Life is short. It’s a truth universally acknowledged yet seldom dwelt upon, especially in youth. In the blissful ignorance of our younger years, time seems boundless, an endless horizon stretching far beyond the present moment. Only as we grow older, as the sharp edges of reality begin to cut through this illusion, does the brevity of our existence truly strike home. Kalpesh Desai’s poem ‘By the Time I Was Ready’ taps into this often-overlooked reality, exploring the fleeting nature of time and the importance of patience.
In just four lines, Desai weaves a narrative that is as heartbreaking as it is insightful. The poem encapsulates the weight of missed opportunities and the inexorable passage of time. At its core, it reminds us of the tension between life’s relentless pace and the human desire to wait for the perfect moment.
The Elusiveness of Readiness
Life is a series of moments, but readiness is often a mirage. How often have we waited for the “right time” to act, only to find that the moment has passed us by? Desai’s poem captures this universal experience, focusing on the temporal and emotional distance between the narrator and their lover. By the time the narrator is “ready,” the opportunity to connect has slipped away, lost to the currents of time.
This simple yet important observation resonates deeply with readers. It reflects an essential truth about human nature: We are creatures of hesitation. The notion of readiness is a double-edged sword. While preparation can lead to greater success, overthinking and waiting too long can cause us to miss what truly matters.
Desai’s poem, with its sparse and evocative language, mirrors our own experiences. We’ve all had moments when, looking back, we realize we weren’t fully present, weren’t ready, or simply didn’t act when it mattered most.
The Price of Impatience in a Fast-Paced World
Modern society doesn’t make cultivating patience easy. In an era defined by instant gratification—where meals are delivered at the touch of a button and messages are sent across the globe in seconds—waiting feels like an antiquated skill. Many of us live in a constant state of rush, hoping to squeeze as much as possible into our short lives. Ironically, this pace often leaves us feeling like we’ve missed out on the things that truly matter.
Desai’s poem gently critiques this mindset. It reminds us that while some things in life demand action, others require waiting. Relationships, personal growth, and deep connections cannot be rushed. The poem’s narrative also highlights an even more painful reality: sometimes, even when we wait patiently, life throws unexpected challenges that derail our plans.
Life’s Curveballs: The Art of Acceptance
One of the most striking aspects of Desai’s work is its acknowledgment of life’s inherent unpredictability. Metaphorical curveballs—those unforeseen events that disrupt our carefully laid plans—are an inevitable part of existence. One of life's greatest challenges is learning to accept and adapt to these disruptions.
In ‘By the Time I Was Ready,’ this unpredictability is implied in the vast expanse of time that separates the narrator and their lover. Despite the narrator’s readiness, it’s too late; something has shifted irreparably. The emotional weight of this realization speaks to the universal human experience of regret and longing for a second chance.
This element of the poem invites readers to reflect on their own lives. How many opportunities have been lost because we waited too long? How often have we blamed external circumstances for our inaction, only to realize the responsibility lies within us?
The Value of Patience and Perseverance
Desai’s poem offers a bittersweet lesson: good things come to those who are patient, but patience alone is not enough. It must be paired with an awareness of the present and the willingness to act when the moment calls for it. This delicate balance—between waiting and doing, preparation and spontaneity—is at the heart of a well-lived life.
As you reflect on the themes of this poem, consider the moments in your own life where hesitation or impatience played a role. What have you learned from those experiences? And how can you apply those lessons to make the most of your time?
Ultimately, the poem’s message is clear: live with intention, cultivate patience, and be ready for life’s curveballs. While time is fleeting, it is also rich with opportunities—if only we have enough courage.
By Javier