Where Do You Begin? Right Here, Right Now
This is where we begin. From where we are. Right now is very important and, in fact, is the only moment that exists. There is no reverting to a previous moment, a save point in the journey. If only we could, huh? ;)
For someone like me who is very sensitive to the “story” of our lives, this is easier stated than embraced. We tend to think in such a linear fashion, but life is more like a cyclical starburst. It’s so tempting to reflect back and imagine having taken very different steps than you have that would've lead to a different. “now.” It can be quite frustrating. However, this is also comforting.
Time is too finite to seek to re-do every possible moment, even if you could. The encouraging thought is that since you only have right now, you know what to do next? Create a better “now."
Still with me?
Certainly, there is meaning in reflecting on what was to help make sense of your current reality, to make amends, to choose differently. Then, that’s it. Let it go. If you are struggling with where you find yourself at this moment, let that be okay. Embrace the struggle, stand it with all the courage you can muster at this moment.
What is it that you want? If it's hard to know, than just start with one thing. There may be many things you’d like to grow into a reality. Beautiful. Write those down. Have you allowed yourself to fall into a rut, either physically, mentally, or spiritually? Do you feel utterly out-of-touch with your life or perhaps with those around you?
It may be something as specific as seeking to go back to school to pursue a career path or as general as finding a sweet spot, a springboard from which you can move forward in all aspects of your life. Let’s pick one today and start there.
For now, just choose to begin. Begin practicing being present where you are. Start by showing up for even the smallest moments of your life. If you find you are wandering away, then keep practicing coming back to the current moment and breathe--much like meditation. In fact, I highly recommend you do that, too.
Show up for your life. That’s where you begin.