Hoarding Happiness: Why Grandma Says You Should Be a Time Scrooge (No Guilt Allowed!)
Life Wisdom from Gramps
Hey,
Gather ‘round the virtual hearth, ‘cause your old man’s [Grandpa Mtonda from Malawi] got a story to tell. Not about some dusty war or bad investment in Beanie Babies (trust me, those things were never going to moon). No, this yarn’s about something far more valuable: your time.
You see, these days, folks throw their minutes around like confetti at a carnival. They squeeze social calls into grocery lines, answer emails quicker than a goldfish forget its lunch, and fill every spare second with some digital distraction or another. Meanwhile, happiness, that sly little critter, slips through their fingers, leaving them dusty-souled and wondering where the good times went.
But here’s the secret, whispered down through generations like a bootleg recipe for apple pie: be selfish with your time. Not greedy, mind you, just discerning. Like a diamond appraiser, learn to spot the genuine connections, the moments that make your heart skip a Charleston, and guard them fiercer than a squirrel with a pecan stash.
Let the energy vampires and drama llamas wait their turn. Say “NO” with the confidence of a cat refusing a bath. Leave the FOMO (fear of missing out) folks to their pixelated parties. Your time, darling, is a Michelin-starred reservation, not a greasy diner open 24/7.
Now, some might call this “me-ism,” but I call it “sanity maintenance.” By protecting your time, you protect your energy, your joy, your very zest for life. That doesn’t mean ignoring all responsibilities, of course. There’s work to be done, bills to pay, and casserole emergencies to attend to (unless the recipe's mine, then just call the fire department). But in between, carve out spaces for what truly nourishes you. Read that forgotten book under the willow tree. Hike with a buddy who actually listens. Bake a cake so spectacular it makes angels weep.
Because here’s the thing: when you fill your own cup first, everyone around you benefits. You become a better friend, a more patient parent, a colleague who doesn’t snap after three consecutive paper cuts. Your happiness becomes a lighthouse, guiding others to safe harbor.
So go forth, be a time Scrooge, a hoarder of moments, a curator of joy. And remember, Grandma’s always here to cheer you on, as long as you promise to visit with something sweeter than just your lovely face. After all, even grandmas gotta negotiate for their happiness!
With love and a sprinkle of cynicism,
Grandpa (the OG Time Scrooge)
P.S. If anyone tries to guilt you about setting boundaries, tell them Grandma gave you permission. Then throw confetti in their face. Just kidding… maybe.