Monday, January 3, 2011

The wisdom of a child

When I was a child, summer vacation seemed to last forever. We packed so much fun into each day ~ from the minute we hopped out of bed in the early morning until the moon came up and we ran around playing flashlight tag. But it just wasn't the summer time which seemed timeless. All of the seasons, all of the months, all of the days seemed to be endless. There was never any concern about running out of time. We just played until we collapsed. So many hours of tag, kickball, hide and seek, jump roping and bike riding. No need for planners or to do lists or even a watch. We just lived for each moment. We focused on the 'here and now' instead of getting lost in the past or wishing for the future.

We just lived for each moment. We focused on the 'here and now' instead of getting lost in the past or wishing for the future. 

Oh. My. Goodness.

 When I was seven years old I had a clearer understanding of how to be mindful of moments, on the importance of enjoying each day and on making the most of my time. Today at the age of fifty-three I have to work hard to accomplish these goals. I need constant reminders to stop and smell the roses. I get caught up in my past and worry to much about the future. I have difficulty appreciating the small 'things' in life. Those small 'things' really are the big things. Stress levels are high and lists are long as I try to do it all. The sad fact is that I often end up accomplishing very little since it can be difficult to focus on the here and now.

So through the writing of the post I have avoided long expensive hours on the couch of a therapist. I know what I need to do in order to live my life with purpose and intention. I will start appreciating and celebrating the small stuff. Being mindful of moments will be more than just words ~ I will walk the walk ! I will allow the inner child within to come out on a regular basis so I will be reminded of what is truly impotant. Time will not be my master anymore. A seven year old with a pixie haircut, skinny legs and crooked teeth will gently remind me to have fun because time is running out.

8 comments:

Brian Miller said...

smiles. yes i think we all need reminders to do this more...

Liz Mays said...

A good reminder to us all to enjoy the here and now. It's so tough to do though!

Akelamalu said...

Things were SO much easier when we were children.

Kim Mailhot said...

Time is running out and yet, we have this very moment ! Yay ! Invite that 7 year old you out to play. Oh, and if your 7 year old pixie-do girl should meet my 7 year old chickie with beautiful long brown braids, maybe we can stop and smell the same sweet flowers for a moment...
Happy Today, Beautiful Deb !

Sueann said...

As I get older, time has a way of moving faster and faster. So savoring the moments is crucial!! Thanks for the reminder!
Hugs
SueAnn

Kim Mailhot said...

wanted you to know you inspired some art play today...
http://queen-of-arts.blogspot.com/2011/01/walking-off-wonky.html

SandyCarlson said...

Childhood felt like forever for the exact reason you cite. We lived in the moment. Life is good and it is beautiful. I think the answer is to smile through uncertainty. Because why not.

MyMaracas said...

Yes, I feel more and more that sense of time running out. Do let that inner kid out to play.

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