Give the Gift of Being Present

Web friends! Grab your cup of java and join me for a quick chat because I have something I want to share with you! I must confess that this little tidbit didn't originate with me but it's just too good to keep to myself... so lean in! Here's the low-down. If you are like me and find your mind always 2 or 3 steps ahead of what you are doing in the here and now, stop and simply BE PRESENT in what you are doing and with whom you are doing it. This is one very simple, but easily overlooked way that we can begin to live a fuller, more satisfying life, immediately. Don't you love a quick fix? :-) In our culture, we are expected to have the ability to multi-task, not only as a necessary qualification in order to land and retain a good job, but it is considered a praise-worthy ability. However, in building relationships, the practice of this habit robs us of quality time and produces shallow, unsatisfying experiences. Remember, as kids, begging Mom or Dad to "Watch me!" or "Play with me!"? and if they weren't really watching or were "multi-tasking" (i.e. talking on the phone, gabbing with the neighbor, etc.)while half-paying attention to the game or whatever we were playing, we would catch on quickly and continue to say, with increased zeal and volume, "Are you WATCHING me? Did you SEE that?!" "It's YOUR turn!!" :-) I know we're all guilty on this one but we need not despair! As long as there is breath, there is hope! As we become more aware and seek a fuller participation in our moments, and as we begin to really listen, to really watch, and to really be present, we will send a message that says "I value you and you are worth my undivided attention," while making memories that will be recalled with a fonder affection. Let your voicemail pick up that call while you take time to throw the ball with your son or to color with your graddaughter. Turn off the T.V. and listen as Grandpa tells that story, again. Be interested and even ask a question or two. It will make his day. :-). Take a few moments away from your computer screen to listen to your co-worker's heart as she asks for advice or just lend a listening ear. These, and many more, are the moments that build our lives and write our epitaph, one moment at a time! One final thought. Making a decision to be present in our moments isn't accomplished in a single determination. It's a daily refreshing that we will find as we frequent our knowing place (see blog titled It's 3:15 AM The Knowing Place) to remember what we truly value in our hearts. May God meet us there and grant us grace that we will have eyes to see and ears to hear the opportunities to make a difference in our moments. Still Climbing, Cher