In First Things First, author Stephen Covey with A. Roger Merrill and Rebecca R. Merrill make a point that appears almost in passing, but deserves some consideration.  “We’re stewards of our time, our talents, our resources.”

Essentially, we’re care-takers of all we have.  We are not owners, but we nonetheless are responsible for the good use of our resources.  In the end, we are responsible to something greater than ourselves whether God, The Planet, Society, Humankind, The Universe, whatever framework fits your worldview.

This notion may be disheartening to some.  “My time and my life are my own and I will do what I want with them.  How can anyone claim that my time is not my own?”  This is rational, but comes entirely from ego.  There is power in considering the alternative.

This of this type of stewardship as a call to action; a challenge to be your best in the world.  If not for yourself, then do it for (insert world view).  True fulfillment, happiness and meaning in life seem to come from getting outside of our own needs and desires and come from service to others, to a larger vision, to something greater than ourselves.

As stewards of time and resources we have a responsibility to care for them, to use them wisely, to not squander them.  Your life, then, is a daring and grand responsibility.  There need not be a marquee or your name in lights if that is not your calling.  It means that what you do with your time and talents is a great work on whatever stage you play.  If you are the only one in the audience, live your last days knowing that you made the most of all you were given.