This article is from the book "Nothing Special - Living Zen" and is part of a volume of selections in the collection "Mountains are Mountains and Rivers are Rivers - Applying Eastern Techniques to Everyday Life" edited by Ilana Rabinowitz. I have a friend who practises Zen Buddhism and has loaned me this book to read as I am always trying to find peace in my hectic, over-extended daily life. I find myself turning to selections in this book when I need some time for reflection. It is soothing and inspirational at the same time. As is a visit to my friend when I need some advice or some "back to earth" grounding.
"Every moment in life is absolute in itself. There is nothing other than this present moment; there is no past; there is no future; there is nothing but this. So when we don't pay attention to each little thing, we miss the whole thing." For me, this is the most important quote in the article. How many moments do people miss focussed on past resentments or experiences or running around in circles trying to accomplish too many tasks at the same time? It is difficult to enjoy a beautiful sunset, a leisurely walk around the block, or a dinner with a friend when we are not paying attention to what is going on right in front of us.
Living in the present, "direct, experiential realization through meditation and dharma practice" (Wikipedia), is one of the main tenets of Zen Buddhism. Although I do believe that learning about our place in the history of the world, remembering past events and experiences with family members and friends, and thinking ahead to future plans and goals have their place, if we spend too much time in the past or future, new memories and experiences will not be enjoyed to their full extent.
My children both play the violin and I have been to numerous recitals and concerts to hear them play. Each time, I am so focussed on taking pictures and video of their performance, that I entirely miss the musical experience and enjoyment of the moment. Sure, I have the video to go back to, but it is not the same. Consider listening to a CD of a favourite performer or watching a music video. Is it the same as attending a live performance? The excitement and connection is not there - it can only be attained in the present moment, that is during the live performance.
How many times do we "multitask", trying to complete all the items on our self-imposed "to-do-list" and miss important moments with our children or family? Have you caught yourself telling your child, "not right now, I'm busy"? But, there is only one "right now" for them. If you miss too many of these opportunities, your child will become an adult before you know it and you will not have shared these meaningful experiences.
I am sure we can all find examples in our daily lives where we have missed attending to the present, the here and now, and realized its importance much later. A reminder of this goes a long way in inspiring me to watch out for these moments, to let go of the past, not worry about the future, and just enjoy the present. A great thought as I begin the new year, 2010!
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