I recently spent two days with my two month old grandson. It was the gift of full presence (most of the time!). I really focused on him – what his demeanor seemed to be saying about his needs in that moment. I wanted to understand him, respond to his requests and receive the gift of his spirit which kept on shining.
What I noticed as I returned to “life as usual” is how challenging it is to be fully present, to notice what is really here now, what my body and spirit need now, what is showing up in my spouse now. Rather, so quickly the list returned to front and center and I heard: “What needs to be accomplished now?” ringing in my head.
What is the both/and here?
How can I be with what is really here AND do what needs to be done?
Here are a few things that showed up in the space following that question:
- Breathe
- Breathe again
- Ask – answer – and fulfill- the questions: What does my physical body need now? My emotional body? My spirit?
- Return to the list. What really needs to happen today? Remove or reschedule the rest.
- Now, select and complete one task – then repeat step 3.
- Repeat step 5 over and over and over again as the day unfolds. Oh, and don’t forget to breathe!
What works for you to be both PRESENT and DOING?