Saturday, December 6th, 2025

Last night our region saw something we never want to see — multiple wrecks, lives changed, and families who woke up today facing a different reality than the one they went to bed with. These moments shake us, not just because of the tragedy itself, but because of how quickly everything can shift. One second. One choice. One distraction. And the whole world tilts.

In Toys Are Totems, I write about the importance of slowing down long enough to choose what truly matters before life chooses for you. Page 46 says it plain: when something starts pulling you faster than you can think — pause. Breathe. Reclaim your intention. That isn’t just about collecting. It’s about living.

That’s what today’s episode is about.

We’re all carrying stress. We’re all juggling too many things. Screens, schedules, obligations, expectations, and a world that wants us moving faster than our minds and hearts were designed to process. But none of that is worth more than making it home safe. None of that is worth taking your eyes off the road — literally or metaphorically.

So today, take a moment. Slow down. Be present. Pay attention to where you are, what you’re doing, and who you want to return home to.

Because nothing — nothing — is more important than that.

---

If this message resonates with you…

The full book Toys Are Totems goes deeper into reclaiming your spark, choosing what matters, and building a life rooted in intention instead of overwhelm.

👉 Grab the book on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FDTR461C

---

Stay connected with me:

🌐 Website: https://jimbumgardner.com/
🌐 Toys Are Totems: https://toysaretotems.com/
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jimbumgardner2022
▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AmpMultiMediaLLC

---

Now, Go Play!
– Jim (December 6th, 2025)