Originally published on June 2, 2013 on www.aliciacamlibelphd.com/greatreads
I sat down this morning on my deck and ate my breakfast. It is a breezy morning, the wind chimes were singing and the birds were chirping. It was the first time, since I can remember, that I sat alone on the deck and just relaxed for a minute or two. As I sat there, I realized that the planted herbs in the pots next to me have gotten quite large and that the rhododendrons, which were blooming just a few days ago, were dropping to the ground. I then realized that in the hustle and bustle of life, I had not stopped to admire them. I initially wanted to blame it on the time of the year, school is winding down, I have two children playing sports, a dance recital, end of the year parties, picnics, etc. but then reminded myself that although some times of the year are more hectic than others, I was to blame for not taking a few minutes a day to stop and smell the roses. As I sat on the deck, I took a few conscious moments to really stop and pay attention to my surroundings, in the far distance I was able to hear the circadas, I heard the rustling of the leaves, I was able to smell the peppermint from the small herb garden next to me. In a world that is so focused on producing, keeping up with the Jonses, and just juggling life, I think it is a good reminder that we all need to take a few moments everyday to just stop and be mindful of what is around us. For even in our busiest moments, we can be fully present and aware of what is happening.In the literature on mindfulness, which is proving to not only be stress reducing but healing to the body and mind, the focus is on the here and now. Meditation and enjoying an activity where you get into the zone, are other ways to be mindful and present but there is a real gift to enjoying the moment.So as I post pictures on facebook that I just found of my two oldest children at ages 3 and 1, I asked myself, "where did the time go?" As I blog for the first time in 10 months, I ask myself the same question. As I look back upon the last few years I am beginning to wonder if I really enjoyed the time and was as present and mindful as I could have been. I am sure I am not alone. However, with this new found realization, I am going to make an effort to be more mindful and aware. I urge you to do the same.Take a few minutes, wherever you are, and focus. Focus on your breath, focus on the smells and colors, focus on the sounds of the wind or your children laughing. Take time to let it all sink in. Be mindful, be aware, and enjoy, for it is really in the blink of an eye that it all flies by!
