Chris Green’s poem, “Here one minute, gone the next,” is a succinct yet powerful reflection on the impermanence of life and the importance of living in the present moment.
Through its concise structure and clear language, the poem conveys a profound message about the fragility of human existence and the significance of making the most of our time on this earth.
Full Poem: Here One Minute, Gone The Next
~ Here one minute, gone the next
Life is everything it seems
Live each moment like your last
Never give up on your dreams
Wake each day to something new
Offer up a helping hand
Smile at a perfect stranger
Help a weary one to stand
Count your blessings one and all
Find the joy in every day
Best foot forward with each step
Show the world you’re on your way
Actions have their consequences
Think of others it affects
Time is short and always moving
Here one minute, gone the next
— Author: Chris Green
The Ephemeral Nature of Life
The poem begins with the title, “Here one minute, gone the next,” immediately setting the tone for the central theme of transience. This title encapsulates the essence of life’s unpredictability and serves as a reminder that everything we hold dear can vanish in an instant. The brevity of the title itself mirrors the fleeting nature of life.
The opening stanza emphasizes the idea that life is fleeting and should be cherished. It encourages readers to embrace each moment as if it were their last, urging them not to take life for granted.
The lines “Live each moment like your last” and “Never give up on your dreams” underscore the importance of living with purpose and pursuing one’s aspirations with unwavering determination.
Gratitude in the Present: Counting Life’s Blessings
The poem’s call to “Count your blessings one and all” encourages gratitude and appreciation for the blessings in our lives, no matter how small they may seem. This sentiment aligns with the broader theme of living with mindfulness and embracing the present moment.
The subsequent stanzas offer practical advice on how to make the most of life. They suggest waking up to new experiences, extending kindness to others, and finding joy in everyday moments.
The lines “Offer up a helping hand” and “Smile at a perfect stranger” highlight the significance of human connection and compassion, reinforcing the idea that our actions have a ripple effect on those around us.
Chris Green’s Poetic Wisdom
The poem concludes with a poignant reminder of the brevity of life and the consequences of our actions. It prompts readers to consider the impact of their choices on others, reinforcing the idea that time is a precious and finite resource.
It is clear to anyone who reads it that “Here one minute, gone the next” encapsulates a profound philosophy of life.
It urges readers to reflect on their priorities, embrace each day with enthusiasm, and make a positive difference in the lives of others.
Chris Green’s poem serves as a poignant reminder that life is fleeting, and it encourages us to make the most of the time we have, both for our own fulfillment and for the betterment of the world around us.
— Read more from Chris Green here.
