avatarAisha Mustapha

Summary

The article emphasizes the importance of every minute in life, using examples from various scenarios to illustrate how time can significantly impact outcomes.

Abstract

The narrative begins with a personal interaction where the author learns the exact time from someone who initially gives an approximate time and later corrects it after being pressed for precision. This leads to a reflection on the value of each minute in different contexts: in medicine, where it can be the difference between life and death; in education, where it can determine whether one catches a lecture or not; and in exams, where additional minutes can affect results. The article underscores the importance of recognizing the significance of time, drawing attention to professions like firefighting and bomb disposal, where seconds can save lives and property.

Opinions

  • The author believes that every minute counts and should not be taken for granted.
  • There is an opinion that precision in time-keeping is crucial, as demonstrated by the initial exchange.
  • The article suggests that understanding the value of time is akin to understanding the value of life and success.
  • The author uses rhetorical questions and scenarios to convey the idea that time should be treated with the utmost importance.
  • The author implies that people often overlook the significance of small increments of time until confronted with a situation that highlights its true value.

The difference that matters

“What’s the time?” I asked. 4pm he replied. It seemed unlikely to be 4:00 exactly so I asked again. “3:52” he finally said. I asked why he took 8 minutes away from me and he laughed saying it doesn’t matter. I asked him if he were in an exams and was given the choice between submitting and having 8 more minutes to conclude his work which he would choose. He finally understood.

Every minute in life is important. In medicine, it makes the difference between life and death at times. In school, it makes the difference between getting or missing a lecture. During an exam, it makes the difference between success and failure. Better still, ask fire fighters or people that detonate bombs how many lives and properties have been saved due to last minute decisions.

So what’s the time?

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