We live in such an instant world. We want our news every hour of every day. We complained when we could not see the Olympics in real time. We want to get there… wherever that may be and quickly. Airport delays and traffic jams raise our blood pressure. We talk to one another using instant messaging with abbreviated words since we have no time to type the word in its entirety. We are so into the now! But do we live in the moment? Are we in such a hurry to get on with things that the present just passes by?
Holidays are there for a reason; to change our pace, to slow us down, to reflect and to stimulate our senses. Last weekend, I spent three nights in Rhodes Island with college friends and then with a neighbor. We were so into the moment… it was unbelievable how grand that all felt.
My college friends kept their cell phone in the kitchen drawer. We slept in, had a great breakfast, and ate out. I just sat and looked at their charming calm salt water pond and watched the fowl swim and fly by. No phone, no laptop, just me and the environment.
At my friend’s place I decided to stay overnight. We were so busy talking and sharing, we didn’t have time to make dinner! Again, we slept in and then went to the dock for clams, lobsters, and a spontaneous party with her sister and son.
For four days and three nights, I did not watch television, use a phone or computer and you know what? I survived! (Well, actually, I did peak twice at the television to learn what was happening with the PGA tour just to learn the Saturday and Sunday scores.) But I did not watch! I always watch the golf majors. I could not make a difference in the scores so I stayed in the moment. How good I felt when I returned home. Driving home I listened to classical music as not to break the calm spell. But like everyone else, when I came home WGBH came on and I watched Mystery. The relaxation spell was gone but the residue remains; with lots of renewed energy to tackle the week.
Getting away and into the moment does not need to be far or expensive. Just away from the daily distractions. Stop what you are so busy doing this instant and get into the moment. You will be surprised how wonderful it feels. And you know what? The children will be fine, the world will continue, and the Red Sox might even win!
Do you have an “in the moment” story to share?
AlwaysHarriet 