The Present is a Gift

The present is a gift that most of us forget to open. In order to be present, we must set aside our worries about tomorrow and our stories from the past. We must open our minds and hearts to the surroundings that are before us right now. Being aware and in touch with the people and things around us requires action. It takes a commitment to hear, see, and feel our connection to the world, making sure we don't get so caught up in one aspect that all else is forgotten. 

When walking in nature it is relatively easy to remain open to all the smells, sounds, and sights. We are able to look at nature with an openness, as if seeing it for the first time. We can take in the grandeur of the trees, the sweet smell of the earth and plants, and the songs of the birds. 

When walking through the forest, we don't judge the trees because the bark of one trunk is rougher or smoother than another. We don't tell the robin that its song is not as musical as the blackbird.  We enjoy the variety of color and shape of the plant leaves without calling one better than another. We accept each part of nature just as it is. 

We are able to quiet the mental chatter that tries to pull us into the past or future. We are in the present moment while walking through a forest or a field of flowers. Our senses are open to taking in all that Mother Nature offers. We are fully available to the present moment. All cares and worries are set aside momentarily while we bask in the bliss of the perfect time that is now.

If we can escape from the judging mind while in nature, it may not be too idealistic to believe we can do the same with people. Perhaps we can see the perfection that each person has within him. We can recognize the basic goodness in each other. We can be present and authentic with our fellow beings.