Being Fully Present

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it’s all too easy to get caught up in the noise of our thoughts and the distractions of our surroundings. God knows I've had my own struggles with this over the past year.  

We find ourselves worrying about the future, replaying the past, or thinking about the endless to-do lists that never seem to diminish. However, the truth is that the key to feeling fully alive lies in our ability to immerse ourselves in the present moment. 

In his influential book Be Here Now, Ram Dass emphasizes the transformative power of presence with his inspiring declaration: 

"The most important thing is to be here now. When we are fully engaged in the present moment, we liberate ourselves from the chains of the past and the anxieties of the future. Being here now allows us to experience life in its fullness, to connect deeply with ourselves and others, and to truly recognize the beauty in every moment. In essence, embracing the present transforms our understanding of life from a series of tasks and obligations to a vibrant and enriching journey."

The Bible echoes this sentiment beautifully. In Matthew 6:34, we are reminded of the words of Jesus: "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." 

This passage encourages us to release the burdens of future anxieties and immerse ourselves in the current moment. It invites us to acknowledge that while planning and preparing are important, they should not overshadow the beauty and richness of today. 

When we engage with the present, we cultivate a deeper awareness and appreciation for life. 

Eckhart Tolle, in his transformative work The Power of Now, points out: 

"Realize deeply that the present moment is all you ever have. Make the Now the primary focus of your life." 

This powerful message urges us to shift our attention away from distractions and to truly experience the here and now. Only by anchoring ourselves in the present can we fully connect with ourselves, others, and the world around us.

Being present allows us to savor the small moments—the warmth of the sun on our skin, the laughter of friends, the beauty of nature, or the flavor of our food. It provides the space for genuine interactions, deep breathing, and moments of stillness that can ground us amidst the chaos of life. 

When we fully engage in the moment, we are not just alive but vibrantly alive. We feel, we sense, we love, and we connect.

So, how can we foster this practice of being present? 

Dedicate a few minutes each day to sit quietly and focus solely on your breath or the sensations in your body. This practice trains your mind to anchor in the present moment.

Take a walk outdoors and immerse yourself in your surroundings. Notice the details—the colors, sounds, and smells. Let nature fully engage your senses.  Don't put in any earphones to listen to music; let the experience of what's around you be your guide. 

Set boundaries with technology. Allocate specific times to check emails or social media, and during other times, turn your attention to the people or tasks at hand.  I have wasted more time "doom-scrolling" on social media than I care to admit.  

In our fast-paced culture, we often rush through activities. Try slowing down, whether savoring a meal or taking your time with a conversation.  And don't forget the importance of being in community with others as you do. 

May these practices weave mindfulness into the fabric of our daily routines. May we awaken to the present and discover a richer, more fulfilling, and profoundly alive life. 

May the grace and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with us all, now and forever. Amen.