Engaging the Present #2
You are, in fact, here now. However, you may have difficulty pulling your thoughts out of the future or the past back into the present.
Thoughts of the past can be soothing, enjoyable and orienting. Or, they can also bring regret, grudges and sadness to the forefront. Depends on what you’re thinking about. Likewise, the future can be full of hope, eager anticipation and dreams. But, anxiety, worries and fear may also dominate. Again, the focus of your attention makes a world of difference.
Now, think of times you get lost in the present moment. When you do something you love, the present is enjoyable. Getting caught up in a ballgame, a conversation or a good book can almost make time disappear. Aside from these rapturous moments, how do you find the present when your thoughts of the past or the future are causing you angst?
About 99% of the time the thing that you fear (future) or regret (past) is not happening right now. It’s only happening in your mind. For instance, I have just come through a season of fundraising with many people involved in key events. In off hours, I find myself troubleshooting and worrying about potential problems. This is not entirely useless, but at some point it is bothersome. Then I think, “The event is not happening right now. It literally is not. The conversation I am playing out in my head is only in my head. Return to the present moment.”
So, how do you find the present?
Breathe. Find your breath. Stay with it.
Pray. Specifically, pray to receive peace in this moment.
Listen. You’ll be surprised how this brings you back to the present.
Meditate. Almost any method will work to lower your blood pressure and help you find the present.
Of course, there are other transports back to the present, but these are prominent. Finding the present takes practice. But, it’s worth the effort.
Worth Repeating
The present is the point at which time touches eternity.
-C.S. Lewis
