrill of what could be. Even if victory remains elusive, our shared anticipation keeps the flame alive. If the Jets ever make it to the Super Bowl, you can be sure we will be watching the game together.
When my kids were young, I juggled a demanding profession that often kept me away from home. Quality time became my currency—I treasured every stolen moment. But as they’ve grown, I’ve realized that quantity matters too.
These teenage years are fleeting, and I’m determined to blend both quality and quantity. Work will always be there, deadlines looming, but the dinner table conversations won’t wait. I’m a stickler for eating at the dinner table. Despite an occasional eyeroll, I think they enjoy it too. I hope dinners together at the table become a cherished memory and tradition they continue as they have a family of their own one day.
Work-life balance is a personal equation, unique to each of us. Yet, as parents, we face an unwavering truth: our children will leave our homes sooner than we expect. They’ll spread their wings, venture into the world, and build their own lives. And while work may stretch into our 60s, these precious moments with our children won’t. Let’s cherish the Sunday mornings, the laughter, and the shared sports misery. For this is the time—the time to be present, the time to love, and the time to create memories that will last far beyond the encore.
In the end, Billy Joel’s lyrics serve as a poignant reminder that life is made up of individual moments that become memories. Hold on to these moments, create traditions, and savor the beauty of now. For this is the time—the time to remember, the time to love, and the time to live.
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A live performance of Billy Joel playing "This is the Time" with John Mayer.
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