“Live in each season as it passes; breathe the air, drink the drink,
taste the fruit, and resign yourself to the influence of the earth.”
– Henry David Thoreau
Summer is in full bloom in my garden….and the days longer and warmer. My brilliant yellow and orange daylilies are blooming. As their name implies, those stunning flowers only last a short time–a day! If I don’t go outside each day, I’ll miss several at their peak beauty. Just knowing this, I’m out there daily. This little reminder supports my intention to be more present and aware wherever I am.
Living in Real Time
One significant choice I made was to “live in real time” which meant more time in the present here and now, and less time scrolling curated versions of life on the screens.
When I looked at my average screen time usage and the number of times I pick up my phone per day I was stunned! So I consciously made a decision to put down (or put out of sight) the phone, step away from screens, and show up fully to what’s right in front of me. Whether it was a conversation, a meal, a walk, reading a book, or a quiet moment alone, I showed up. I’m not perfect at it believe me, but I’m getting better. I became more aware of how often I reached for my phone since it was sitting next to me and how addicted I have been to the constant bombardment of news feeds, incoming texts, and a barrage of information.
My real life isn’t always exciting, often it’s predictable, slow and rather ordinary. But it’s mine and I’ve become more engaged and happier with my own life.
This change has heightened my senses. There were things I saw and didn’t like, so I changed things up. I walk around the garden every morning, see what needed trimming, watering, and what’s blooming. I’ve cleaned rooms and got rid of things. I’m paying attention to what is happening in “my life”. I prepared several recipes I love from the wonderful cookbooks I already own. I initiated getting together for coffee or a meal with friends more than I had lately. There is definitely something wonderful about sitting across the table from a friend enjoying a good conversation.
I admit it hasn’t been easy. It takes more energy to initiate something, to make an effort, to drive somewhere, but it is well worth it! I always come away feeling energized and nourished afterwards.
This summer I’m going to focus on “savoring” my life through my senses, reducing my screen time and spend more time in my own life. Writing, gardening, enjoying family and friends, and intentionally focused on what’s important to me.
I’ll close with Mary Oliver’s question at the end of her poem, A Summer Day…
“Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”
