![]() 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. 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. Before you goIn 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: 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.
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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
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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.
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Vicki
9/16/2015 03:39:27 pm
Dear Mareer,
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Our day was mostly sunny, dear Vicki~ Mom did send some rain here and there, which was beautiful as well.
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Kummiehello
9/16/2015 04:02:22 pm
Hello dear Mar
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Sunshine
9/16/2015 04:18:54 pm
Hi MM,
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Karen
9/16/2015 05:06:45 pm
Beautiful reflection, Maria.
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9/16/2015 08:17:04 pm
Prof. Mahreer,
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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... : )
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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.
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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.
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Theresa
9/20/2015 02:33:03 pm
Dear Maria,
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Gail Sobotkin
9/21/2015 08:29:02 pm
Dear Maria,
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Dear Gail,
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