presence | here i am

I got to enjoy all my family members, one on one today throughout the day and that made me happy. This is what I wanted for Christmas, and it came early!

Charlie brought his bagel with him to my desk while I was working and decided to just sit on my lap and talk with me. With one hand, he shared a bite and he wrapped the other arm around my neck. I enjoyed his presence and did not rush him off, which felt good. He innocently wanted to be with me and didn’t have to say a word and I heard it.

Christian and I went driving together and practiced his skills behind the wheel, with him driving us to get his hair cut and then to look for new shoes. I realize that early next year, he will be able to drive himself and we won’t share these moments as frequently, if at all. I enjoyed his company.

Jeff came home from work before I had to leave and we sat on the couch by our Christmas tree together for 10 minutes, sharing a conversation before the next round of evening events. I loved that we both took the time to just chill and that the kids let us be without interrupting every 2 minutes.

Finally, Juliana came with me to my Christmas gift exchange party tonight and I was elated that she even wanted to come. She’s a high schooler and still likes me! I loved sharing glances and watching her interact with my friends, and enjoying the evening together. She is my angel.

Life is good, despite the stress and busyness of the holiday and work season, for those who choose presence.

Be present, BeLoveRs and choose to Be in the moments as they present themselves. Wishing you love and light and presence.

nAMaste

How did you rest today?

Did you slow down and enjoy a special moment with someone or something you love?

The message for today was not to hurry. I had to think about this one for awhile and wondered what that would look like and feel like to slow down. I always feel like I am in a hurry and juggling several things at once. I want to go, go, go, and don’t want to stop until bed time.

What happens when you don’t hurry?

I decided to practice today, since it was the sabbath, a day of rest.

As we were leaving church today, a gentleman decided he wanted to talk with us. We did not know him, yet his eyes sparkled and he wanted to share his story with us. Since we weren’t in a hurry, we listened. And we listened until everyone around us left. We walked outside and we listened some more. He had a lot to share and was very interesting and friendly. Plus, we weren’t in a hurry and we felt the presence of the moment and just being together in conversation, sharing stories and feeling good.

Juliana and I went shopping after lunch and we took our time. We weren’t in a rush and we were able to find what we were seeking. I wanted to hurry home and be done, but instead we slowed down. I smiled at people and shared stories. One girl gave me an extra 10% off my order, maybe because I was not in a hurry and was present for a real moment in the check out line with her, asking her personal questions. I was actually enjoying the slower process and talking to people. I saw the workers differently and appreciated their service and hearing their stories too.

I feel like if we slow down and see people and connect, maybe we can make this world a little less hectic and discover what we have in common and smile and share a laugh.

Hmm…that’s what happened to me today and I loved it. How about you? What happens when you slow down?