Each Moment

 The early morning sky is soft and muted...blue-tinged clouds surrounded by gentle rosy light.  As I watch the sky gradually fill with light, I listen to the woodland birds and the low, cooing call of a mourning dove. The air is damp and fragrant after last night's rain and I am struck by how beautiful everything is, taken in all at once. This day, and each day, really, is unique unto itself, just as each moment of our lives is.

Each moment is precious and new, even though to our conscious minds life may seem ordinary and routine. It's all about perception, really...opening our eyes, ears and heart to all that is around us and seeing as if for the first time.

I think that's why I love teaching young children-everything is fascinating to them: a bug, a worm, a dandelion, a duck wandering through the schoolyard. They have the gift of enthusiasm for life that we so often lose when we are going through the sometimes mind-numbing sameness  of day-to-day life or when we are experiencing struggles and challenges that sap our energy.

We can usher in that child-like enthusiasm, whether or not we have a young person in our lives to inspire us. It is a simple habit of mind to notice, to use all of our senses and really be present in the moment. The catch-word these days is mindfulness; to be attentive and aware as you move through your day. 

The practice of mindfulness can begin with the first conscious breath of the morning:

• Breathe deeply and slowly
• Be fully aware and fully present in your body
• Release thoughts of the past or future and just "be"
• Step outside: notice the sights, sounds and smells
• Fully immerse yourself in the experience of eating and drinking, noticing the smell and taste of juice, coffee and breakfast
• Take this mindset into the day, fully focusing on each new moment as it presents itself
• When your mind wanders, simply bring it back, without judgment

Be thankful for the life within you and all around you...breathe it in and enjoy the gift of the day!