How we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives. What we do with this hour, and that one, is what we are doing. A schedule defends from chaos and whim. It is a net for catching days. It is a scaffolding on which a worker can stand and labor with both hands at sections of time. A schedule is a mock-up of reason and order-willed, faked, and so brought into being; it is a peace and a haven set into the wreck of time; it is a lifeboat on which you find yourself, decades later, still living. Each day is the same, so you remember the series afterward as a blurred and powerful pattern.
Annie Dillard emphasizes the importance of how we organize our daily activities, as they ultimately shape our entire lives. Each hour we spend contributes to our overall existence, and having a structured schedule can provide a sense of stability amidst the unpredictability of life. A well-planned agenda acts as a protective barrier against chaos, helping us to capture and utilize our days effectively.
Moreover, Dillard illustrates a schedule as a framework that supports our endeavors, allowing us to focus on meaningful work. It serves as a refuge in the chaotic nature of time, facilitating a more intentional way of living. Over time, the routine of our days creates a cohesive memory, forming a significant narrative that shapes our life's journey.
