Here's to the Present

“You must learn to get in touch with the innermost essence of your being. This true essence is beyond the ego. It is fearless; it is free; it is immune to criticism; it does not fear challenge. It is beneath no one, superior to no one, and full of magic, mystery and enchantment.” –Deepak Chopra

One philosophy, which I try to always practice, is staying present. Staying in this state of now, and not fretting about the future, while also not dwelling in the past. I have come to the conclusion that this is the healthiest state to be in, but sometimes I think to fully appreciate the present and to be optimistic about the future, we must pause briefly, to look back.

Look back and see how far you have come and how you have prevailed. It’s quite remarkable to see how God has shaped us into something so beautiful out of this mess that we call our lives. Looking back only makes it clearer that your soul is being pulled toward a purpose far greater than your own understanding.

So stop planning and start feeling. Let go of that ridiculous need to control your life because if there is one thing I know for certain, its’ that we have absolutely no control over what happens in this chaotic universe. I’m not saying we shouldn’t have goals. No, goals are great! What I’m getting at is that we shouldn’t be taking the “safe route” in life, which would promise money and comfort. Who wants to look back on their deathbed and say, “Well that was boring, but at least I had enough money to get by.” Boo. That guy is missing the point. Life isn’t about getting by, it’s about growing and exploring and finding out whom you are. We were all blessed with a gift that sets us apart from the rest. Don’t let that go to waste. Discover it. Tend to it, and watch, as you grow to become the being you were meant to be. This can only occur if we let go of the unnecessary control and go with our gut. You know that natural instinct we all have? My father once said that our gut is a piece of God, which lies in all of us. He’s our compass, forever guiding us with our own intuition. Let yourself be guided and not the guide. Truly tune into your intuition and actually listen to it for once. You will not be mislead.

So here’s to feeling rather than thinking your way through life. Here’s to the present.