Missed it
Last summer, while walking to one of my favorite places, the Ballard Locks, I noticed a lovely water feature in the garden that I’d not “seen” before. I’d walked by it numerous times, but missed it, totally. Even though I use these walks as a time to slow down and take in my surroundings, I’d completely missed this gem.
I’ve noticed other places around town that I’ve completely missed, too. And conversations–well, there are times that it’s not just a flagging memory that is at work. I allow myself to be distracted. Then I strain to catch the thread of the conversation.
There are so many things I’ve missed in life. I continually struggle to hold my attention in the present moment, sometimes with greater success than others. But the moments I’ve missed could–if translated to money–probably make a dent in the national debt.
It’s one of those things that’s simple to say, challenging to do. Noticing, listening, being present to each moment is like holding on to a fist full of sand–the tighter I squeeze, the more sand escapes.
In these tough times, the one thing we all have to give is our presence, our attention. Events like the earthquake in Haiti easily remind us how fleeting life is and how all we really have is the moment and our connections to others, to animals, and to nature. Right now, I renew my promise to witness the unfolding of each moment with a steady presence and when I stray, to start over again.
Submitted by: Roselle Kovitz