Feb 16 2009
Now
There’s something about death that is comforting.
The thought that you could die tomorrow frees you to appreciate your life now.
Angelina Jolie
First let me say that I never thought I’d be quoting Angelina Jolie for this series. Normally I will quote writers and philosophers however her quote struck a chord with me.
It is true that we don’t know when we will die. If you live your life thinking this could be your last day on earth you will inevitably live each day to the fullest without even thinking about the past or future. That is the true essence of living in the now.
We live the illusion that our past has somehow created the person we are today. We blame our past on difficulties we experience through our lives. The past is merely the past. It has taught us lessons and therefore we have grown as a result of these teachings. However it is gone. Dwelling on the past will prohibit moving forward.
The future is something we plan for and dream about yet it is not now. Dreaming and planning for the future takes away from our living in the moment. Living in the moment is the path to our inner self and enlightenment.
While writing this post the song “Let’s Live For Today” by the Grass Roots popped into my head and is exactly what the now is all about. So, I found them performing this song on YouTube back in the day. Listen closely to the lyrics.
Here are a few suggestions
1. Live for today. Shed your past and don’t allow yourself to blame your past for your current conditions. We choose and create who we are. The past has nothing to do with our current situations.
2. Do not blame the past or daydream of the future. Living anywhere other than in the present moment is a recipe for negativity.
3. Do not allow yourself to shed tears over past mistakes. Mistakes are great teachers and should therefore be embraced.
Good advice
Great post, advice, and inspiring!
The tragedy of 9/11 changed my life and made me and my husband realize everything you wrote about. It freaked us out . . .
We made a pact to treat each day as if it were our last and never left each other without a hug and sweet words . . . never went to bed angry.
He died a year later, but the last year of our life together was the most meaningful . . .
Thanks for the beautiful and awesome post
Gina
http://peacelovehappiness.today.com
Yes, that is so true. Sometimes I just have to turn off my thoughts and take in the sights, smells, and feeling of where I’m at right now. Some of my best “in the moment” moments are when I’m outdoors.
alzheimersideas - Thanks for reading and commenting.
icybc - Thank you my friend.
Gina - 911 affected so many in that manner. I’m so glad you had that special and meaningful time together. You have the right idea.
Zorlone - thanks for the comment and you do make a good point.
caregiving- I am the same. Being in nature I am at me best.