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mar's Desk

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Marcoujor: Today Is A Gift

9/16/2015

27 Comments

 
Picturemarcoujor
Consider the following quote by B. Olatunji:
 
"Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. And today? Today is a gift. That's why we call it the present."
 
I remember studying Abraham Maslow's psychological pinciples and hierarchy of needs in the 1980s. he stressed that a big part of mental wellness is the ability to focus on the present moment.
 
Today, this concept is called 'mindfulness'.

It took me many decades to actively tune in to what's going on around me - as well as becoming aware of my thoughts and feelings in the present and ongoingly.
 
In a younger form, I alternated between dwelling on how I could have done things differently or worrying about what tomorrow would bring.
 
Through being mindful of the 'here and now', I've become a better listener. I don't want to miss out on what I'm experiencing at the time.  Added benefits are increased energy, heightened mental clarity and even the ability to make more thoughtful decisions.
 
This past weekend, I spent a rejuvenating day at Stone Harbor, New Jersey with my sister.

I breathed in the glorious ocean air, splashed in my bare feet in the cool waters of the Atlantic Ocean and could not help but observe a range of human behaviors.
 
I'll share two very different scenarios ~ as 'people watching' has become my second favorite life hobby.
 
I happened upon the most magical site.  A young lady was totally present- peacefully arranging sand over rocks, as gentle ripples washed on the shore.  Her mom was serenely sitting a few feet away on the rocks - an obvious role model for mindfulness.
Picture
In total contrast, I encountered an obese American family sitting sluggishly on beach chairs - in silence with snacks strewn around them. It was disconcerting to see the husband digging a coffin - sized hole in the sand with a garden shovel.
 
My mind raced at this sight...
 
I wondered if this guy would have a cardiac arrest before he completed the job?
 
Then I wondered what the purpose of the job was? Hmmm...??
 
I'll never know the answer to these questions... Had I been in his wife's flip flops, I would have skedaddled away with my teenagers in a completely opposite direction instead of snacking on processed foods and sitting like a proverbial duck - just sayin...! 
 
As I moved on, I pondered the difference between these two families.  I could imagine Mom saying: "It takes all kinds".
 
Animal Watching is my favorite hobby... 
 
I've become a more observant driver.  In other words, I have slowed down dramatically over the years.
 
As a result, I've encountered some amazing sights along life's journey.
 
Recently, as I was driving down my own street, I was entranced by my discovery.  I pulled off to the side to observe the beauty of these deer, who had meandered into our neighborhood from a close by river and nature trail.
 
I was honored that these gentle creatures allowed me to stand close enough to share this scene with you. I quietly thanked them for the opportunity.

Picture

Before you go

In closing, Congratulations are in order for my friend and fellow writer, Vicki Warner who has reached a milestone of 10K reads within a month on the WarnerWords website. She also has a brand new E-book available as a gift to new subscribers. If you're not familiar with her work, you're in for a treat.
 
Check out her most recent post and some other wonderful Weebly reads:

  • Vinaya Ghimire: In the Land we Live via WarnerWords
  • Indie Biz: Why Pixabay for Photographers and Pics? via flashPress

Until next week, wishing you peace.

Hugs, 

mar
27 Comments
Mike
9/16/2015 11:23:11 am

Hello Maria. What a peaceful presentation you offer. The little girl in the sand and the deer are serene in their setting. There is a lesson to be learned here. We should all slow down. I am glad you set some time away to get to the shoreline with your sister. That has to be special.

Reply
Maria link
9/16/2015 09:45:54 pm

Dear Mike,
I often learn my best lessons from kids and animals.
Thanks for stopping by and giving peace a chance.
Hugs, Maria

Reply
paula link
9/16/2015 12:27:59 pm

Maria......"Mindfulness." I like that concept. I too took many years to get there. I always blamed it on the craziness of raising 4 children, working and going to school, simultaneously. It was difficult for me to even be aware of whether I was in today, yesterday or tomorrow! LOL
This is a lovely work of art, dear friend. Thank you for always sharing wise and wonderful words. I do appreciate it.

Reply
Maria link
9/16/2015 09:55:20 pm

Dear Paula,
I'm happy we're both in the state of mindfulness now.
It's always great when you stop by.
Love ya,
Maria

Reply
Martie link
9/16/2015 02:19:06 pm

It take all kinds to make a world, indeed! I, too, can amuse myself for hours by merely watching people. I believe human behavior is healthy food for thought.

Those deer seem to be quite at home in your neighborhood. They must have sense your compassion, that's why they allowed you to take a picture.

Thanks for another lovely post, Mar, and for the links to more reeds in Weebly :)

Reply
Maria link
9/16/2015 09:52:46 pm

Dear Martie,
I'm not surprised you're a people watcher too.
Thanks for your sweet comment ~ I felt honored to stand so close to such majesty.
Love and hugs,
mar

Reply
Vicki
9/16/2015 03:39:27 pm

Dear Mareer,
It's wonderful to think of you, living in the moment (s) on that tranquil looking beach. People watching can be very educational! I love the rocks there too. Looks as though you had some overcast weather, and some blue sky too. It must have been really nice for both of you.
Thanks so much for the mentions!
Love and hugs,
Vickster

Reply
Maria link
9/16/2015 10:00:52 pm

Our day was mostly sunny, dear Vicki~ Mom did send some rain here and there, which was beautiful as well.
I hope everyone has an opportunity to check out your new ebook~ I found it to be filled with valuable money saving ideas ~ excellent work!
Love and hugs, mareer

Reply
Kummiehello
9/16/2015 04:02:22 pm

Hello dear Mar
Mindfulness and being in the present is such a worthy goal and I am happy you have found these two gifts which truly bring peace in our hearts. I love watching the deer and the sky's above...they move slowly with intentions only for the moment at hand.God bless you always.
Love and hugs
Kimmie

Reply
Maria link
9/16/2015 10:03:54 pm

Thanks for your supportive and insightful remarks, dear Kimmie.
Wishing you and yours a peaceful week.
Love, Maria

Reply
Sunshine
9/16/2015 04:18:54 pm

Hi MM,
"Be here now." I try to practice that daily, but I need a lot more practice. Thank you for the reminder. 😊
Congrats to Vicki 🎉 I do appreciate her blog!

Reply
Maria link
9/16/2015 10:07:24 pm

You are very welcome, dear Sunshine~ we'll take turns reminding each other.
I know Vicki appreciates your support~ as I do.
Love, MM

Reply
Vicki link
9/17/2015 03:27:36 pm

Sunshine - thanks so much for your support and always kind words!
Hugs to you

Karen
9/16/2015 05:06:45 pm

Beautiful reflection, Maria.

Wonderfully written...

Makes me reflect

Reply
Maria link
9/16/2015 10:09:30 pm

It means the world to see you here, Karen.
You're always on my mind.
Love you so much, Maria

Reply
femmeflashpoint link
9/16/2015 08:17:04 pm

Prof. Mahreer,

This is a beautiful post. If it has to do with surf and sand and DEER I'm all in!

I dunno if it takes "all kinds" but it seems to be what we're stuck with, lol. Sometimes that's good and sometimes not so much ...

Thanks for sharing your beach time with us!

femme

Reply
Maria link
9/16/2015 10:13:09 pm

Your comments make me smile, dear femme. Mom always had a way of putting a positive spin on life in general~ just like you.
Thanks a million for all you do.
Love you, mar

Reply
Angie
9/17/2015 06:02:27 pm

This is a peace I long for and I NEED. Unfortunately, I don't take the time yet to get there. I recognize glimpses of it occasionally... : )

Beautiful article, Maria...

~Angie

Reply
Maria link
9/20/2015 08:21:13 am

Dear Angie,
Glad this got you thinking. Wishing you countless opportunities to practice mindfulness in the days to come.
Have a peaceful Sunday. Hugs, Maria

Reply
Shauna
9/18/2015 08:21:42 pm

You obviously had a very peaceful, relaxing, reflective weekend along the Jersey shore, Mar. Then to be blessed by two beautiful deer in your neighborhood! I'm sure the vision of the little girl and those graceful animals put a smile on your face and dancing memories in your heart! Those visions will be forever present.

Reply
Maria link
9/20/2015 08:23:40 am

Your comments are so true, dear Sha.
I so enjoyed your recent poetry~ wonderful to see your muse back.
Love you, mar

Reply
Genna East
9/18/2015 08:47:22 pm

Maria, I admire your "presence" and mindfulness of the rewards of life. I think that with each step we take toward realizing this, people, themselves become more present to us in who they are and how they feel about life. They are not blurs on a passing landscape, but individuals with stories -- some admirable, inspiring, giving and present, some not. You have such a gift, Maria. Thank you for sharing it with us. Hugs, my friend.

Reply
Maria link
9/20/2015 08:27:21 am

Dear Genna,
Thanks for adding your insights to this comment stream. I totally agree with you.
I am enjoying the powerful poems inspired by your stunning entry.
Enjoy a peaceful Sunday. Hugs, Maria

Reply
Theresa
9/20/2015 02:33:03 pm

Dear Maria,

What lovely reflections you have presented here. I am a people watcher too and we can learn so much about life in doing such no doubt. Our sweet Lord God reminds us of this very thing too, when He tells us to not worry about tomorrow. Yes, each day is a special gift. Thank you for sharing your photos. What a special treat seeing the deer! I see them a lot around here, but they are so fast and are gone in seconds LOL. I'm reminded of that song with the lyrics, "Slow down, you move to fast."

Peace and much love always,

Theresa

Reply
Maria link
9/21/2015 07:54:05 am

I love that 'groovy' song too, dear Theresa.
Thanks for your wise and inspiring comments~ always great to see you.
Have a peaceful week.
Love,
Maria

Reply
Gail Sobotkin
9/21/2015 08:29:02 pm

Dear Maria,
As one who practices mindfulness, especially on walks at the ocean or in nature, I could easily relate to this post.
The photo of the little girl making such mindful connection with sand and rock was awesome.
So glad you spent a rejuvenating day with your sister.
Love and Hugs,
Gail

Reply
Maria link
9/22/2015 06:45:02 am

Dear Gail,
You've taught me much about mindfulness~ especially by introducing me to walking labyrinths.
I thought of you and our rejuvenating weekend in Cape May when at the shore this peaceful day.
Thanks for your visit and have a lovely day.
Love and hugs, Maria

Reply



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    Marcoujor

    Welcome to my desk...

    I am a work in progress, so a rule of thumb is to expect the unexpected every week!

    Pull up a comfy chair and make yourself at home.

    Thank you,

    mar  



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  • Home
  • BOOK SHOP
    • Kylie's Stories
    • Other books by Maria Jordan >
      • Mysterious & Miraculous Book I - News and Reviews
  • BLOGS
    • mar's Desk
    • Inspiration Station
    • Poetic Ponderings
    • marcoujor on Hubpages
  • I Recommend...
  • Contact Me