In This Moment

As the stress of the pandemic and politics continue I have found it helpful pay attention to when worrying thoughts begin. And then I practice something I call

In this moment

When I notice worries or negative thoughts whirling in my mind I intentionally tune into my body and surroundings. When I do, I notice that in this moment the sun is shining through the windows. And in this moment I am feeling no pain in my body. As far as I know all of my loved ones are safe and well in this moment too. I am blessed now, now, and now.

“The present moment is filled with joy and happiness. If you are attentive, you will see it.”
― Thich Nhat Hanh, Peace Is Every Step: The Path of Mindfulness in Everyday Life

Yesterday as I hiked at French Regional Park and noticed that I was spending far too much time thinking, I intentionally slowed down my walk and paid close attention to how my body felt walking in the woods. I began to notice joy seeping up through the soles of my feet. With each step I felt lighter as I began to notice beauty and well being in this moment.

Soon I found myself filled with gratitude and repeating, “Thank you. Thank you. Thank you,” to the trees and ground beneath my feet.

Still the world goes on and many are hoping that “things” return to normal soon. I don’t think a return to normal is what we should hope for and work for. I would prefer that we keep working to transform our world into a place where kindness, fairness, love, and nature are more highly valued than money, things, or popularity.

A Dream of Trees

There is a thing in me that dreamed of trees,
A quiet house, some green and modest acres
A little way from every troubling town,
A little way from factories, schools, laments.
I would have time, I thought, and time to spare,
With only streams and birds for company,
To build out of my life a few wild stanzas.
And then it came to me, that so was death,
A little way away from everywhere.

There is a thing in me still dreams of trees.
But let it go. Homesick for moderation,
Half the world’s artists shrink or fall away.
If any find solution, let him tell it.
Meanwhile I bend my heart toward lamentation
Where, as the times implore our true involvement,
The blades of every crisis point the way.

I would it were not so, but so it is.
Who ever made music of a mild day?

   — Mary Oliver

Spread a little kindness today to those you see. Wear your mask in public places. Stay socially distanced. Limit your time in stores and public areas. Wash your hands. And don’t get together with others even though you think “it will be okay.” Our healthcare workers are drowning in this crisis. The only way things are going to get better in the short term is for those of us who can stay home, to stay home.

The way I get through each day is with plenty of presence pauses interspersed with listening to and noticing what is happening around me. A little news, a lot of creative time, and a little presence is the recipe that’s keeping me sane.

How are you in this moment?

May you walk in beauty.