The Present Is The Gift

For the past year, I have been very self-reflective and introspective.  I have been doing the work of getting to the core of my issues.  It has not been a pretty journey.  As a matter of fact, it has been downright ugly.  While I do not like some of the things I see, I thank God that I am beginning to see myself as I truly am.  Flawed…but God’s treasured possession none the less.

This week has been all about acknowledging where I am.  In this space.  In this moment.  Not thinking about the past.  Not worrying about the future.  Focusing on where I am at this specific moment in time.  Which is difficult for me.  I generally focus on preparing myself for the moments that will come.  In my rush to be prepared for an uncertain future, I neglect to appreciate my present.

Life has reminded me that each second we have on this earth is precious.  While planning is great, slowing down and embracing our now has tremendous value as well.  Just indulge me as I take a deep breath and appreciate my here and now.  I am grateful that I can feel this cold tile beneath my feet as I type.  It means that the nerves in my feet are functioning appropriately.  I am grateful for the app on my phone that I just used to turn my heat on.  It means that my electric, gas, and cell phone bill have been paid in full.  I am grateful for the sound of Fitz’s water fountain running.  That means that my ears are working as they should.  I am thankful for the air that I am breathing.  My fingers that are typing.  My mind that is forming sentences so rapidly that my fingers cannot keep up.

I get it ya’ll.  Life is overwhelming.  Who has time to sit and think of all the things that we are grateful for?  I am hoping that you do.  Set a timer for 60 seconds and breathe.  For real.  Try it.  Step by step, I am retraining myself to appreciate simple moments.  Part of having an abundant life is recognizing the beauty in your everyday moments.  What a shame it would be to run this race of life and not take time to be fully present in our todays.  The small acts of obedience lead to peace like a river.  #wepreach