Sunday, November 16, 2008

Living in the moment

A few years ago, while at O'Hare Airport changing flights, I picked up a copy of the book "Mind Like Water."

One chapter, or step, is called "Live in the Moment." In the author's words, "By being so concerned with what's next...we steal attention from the present. [It's] the ultimate absent-mindedness. When the mind becomes focused exclusively on the future, pretty soon we're not here at all."

Living in the moment has several benefits, according to the author, including efficiency (by eliminating worry); fearlessness (being "here" gives you ease and confidence); intelligence (by being totally mindful); and creativity (the present is the only place where something can be created).

The chapter includes a good quote from Eckhart Tolle:

"When you are on a journey, it is certainly helpful to know where you are going...but don't forget that the only thing that is ultimately real about your journey is the step that you are taking at this moment."