Habits & Living in the Moment

Most human beings (a generality but a true one) move through their lives on auto pilot, their daily habits and routines set, and when providence throws a wrench into the works, stress prevails. The famous Greek philosopher, Aristotle, a practical man, wrote,

“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence then, is not an act, but a habit.”

At times in one’s life, the shells fall from the eyes, and we see life to be a gift, existence becomes something not to be taken for granted. When reflecting, the reality of one’s habits come to fore, and often times, we do not like what we see. The list appears to be endless:

Eating too much.
Drinking too much.
Eating the wrong foods.
Staying up late.
Writing when should be marking school work.
Day dreaming. (Mostly about Love)
Procrastinating, paying bills.
Procrastinating in general.
Sleeping in.
Drinking too much alcohol, smoking too many cigarettes.

However these are human habits, habits that are certainly understandable. This is not what my subject is about…we move along through life not really seeing, smelling, touching, really tasting one’s food, or hearing the movement of the wind.

Most of us during our short lives experience a moment of clarity, where existence, in all its wonder, is revealed. When this occurs, it is different for all of us, we see an aspect of the world, a portion of our lives that has been neglected, something that now, is very important…something so crucial, that before our certain death, must happen, must be carried out…should be done.

For this writer, it is paying attention to the world, listening, seeing, feeling the moment; most importantly, being kind to all God’s creation, when and where ever possible. Love & kindness is key, to ensure our lives move on and are successful, no matter what our definition of success may be.

My habit has been to skate through life, being “nice” when possible and taking the path of least resistance. Well, no, that’s not entirely true. Taking the path of “hurt” sometimes brings fruits, the tough path is necessary, sacrificing your own concerns for the other. To love someone is to give without thought of self, a notion that this person, individual or animal is safe…and you have given everything possible.

My basic habits have been de- constructive, for the most part, sitting, drinking, writing crap, moving through life like a robot… not living the moment, never paying attention…but what I have discovered…

Love is all important: love for children, love for your oldest friend, love for your mum, and love for your students, love for your lover, and love for the world…love for the Creator.

A very good friend of mine is an early riser, walking every morning as our sun appears and the day begins. This is her favourite moment of the day, smelling the fresh air, listening to the birds, observing shadows turn to light, somehow feeling part of this miracle…she has expressed to me many times how she wishes everyone should see and experience this moment, the wonders of the morning and the world. This has been her routine, habit, for many years…this habit has made her understand the importance of living in the moment, to pay attention, resulting in a real connection to existence.

Create good habits and stay awake…