" Present Tense ... "

Do you see the way that tree bends? 

Does it inspire?

Leaning out to catch the sun's rays

A lesson to be applied

Are you getting something out of this all encompassing trip?

You can spend your time alone, re digesting past regrets, oh

Or you can come to terms and realize

You're the only one who can't forgive yourself, oh

Makes much more sense to live in the present tense

Have you ideas on how this life ends? 

Checked your hands and studied the lines

Have you the belief that the road ahead ascends off into the light?

Or you can come to terms and realize

You're the only one who cannot forgive yourself, oh

Makes much more sense to live in the present tense

~ Pearl Jam ~ Present Tense ~

***

The lost art of living in the present.  Being present versus Being there.  The idea of being present encompasses the fundamental principles of yoga ... to simply “be” in the moment you are experiencing.  Easy enough ... so why then do  many lose sight of the “experience” before their eyes?

Perhaps it is because our society does not focus on the present tense.  We are always in preparation mode instead of enjoying today’s victory.  And when we finally stop to savor a milestone, it is by conscious measure, only to move on to the next one.

Truly, we are all familiar with the subject of presence ... wanting to be able to pay attention to what’s here versus dwelling on the past or longing for the future.

Just take this example ... you judge someone to be a certain way therefore you will expect them to behave that way.  Your expectations show up in the words you use, the tone of your voice and your body language.  Now, you are part of this person’s environment and your influence will set up an expectation, and other people will meet your expectation.  

Yet the problem is not their reaction but yours.  You responded based on the image you have of them.  So how do suspend judgement? ... you listen with the intention of understanding them by becoming fully present.  This brings your mind into this moment.  Now, in this relationship, each moment is new.  You have chosen to be present and surprise yourself by the potential that is within them instead.  

Mindfulness is a choice.  So how do we become more present in the present?  Start with believing that the most important thing in your life is what is happening right now, including what is inside you as well as outside.  

I have found that I must let go of the belief that I am irresponsible if I give time to myself, time to be alone and time to make contact with the Divine.  My responsibility to this human experience is to bring my whole self in to, fully and with a deep connection with my own being.

We are spiritual beings having a human experience.  And by being present, we allow the past memories, thoughts, feelings and worries to be left behind, therefore creating space ... a space for love, gratitude and miraculous transformations to take place ... a place where Divine manifestations occur.

the most precious gift we can offer others is our presence ... 

when mindfulness embraces those we love, they will bloom like flowers ... 

so wherever you are, be all there ॐ