There was a time in my life when my body was present but my mind lived in la-la land. I moved through daily activities while mentally rehearsing past conversations, replaying old hurts, and spinning elaborate fantasies about future possibilities. The here and now—with all its simple awesomeness—remained invisible to me.
I was living everywhere except where life actually happens: in this moment.
The Space Between Past and Future
The present moment can be thought of as the coveted space between past and future, where peace and joy naturally exist. This isn’t about dismissing our history or abandoning our dreams. Our past experiences have shaped us into who we are today, and future goals give us direction and purpose.
But when we begin dwelling in the past or worrying about the future, we miss the only place where we can actually take action, feel joy, or experience love. Right now is where the action is—and can only be.
Learning from Our Inner Child
The key to reclaiming present-moment awareness lies in reconnecting with the child that still exists within us all. That child knows how to:
- Find wonder in ordinary moments – A simple car ride becomes an opportunity for spontaneous song and laughter
- Engage fully without self-consciousness – No worrying about looking silly while hula hooping or jumping rope
- Experience emotions completely – Laughter that makes your sides hurt, joy that fills your entire being
- Stay curious rather than judgmental – Approaching each experience with fresh eyes and open hearts
Practical Steps to Present-Moment Living
Watch a child at play and notice their complete absorption. They’re not thinking about yesterday’s disappointments or tomorrow’s responsibilities. They’re fully engaged with what’s in front of them right now.
We can cultivate this same quality of attention. When we catch our minds wandering to past regrets or future anxieties, we can gently redirect our focus to the present. What do we see, hear, feel right now? What opportunities for joy or connection exist in this very moment?
Sometimes the path back to presence requires us to temporarily become children again—to sing silly songs, laugh without reason, or play without purpose. These aren’t frivolous activities; they’re essential practices for reclaiming our capacity for full living.
The Awakening That Awaits
When we commit to present-moment awareness, something magical happens. We become awake, aware, and truly alive. We notice the simple miracles that surround us constantly: the warmth of connection, the beauty in everyday moments, the profound gift of being conscious and breathing.
Today, make a commitment to re-establish a sense of gratitude for what exists right now. Strive to reconnect with your inner child—that part of you that knows how to be fully present, completely engaged, and absolutely alive.
This is how we truly live: not by perfecting our past or controlling our future, but by embracing the magnificent, unrepeatable gift of this present moment. The child within you remembers how to do this. It’s time to let them teach you once again.