Sunday, September 20, 2009

Experience Now

Those of you with young children still at home have a blessing in your life that I know I didn’t recognize when my children were young. Having Eli here and watching him live life has taught me something. Children live in the present. They are always present! They live every moment of their lives unlike us adults who project into the future or recreate the past. We spend so much time worrying or stressing that things aren’t the way they should be instead of enjoying the way they are. Children, on the other hand, embrace each moment and experience whatever it has to offer. They soak in the joy of each moment and enjoy the peace and happiness each moment offers them.

When I was raising my children, I thought of myself as the teacher expounding my great knowledge to shape my children’s lives. With Eli here, I’ve realized what I missed. By letting go of that idea and watching him, I am learning so much about how to live a happy life. Eli knows that each moment holds a gift and he is aware enough to accept the gifts offered. He eagerly anticipates them! I’m learning from him to be present—to take it all in.

6 comments:

Cathy said...

I needed some 'good news' tonight and found some helpful advice, thanks.

Wendi said...

This is a good observation. Thanks! :)

Sherrie Mills Johnson said...

Cathy, And your thanks is good news for me.

Sherrie Mills Johnson said...

Wendi, It is amazing what we can learn from our children, isn't it!

Mindy said...

I am a new addition to your reading pool. Thank you so much for reminding me that I am a mother of a beautiful 2 year old that is teaching me to let go of the 'future' and hold tight to the present. She is so good at that. I needed this tonight, Thank you again.

Sherrie Mills Johnson said...

Mindy, Welcome! Thanks for leaving a comment. I wish I had learned this lesson earlier. Children can teach us so much if we just get rid of the idea that we are always the teacher!