At the time of my life when i felt that things were at their worst - no job, anxiety, fear, and stress, i really struggled. As I started to come through this tunnel, my nana millie would always be there to support me. She was the words of wisdom and the rock that i could rely on to stop and rest with when things were feeling overwhelming.
I would go to her house and share my worries and she would say to me that i could only be in this moment - i can't change anything in the past and i don't know the future. Just be in this moment. i only have right now....
All the things i was feeling and worrying about may never and didn't happen, but for some, the worrying part of the brain is very powerful. Nana Millie, never seemed to worry about anything. There were life events for her that were devastating, but she remained gracious, composed and in the present moment. She would let things just wash over her and let them go. This is a hard thing to do, when our natural reaction is to hold on to the hurt that comes our way. Her philosophy probably had a lot to do with her living into the 90's and still being with it and eager to keep on living life right to the last moment.
I took nana millies advice and started to live in the moment. It takes a lot of effort to be right here, right now, but when you do, life opens up so much more. you don't worry as much, you don't let things get to you and you enjoy the moment for what it is.
I think this piece of advice was a turning point for me and helped me to live a better life and be a better person. On this journey of getting rid of some of the irritations that have begun to show their face, i am reminding myself that this is one of the most important things to remember. This and chapter 100 - Live this day as if it were your last. It might be!
Yep, words of wisdom, cause it what's we choose to do in those moments that matter.
In the book, my mate Dick has a couple of quotes that he throws out. One is from Mark Twain - I have been through some terrible things in my life - some of which actually happened. This was me, imagining every possible calamity. What a waste of time and energy.
So now, i take myself back to her words - just be in the present moment. It's not possible to be anywhere else. It takes effort and a conscious choice, but it is possible.
Nana Millie - in her late 80's.
Note to self: BE IN THE NOW. Make this moment count. See the positive rather than the negative, show love not anger, spread happiness not sorrow, laugh a lot, cry a little, be patient, not hurried, live a rich life that isn't driven by money, be super super silly and find a way to do the things you really want to do. Life will be better when.........when what, when you get to the end and you have done fuck all?
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