Greater presence in teaching and being with a very feisty and often obstinate little Brazilian deaf boy who landed in our school, and is now on my ESL caseload. He speaks virtually no English, and it’s a often a challenge to manage his determination not to follow classroom rules and routines! Calls for wisdom, patience and humor.
My youngest natural brother (I have an adopted younger brother also) is flying in from Colorado tomorrow so a lot of the family is getting together in Massachusetts. He hasn’t been home in a while so it will be good to see him and catch up. He pretty much is off the grid, no computer! He moved out to Vail while on ski vacation during college and fell in love with the area and has remained living there.
To be more curious and open to those who hold a different world view than me. I do realize that my world view is simply a collection of experiences I have had over my life. And the world view of the youth of today is shaped by very different forces than those that have shaped me. Seeking an openness to the diversity of view (and influences) may bring a better picture and experience of the Truth unfolding in these days.
My husband’s health. He is not in good health and is declining. I love him so much and feel so helpless at times. I do my best to make his days easier and better–he is in chronic pain, among other things. I am not much of a nurse so it is hard for me when he is in need of one. I am doing my best, but think I need to allow myself to be more present to what he is experiencing, rather than just getting overwhelmed.
I can so relate to what you posted. I am in the same situation. It holds so many emotions that at times it is hard to sort out. My husband’s birthday is in a few days. The reality is that this could be his last year here in this earthly body. I will hold you in my breaking heart also.
Satisfaction is one aspect of my life that is called out for a better presence. It means that I work hard for what is possible to achieve whereas I don’t chase things that are out of my ability to achieve. So, for that, I enjoy my present and life is still beautiful even though what I wish for doesn’t exist.
My first thought after reading the question and today’s Word of the Day was “What do I want?” The answer is I want to relax, release and go with the flow. My cousin, oldest daughter of my 100 year old uncle, and I were chatting recently and she shared that when she was a teenager, her dad was very strict, very authoritarian, and very slow to answer any of her questions. In later years, she asked him why he was so hard on her when she was young and was more lenient with her younger brothers and sisters. He responded, ” “I started parenthood as a very square bolder in a fast moving stream. As the years passed, I got my edges worn down.” Well, I am at a stage in my life where I want that boulder in the river of my life to become a pebble that goes with the flow until it becomes the FLOW, the Presence. Or as Br. David would say, Don’t miss the opportunity in this moment and this moment..
“Gratefulness has three steps: not missing the opportunity, appreciating the opportunity, and using or enjoying the opportunity. By this method we come fully alive, full of joy, which is what we are all longing for.” Br. David
I want to move “from longing to belonging in every aspect of my life. Awareness…Awareness…Awareness
My family is visiting and we traveled to a Resort in WV…Peter and I are in our motorhome in the campground and my family (2 nieces and spouses and my sister in law and a lady friend)…but I have been sick with Bronchitis for a week now (I did see my doctor- I am on antibiotics, steroid and cough medicine…but it just is hanging on…coughing all night. So right now—my health is calling me to be more present..It will be hard for the next several days to get rest…but I am going to try. However; I have not seen my family in 2 years…so I also need to be present for and to them. It is not going to be easy!
So sorry that you’re sick right when you want to be with family! I’m sure your family understands that you can’t spread yourself too thin and recover as quickly as possible. Those two things are in conflict.
Thank you, Barb! That is indeed helpful. I feel guilty – not being able to be with everyone- and do activities…but I really would like to just be in bed…It is indeed a conflict. Thank you!
For me, it’s not so much about being
present as being grateful in the present
and tending to the different aspects of
my life. Much of my life is consumed
with work/survival. Relationships, play,
adventure, art, music, health, and spirituality,
tend to fall be the wayside. Removing
distractions can allow for some time
to be available for these important
aspects of my life.
Easier said than done.
My hands have been in excruciating pain since I fell on the concrete a couple of weeks ago. Living alone, it is a challenge to get the smallest things done. I did see a doctor, but his suggestions did not help. It was sort of a drop in clinic. He and his workers were very kind. I have not figured out what aspects in my life are calling for greater presence. Perhaps kindness and patience for myself? I am greatly missing the health care system I had before our family moved to the other side of the state. I am so grateful to have all of you here, just to know there is so much kindness all around. Thank you for being here, for listening.
So, so sorry to hear this! I’m immediately prompted to offer advice, which isn’t what you’re here asking for. So instead I’ll just offer warm sympathy and a virtual gentle hand massage with soothing lotion.
Oh, Pilgrim, I hope that soon you will be feeling better. Falls at our age seem to take the starch right out of us. I am so sorry about your hands…have you tried a heating pad on them…to relax the muscles…anything to give you some comfort. You most likely stretched some tendons and ligaments. I fell last week ….bonked my head on the creamic tile bathroom floor…knoocked my glasses into my nose–egg on my head and big black and blues on my nose!!1 And then I got bronchitis and cannot stop coughing…then company…and now we are traveling and I am not feeling well…but we know that “this too shall pass”. Prayers and positive thoughts for you…sending hugs.
Prayers to you, as well, Nannette! It seems as if you have been through your own ringer/situations and are paying the price. I do have multiple heating pads here, as I have used various types for many years. I have very small hands, for one thing, and keeping them warm seems to help. And a lot of osteoarthritis for a long time. It seems like heating pads are a great invention! I hope you are making some recovery along this pathway. Many blessings, and may you feel better soon!
I feel the aspects of my life that are calling out for my greater presence are my health and making better food choices/being more active…. easier said than done, especially with it being National Chocolate Day, LOL .
Have a good weekend everyone 🙂
Chocolate Is A Very Good Choice. Thank you for this all-important information! In a little while I’m going for my weekly walk to the farmers’ market with my husband. There’s a wonderful shop in our downtown with those beautiful handmade chocolates that look like tiny works of art. I may have to stop in for some “art appreciation” to celebrate this most important holiday.
I need to ask them where the chocolate comes from to be sure it’s ethically sourced. I’m grateful for those who provide information to help us know the real cost to bring us things we enjoy. That’s an aspect of life that needs my greater presence: investigation and awareness so I don’t perpetuate suffering with my money. https://www.slavefreechocolate.org/
I try to pay attention to these aspects in my life. I believe these need to be nurtured for me to move on and be whole.
Spiritual
Social
Physical
Emotional
Cognition
Awe
Gratefulness
Two things. My respect and attitude of the aging process. The trust in me that my two adult children have demonstrated recently. Jeremy made a move to Tucson, AZ a month ago and invited us to his new digs for Thanksgiving. We have committed. Jackie left a well paying job, with a large country wide company, to pursue some work less demanding of her time and more time for her to be with her family. They both have been calling me more frequently, both text or speak with Cheryl daily. I listen to them speak and hope to impart onto them that it is a good thing to follow their hearts and search for what will allow them to experience more joy and that I love them dearly.
My one daughter, Bridget, will be moving down here to FL and moving in with me the end of Dec/Early Jan. My emotions are a bit everywhere – I’m excited and also nervous – I’ve been living by myself for over 7 yrs now, I know there will be some challenges. Change is good. As you said ‘I love them dearly’.
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Greater presence in teaching and being with a very feisty and often obstinate little Brazilian deaf boy who landed in our school, and is now on my ESL caseload. He speaks virtually no English, and it’s a often a challenge to manage his determination not to follow classroom rules and routines! Calls for wisdom, patience and humor.
You post brings back a flood of memories! May you be blessed with wisdom and a bunch of love.
My youngest natural brother (I have an adopted younger brother also) is flying in from Colorado tomorrow so a lot of the family is getting together in Massachusetts. He hasn’t been home in a while so it will be good to see him and catch up. He pretty much is off the grid, no computer! He moved out to Vail while on ski vacation during college and fell in love with the area and has remained living there.
For the moment being, it seems my health needs more attention, so to take care of it better 🙏
To be more curious and open to those who hold a different world view than me. I do realize that my world view is simply a collection of experiences I have had over my life. And the world view of the youth of today is shaped by very different forces than those that have shaped me. Seeking an openness to the diversity of view (and influences) may bring a better picture and experience of the Truth unfolding in these days.
My husband’s health. He is not in good health and is declining. I love him so much and feel so helpless at times. I do my best to make his days easier and better–he is in chronic pain, among other things. I am not much of a nurse so it is hard for me when he is in need of one. I am doing my best, but think I need to allow myself to be more present to what he is experiencing, rather than just getting overwhelmed.
I can so relate to what you posted. I am in the same situation. It holds so many emotions that at times it is hard to sort out. My husband’s birthday is in a few days. The reality is that this could be his last year here in this earthly body. I will hold you in my breaking heart also.
Satisfaction is one aspect of my life that is called out for a better presence. It means that I work hard for what is possible to achieve whereas I don’t chase things that are out of my ability to achieve. So, for that, I enjoy my present and life is still beautiful even though what I wish for doesn’t exist.
My first thought after reading the question and today’s Word of the Day was “What do I want?” The answer is I want to relax, release and go with the flow. My cousin, oldest daughter of my 100 year old uncle, and I were chatting recently and she shared that when she was a teenager, her dad was very strict, very authoritarian, and very slow to answer any of her questions. In later years, she asked him why he was so hard on her when she was young and was more lenient with her younger brothers and sisters. He responded, ” “I started parenthood as a very square bolder in a fast moving stream. As the years passed, I got my edges worn down.” Well, I am at a stage in my life where I want that boulder in the river of my life to become a pebble that goes with the flow until it becomes the FLOW, the Presence. Or as Br. David would say, Don’t miss the opportunity in this moment and this moment..
“Gratefulness has three steps: not missing the opportunity, appreciating the opportunity, and using or enjoying the opportunity. By this method we come fully alive, full of joy, which is what we are all longing for.” Br. David
I want to move “from longing to belonging in every aspect of my life. Awareness…Awareness…Awareness
My family is visiting and we traveled to a Resort in WV…Peter and I are in our motorhome in the campground and my family (2 nieces and spouses and my sister in law and a lady friend)…but I have been sick with Bronchitis for a week now (I did see my doctor- I am on antibiotics, steroid and cough medicine…but it just is hanging on…coughing all night. So right now—my health is calling me to be more present..It will be hard for the next several days to get rest…but I am going to try. However; I have not seen my family in 2 years…so I also need to be present for and to them. It is not going to be easy!
So sorry that you’re sick right when you want to be with family! I’m sure your family understands that you can’t spread yourself too thin and recover as quickly as possible. Those two things are in conflict.
Thank you, Barb! That is indeed helpful. I feel guilty – not being able to be with everyone- and do activities…but I really would like to just be in bed…It is indeed a conflict. Thank you!
For me, it’s not so much about being
present as being grateful in the present
and tending to the different aspects of
my life. Much of my life is consumed
with work/survival. Relationships, play,
adventure, art, music, health, and spirituality,
tend to fall be the wayside. Removing
distractions can allow for some time
to be available for these important
aspects of my life.
Easier said than done.
My hands have been in excruciating pain since I fell on the concrete a couple of weeks ago. Living alone, it is a challenge to get the smallest things done. I did see a doctor, but his suggestions did not help. It was sort of a drop in clinic. He and his workers were very kind. I have not figured out what aspects in my life are calling for greater presence. Perhaps kindness and patience for myself? I am greatly missing the health care system I had before our family moved to the other side of the state. I am so grateful to have all of you here, just to know there is so much kindness all around. Thank you for being here, for listening.
So, so sorry to hear this! I’m immediately prompted to offer advice, which isn’t what you’re here asking for. So instead I’ll just offer warm sympathy and a virtual gentle hand massage with soothing lotion.
Thank you, Barb. I appreciate your kindness.
Oh, Pilgrim, I hope that soon you will be feeling better. Falls at our age seem to take the starch right out of us. I am so sorry about your hands…have you tried a heating pad on them…to relax the muscles…anything to give you some comfort. You most likely stretched some tendons and ligaments. I fell last week ….bonked my head on the creamic tile bathroom floor…knoocked my glasses into my nose–egg on my head and big black and blues on my nose!!1 And then I got bronchitis and cannot stop coughing…then company…and now we are traveling and I am not feeling well…but we know that “this too shall pass”. Prayers and positive thoughts for you…sending hugs.
Prayers to you, as well, Nannette! It seems as if you have been through your own ringer/situations and are paying the price. I do have multiple heating pads here, as I have used various types for many years. I have very small hands, for one thing, and keeping them warm seems to help. And a lot of osteoarthritis for a long time. It seems like heating pads are a great invention! I hope you are making some recovery along this pathway. Many blessings, and may you feel better soon!
Thank you, Pilgrim for your caring !! Wishing you better days!
Healing thoughts and kindness to both of you. Pilgrim and Nannette.
Family. Seeing them more. Calling them more. The love is there. It’s the time and distance thing that keeps getting in the way.
I feel the aspects of my life that are calling out for my greater presence are my health and making better food choices/being more active…. easier said than done, especially with it being National Chocolate Day, LOL .
Have a good weekend everyone 🙂
Chocolate Is A Very Good Choice. Thank you for this all-important information! In a little while I’m going for my weekly walk to the farmers’ market with my husband. There’s a wonderful shop in our downtown with those beautiful handmade chocolates that look like tiny works of art. I may have to stop in for some “art appreciation” to celebrate this most important holiday.
I need to ask them where the chocolate comes from to be sure it’s ethically sourced. I’m grateful for those who provide information to help us know the real cost to bring us things we enjoy. That’s an aspect of life that needs my greater presence: investigation and awareness so I don’t perpetuate suffering with my money. https://www.slavefreechocolate.org/
I try to pay attention to these aspects in my life. I believe these need to be nurtured for me to move on and be whole.
Spiritual
Social
Physical
Emotional
Cognition
Awe
Gratefulness
great list!
Two things. My respect and attitude of the aging process. The trust in me that my two adult children have demonstrated recently. Jeremy made a move to Tucson, AZ a month ago and invited us to his new digs for Thanksgiving. We have committed. Jackie left a well paying job, with a large country wide company, to pursue some work less demanding of her time and more time for her to be with her family. They both have been calling me more frequently, both text or speak with Cheryl daily. I listen to them speak and hope to impart onto them that it is a good thing to follow their hearts and search for what will allow them to experience more joy and that I love them dearly.
My one daughter, Bridget, will be moving down here to FL and moving in with me the end of Dec/Early Jan. My emotions are a bit everywhere – I’m excited and also nervous – I’ve been living by myself for over 7 yrs now, I know there will be some challenges. Change is good. As you said ‘I love them dearly’.
The relationships in my life are calling out for greater presence with hope, wisdom and understanding.