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One Wild and Precious Life

By
Real Estate Agent with Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899

I recently came across a question by Mary Oliver:
“Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”

It stopped me in my tracks.

Time has a way of quietly moving forward, days turning into weeks, weeks into years, until suddenly we realize just how quickly it all passes. And in that realization comes something powerful: awareness. A gentle nudge to pause, reflect, and ask ourselves if we are truly living with intention.

What do I want to do with my time?
Who do I want to spend it with?
What moments do I want to create, remember, and hold close?

For me, the answer is clear.

I want to slow down enough to truly notice life… to stop and smell the roses more often. To be fully present with my family and friends, the people who fill my life with love, laughter, and meaning.

And in my work, I want to be intentional as well. I want to spend my time with clients where I know I can truly make a difference, helping them navigate one of life’s biggest decisions, whether they’re buying a home or selling one. Because it’s never just about real estate… it’s about people, their stories, and the next chapter of their lives.

It’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of life, the routines, the responsibilities. But this question invites something deeper, it calls us to be present, to be purposeful, and to choose meaning over motion.

Our lives are not measured just in years, but in moments, moments of love, connection, growth, and even challenge.

So today, I’m asking myself that same question…
and choosing to live the answer a little more intentionally.

Because this life, this one, wild and precious life, is too meaningful to live by default.

What about you?
How do you want to spend your time?

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I specialize in Listing and Selling homes in the NW Austin Area. I use my experience to guide clients through the process, whether selling or buying. It’s a beautiful thing when your career and a passion come together. I love what I do!

 

Comments(12)

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Roy Kelley
Retired - Gaithersburg, MD

Good Monday morning, Dorie. Your message is a good reminder that all of us should enjoy every special moment.

Apr 13, 2026 05:03 AM
Nina Hollander, Broker
Coldwell Banker Realty - Charlotte, NC
Your Greater Charlotte Real Estate Broker

Good morning, Dorie... as we get older this question becomes even more important. It's also why I'm heading down the road to retiring... as much as I've loved my years in real estate and serving my clients, at this stage of my life it's no longer where I really want to spend whatever time I have left. I've toyed with the idea of retiring for a while, but clearly I wasn't ready. Now I am... when you know, you know.

Apr 13, 2026 05:19 AM
Wayne Martin
Wayne M Martin - Oswego, IL
Real Estate Broker - Retired

Good morning Dorie. What works for one does not work for all. So you have to do it your way without regret. As Nina said, when you know you know what right for you. Enjoy your day.

Apr 13, 2026 05:27 AM
Sham Reddy CRS
Howard Hanna RE Services, Dayton, OH - Dayton, OH
CRS

Thanks for sharing a beautiful blog Dorie!!! Love this phrase!!!

Our lives are not measured just in years, but in moments, moments of love, connection, growth, and even challenge.

Apr 13, 2026 05:36 AM
Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518
Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc - Walhalla, SC
Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc.

This is a thoughtful reminder that applies to both life and business. It’s easy to get caught up in the daily pace, especially in real estate where there is always something demanding attention. Taking a moment to reflect on how we spend our time brings clarity to what truly matters, both personally and professionally, and helps us stay grounded in purpose rather than just activity.

The connection you made between intentional living and serving clients is especially meaningful. When we approach our work with that level of awareness, it changes the experience for everyone involved. Real estate becomes less about transactions and more about guiding people through important life moments. That perspective builds stronger relationships and, over time, creates a business rooted in trust and genuine impact.

Apr 13, 2026 05:42 AM
Patricia Feager
Appraisal Review Board, Denton County, TX - Flower Mound, TX
Licensed to April 2027

Dorie Dillard Austin TX - I'm not surprised to read this great essay from you. It takes time to heal from death of a loved one, and major health issues too. You're at a stage in your life where wisdom flows and it won't quit.

Apr 13, 2026 05:52 AM
Lawrence "Larry" & Sheila Agranoff. Cell: 631-805-4400
The Top Team @ Charles Rutenberg Realty 255 Executive Dr, Plainview NY 11803 - Plainview, NY
Long Island Condo and Home Specialists
I want to spend my time making a difference where I can and appreciating the everyday moments along the way. Beautiful message here Dorie! 
Apr 13, 2026 05:59 AM
Jeffrey DiMuria 321.223.6253 Waves Realty
Waves Realty - Melbourne, FL
Florida Space Coast Homes

I look at someone like Charlie Kirk, who had a very short time on earth, but said and did so much during those few years. It is not the time you spend, but how you spend your time.

Apr 13, 2026 06:42 AM
George Souto
George Souto NMLS #65149 - Middletown, CT
Your Connecticut Mortgage Expert

Dorie I do not plan on there being "WILD" in the precious time I have left.  But I do plan on lots of quality time with those closest to me, and doing the things I enjoy most.

Apr 13, 2026 09:01 AM
Kathy Streib
Cypress, TX
Retired Home Stager/Redesign

Hi Dorie- I love every single word in your post. Why is it that it takes many of us getting older to realize this?  I love how you're choosing to focus on what you want to do and with whom you want to be. I know family is important to you, as are your friends and traveling. 

I don't miss any chance I have to spend quality time with my family, friends and of course...Larry. They are what is important to me.

Apr 13, 2026 12:06 PM
Joan Cox, Retired Broker/Owner
Denver, CO
Enjoying Every Day to Its Fullest!

Dorie, what am I doing with my wild life?  Packing and planning!  Two weeks and one day until I move out.  Less than one month and off to Portugal.

Apr 13, 2026 12:41 PM
Brian England
Ambrose Realty Management LLC - Gilbert, AZ
MBA, GRI, REALTOR® Real Estate in East Valley AZ

I love that you are choosing to live your answer a little more intentionally, and I feel that I do the same!

Apr 14, 2026 06:45 AM