Summer time is a great time to really put into practice LIVING IN THE PRESENT. In Minnesota it is particularly poignant to “soak up the sun” and enjoy beautiful weather since we experience such a contrast of cold and grayness in the winter. Here are points I would like to mention with experiences from my own life.
1. NOTICE THE DELIGHTFUL DETAILS
Yesterday was a perfect example of the joy that comes LIVING IN THE PRESENT. I love nature and I love to walk. Each day our beagle looks forward to a walk in the late afternoon. My husband and I took the dog to a beautiful wooded park nearby. Because I had noticed the delightful details in the woods on our walk the day before, I had observed that there was an abundance of ripening wild blackberries, something that we would have missed, had I not paid attention.
So this time, we brought with us a couple ziploc bags in anticipation. Sure enough, the berries were beginning to ripen! As we walked, we developed a keen eye to notice the scraggly plants that were bearing fruit. Blackberries begin their formation as bright red berries, then gradually turn to a deep purple (see photo). We lost ourselves in the moment as we paused to pick berries along the path. We came away with berry-stained fingers. I found myself thanking God for the beautiful weather and this delightful experience to enjoy His peaceful creation. Living in the present and noticing the delightful details allowed us to experience less stress and an abundance of JOY.
2. TRULY LISTEN
That evening, we were invited to the home of dear friends. (We shared our berry harvest with them.) LIVING IN THE PRESENT also means truly listening to people when they talk. We so enjoyed our time together as we shared the gift of truly listening to each other in our conversation. It is such a satisfying experience to block out thoughts and worries that can preoccupy us, and truly focus on what the person is saying. This is an important component of LIVING IN THE PRESENT that can bless not only your life, but the lives of those you touch throughout your day – truly listen.
3. UNDERSTAND THAT WE HAVE ALL WE NEED FOR TODAY
Another principle that I have been trying to truly understand and implement in my life is the fact that God provides all that we need for TODAY. There is no point in becoming anxious about the future, and fretting about circumstances that may or may not happen tomorrow. All this does is rob us of our joy for today! I love the verse in the Bible – Matthew 6:34 – which says, “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” The truth of that always makes me chuckle! God gives enough grace for today. And tomorrow, He will provide a fresh supply of grace for tomorrow. When I really comprehend this truth, I experience much more peace, freedom, and joy – and I can live in the present.
Sherrie
Blooming Boomers 