Living in the Present

By Lance Wright

Living in the present can be so difficult at times with all the history and experiences of our past undergirding how we view life, both today in our current reality, and with regards to our future and the possibility it holds.

How often do we recognize what we really bring to the table daily? I for one can recognize little prejudices or judgments, which crop up towards others based on past similar experiences or fears and anxiety when confronted with situations that I have failed at before. Often my first inclination is to shrink away from opportunity rather than meet the challenge. Thank God for many years of recovery and learning not to always listen to my first thought or inclination. I have many more friends as a result and I am much more at peace inwardly. And having more success in life!

I recently spent some time reflecting on why I was feeling so frustrated lately. I felt like I have been treading water and not getting anywhere. I have many things going on in my life towards a better future and yet I was uncomfortable. I spent time with mentors and after much dialogue found that my focus was so engrossed in the future, I was taking for granted everything I had right here right now. I had become overwhelmingly caught up in the outcome and frustrated with the process of getting there.  In short, I wasn’t living in the present!

This week I hope to reflect on what I have and be grateful. There are so many blessings in my life that I often miss because I am not present in the moment. A friend of mine from Indonesia once said, “God is not in the past or the future, God is in the present.” May we find time to spend with God in the present this week, and be grateful for what we have. Peace