The Magic is Here & Now…
Embrace the Present, Release the Past
As I visualize myself as a child playing, I can feel the innocence and curiosity pulsating within me. Looking down at that lively four-year-old, their eyes filled with wonder, they ask me, "How are you doing? Tell me my future." A wave of realization washes over me as I understand that this child represents not only my past but also my present self.
Taking a deep breath, I gaze into their innocent eyes and share how I am doing. I tell them about the ups and downs, the successes and failures, the moments of joy and loss, the times of boredom and fun. I reassure them that life is a beautiful tapestry of experiences, both exhilarating and challenging. I encourage them to embrace every moment and learn from it, for each experience shapes us into the person we are meant to become.
But then, in a moment of profound clarity, I realize that I must let it all go. The past, with its triumphs and setbacks, can be released if I allow it. The child within me, as well as the one I gaze upon, deserves to let go of the weight that holds them back.
Turning my gaze to my elderly self sitting next to me at eighty-four years old, I inquire, "How are you doing? Tell me my future." A tender smile spreads across their face as they respond with wisdom earned through a lifetime of experiences. They remind me that how I am doing at this very moment is how I am truly doing. They unveil the secret to discovering my future lies in embracing the present wholeheartedly.
The elder emphasizes that the best moments in my life are yet to unfold. They share that I have dear friends to meet, dreams to chase, and experiences to savor, but the key is to act now, without hesitation. They implore me not to wait, for today is the day to embark on my journey towards fulfillment.
Moreover, the wise elder urges me to release all the burdens that weigh me down. They invite me to exhale the pain caused by those who have hurt me – the hurt, anger, disappointment, and frustration. The mountains of emotions that I have been carrying were meant to be climbed, not to be held forever within me. I must carry the lessons learned, but release the overwhelming emotions that hinder my growth.
As I look down at the four-year-old playing, their innocence radiates pure joy and optimism. I cannot bear the thought of them holding onto disappointment, frustration, hurt, and sadness any longer.
And when I turn to the eighty-four-year-old version of myself, their gentle presence echoes the same sentiment. They want me to let go, to free myself from the shackles of negativity that bind me.
In this moment, I come to realize that these two beings - the child within and the wise elder beside me - are the only ones I am here to impress. The four-year-old embodies hope and unyielding faith in the wonders yet to be discovered, while the eighty-four-year-old embodies divine wisdom and the knowledge of the limitless possibilities that await.
With this profound realization, I embrace the present and release the weight of the past. I set forth on a new path, guided by the optimism of a child and the wisdom of an elder. Every step I take is infused with the excitement of what lies ahead and the confidence that the best moments in my life are yet to unfold.
If you find yourself nodding along to these words, then you are my kindred spirits. As someone who grew up without siblings, I had ample time to explore the depths of my own being. And let me tell you, the time I spend with myself is a precious treasure, worth more than any material possession.
During these solitary moments, I reflect upon where I have been and where I envision myself going. I contemplate my dreams, my aspirations, and the path I will traverse to reach them. It is during these introspective sessions that I recognize the profound importance of yoga in my life.
Yoga is not merely a physical practice; it is a portal to your inner wisdom. It serves as a bridge connecting your body, mind, heart, and soul. Through its powerful techniques and teachings, yoga enables us to find contentment in the present while actively striving for our desires in the future. However, it is crucial to remember that the true work only occurs in the now.
Any efforts made to shape the future are mere theories and illusions, akin to chasing smoke. If you yearn for greater flexibility, it is in this very moment that you should unroll your mat and come join me to practice yoga in Central Park. If peace is what you seek, then close your eyes and meditate in the present. And if it is love that you long for, connect with a dear friend right now.
You see, everything you desire in the future is intricately linked to the direct actions you take in the present. The now is where true transformation happens. It is the only moment in which anything actually occurs. And do not underestimate its power, for the now repeats itself infinitely until you draw your last breath.
So my fellow seekers of truth and explorers of self, embrace the magic of the present moment. Nurture your connection with yourself, for it is within this sacred space that dreams become reality. Let yoga be your guiding light, your faithful companion on this beautiful journey toward self-discovery. And remember, if this message resonates with you, my dear friend, then we are united by the common thread of shared understanding. We are, indeed, each other's people.
As a four-year-old, I listen intently to the wise words spoken to me. Although I may not fully grasp the depth of the message, I can sense the love and reassurance in the voice. I nod my head, attempting to understand the concept of things passing. Despite my limited comprehension, I find comfort in knowing that there will be laughter and love in my future. I smile brightly, feeling a sense of safety and security knowing that someone older and wiser has got my back.
As an eighty-four-year-old, I sit with a lifetime of experiences and memories. The words spoken to me evoke a mixture of emotions, and I can't help but reflect on the journey I have traveled. I take a deep breath, allowing the weight of those lost and cherished moments to wash over me. The reminder to cherish the present and let go of hurt resonates deeply, as I have learned the importance of forgiveness and embracing the joy that life offers.
A smile forms on my weathered lips as I think about the people I have loved and the dreams I have chased. Some dreams may have slipped through my fingers, but the ones I caught brought immense fulfillment. The qualities of generosity, warmth, and compassion that defined my character bring a sense of pride and contentment.
With the knowledge that everything in life is temporary, I feel a gentle acceptance wash over me. I am grateful for the memories, the lessons, and the relationships that have shaped me into who I am today. As I sit in the twilight of my years, I am reassured that, in the end, it was indeed all about the joy and the journey.
