Time permeates every aspect of our existence, yet we rarely pause to acknowledge its presence. Much like a fish swimming in water, we navigate through life enveloped by time, seldom conscious of its omnipresence. This metaphor invites us to explore the nature of time and our relationship with it.

The Unseen Medium

In his commencement speech “This Is Water,” David Foster Wallace shares a parable: two young fish swim past an older fish who greets them with, “Morning, boys. How’s the water?” The young fish swim on before one asks the other, “What the hell is water?” The New Yorker​

This story illustrates how the most pervasive elements of our environment often go unnoticed. Time, like water for fish, is a constant backdrop to our lives—integral yet invisible.​

The Default Setting

Wallace emphasizes that our default state is one of unconsciousness, where we operate on autopilot, oblivious to the fundamental realities surrounding us. Time becomes a silent current, guiding our actions and decisions without our awareness. We adhere to schedules, celebrate milestones, and age, all while rarely contemplating the essence of time itself.​The New Yorker

Gaining Perspective

To truly understand time, we must step outside our routine perceptions. Just as a fish might only comprehend water when removed from it, we often recognize the value of time during moments of disruption—illness, loss, or significant life changes. These instances jolt us into awareness, highlighting how time shapes our experiences.​

Cultivating Awareness

Recognizing time’s omnipresence encourages a more mindful approach to life. By acknowledging time as a finite resource, we can make deliberate choices about how we spend it. This awareness fosters gratitude, intentionality, and a deeper connection to the present moment.​

Conclusion

Time, much like water to a fish, surrounds us constantly, influencing our lives in profound ways. By becoming conscious of this ever-present force, we can navigate our existence with greater clarity and purpose, ensuring that we don’t merely drift through life but engage with it fully.