“To finish the moment, to find the journey’s end in every step of the road, to live the greatest number of good hours is wisdom.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
We traverse through this life we are living. It is a journey for each of us. A unique and very personal journey, one that touches upon the paths our lives travel. No two paths are the same, each of us living a personal experience with our life.
A personal experience with YOUR life. Are you being with that experience?
This Trail of Life
Our world is filled with much natural beauty. Part of that connection to soul, for me, is in the experiencing of this beauty. One could say that if we look deeply enough, there is beauty all around. I step outside and experience the grass between my toes. I watch as a leaf gently falls from a mighty oak. The wind blows against my face. The sun warms my skin…my soul…
A recent experience with nature was a moving experience. And the thing is — had I known what lie ahead of me, I would have chose a different path.
The scene: Acadia National Park, Maine. July 2010.
Daybreak ushered in a beautiful day (perhaps they all are, in there very own special way). This particular day brought sunshine, some light puffy clouds, and a coolness amongst the rising warmth of the sun. A beautiful day for choosing a trail into the expansive wilderness of our natural world.
…and a trail on this journey through life…
The Beehive Trail. Marked as a strenuous hike. How “strenuous” could this really be, though?
It all began easily enough…a rocky path into the woods.
Then we took a turn. A turn toward something much different than just a “hike in the woods”…hiking straight up the side of a rock cliff. In fact, that cliff ended up being a granite peak reaching 500 feet up. A path maybe two feet wide, snaking up the side of a vertical rock face. Use of hands became as important as feet, as the trail narrowed and involved grasping rocks to continue the climb up. Five hundred feet on a flat surface seems so short. Five hundred feet, straight up…something altogether different.
Perhaps my hiking experience is limited. Perhaps there are more challenging hikes out there in this world.
Perhaps this truly was a challenging hike.
What I do know: That experience, the hiking of this trail, was being in the moment like nothing I’ve experienced in some time. I clung to each step I was taking. I noticed the sweat dripping from my forehead. I felt the formation of the rocks. I focused on “the moment”.
And in that — a lesson. I can say I’m “in the moment” at any time during my days. Am I, though? Am I really in that moment.
Fully.
Or am I wavering in and out of that moment (like this very moment right now).
You see…our life is made up of moments. Millions of moments. Strung together, they become the journey that is our life.
Our ONE LIFE (that I am aware of).
So, think about this. You are in your ONE LIFE, your one very precious life. Now.
“For a long time it had seemed to me that life was about to begin — real life. But there was always some obstacle in the way. Something to be got through first, some unfinished business, time still to be served, a debt to be paid. Then life would begin. At last it dawned on me that these obstacles were my life.” ~ Fr. Alfred D’Souza
A life that is made up of moments. Some are big and grand moments. Some are more ordinary moments. Ordinary…except they are not. They are not ordinary because they are completely YOURS.
How are you choosing to “be” within the moments that make up your life? In ALL of the moments…
Reflecting Back
As I reflect now upon the moments that were my time on that Beehive Trail, I fully know that I am not always there…in that place of full connection with the moment. The time invested in traversing this trail was a life lesson in what full connection is all about. That’s not always a simple place to “be”, in the ordinary moments that make up our days. Perhaps in those moments that offer something extraordinary, this is easier.
What about all those other moments that make up our day, our week, our life?
“Try not. Do or do not, there is no try.” ~ Yoda
Do this…in your life. Really experience the moment. Each moment…even just for a few minutes.
Getting out of bed. Pouring that first cup of coffee. Answering the phone. Stopped in traffic. Making dinner. Paying your electric bill. Playing with your kids. Taking a walk with a friend.
A hike up the side of a steep cliff. Water skiing for the first time. The loss of a loved one. Hearing the words “You’ve got cancer”. Achieving a life-long dream.
These moments are YOUR LIFE. Let these moments become you. Experience them, as they happen. Moments that are the highest of highs. Moments that are the lowest of lows. And everything in between.
Your life.
“Carpe diem! Rejoice while you are alive; enjoy the day; live life to the fullest; make the most of what you have. It is later than you think.” ~ Horace
“Try not. Do or do not, there is no try.” ~ Yoda
Figures you would use a Yoda quote with this article
. The little guy is a real source of wisdom on being in the moment and acting.
Eduard,
Yoda sure is a wise one.…and…he looks pretty awesome, too!!
Hiking, YAY! Hiking can teach us a lot about ourselves. About how quickly we rush through life wishing to be somewhere else, how confident we are in our abilities, and how strong our bodies are even when our minds want to give up.
But when, as you say, you can be in it — the feel good and the not so feel good — that is experiencing life to the fullest.
One of the lessons I remember most from my training as a yoga instructor was when we learned about NLP and the instructor talked about the word “try”. As soon as you put that into your sentence, most likely you will not do what you say you’ll “try” to do…
Stacey Shipman´s Last Fabulous Post ..Summer Reading– Substitute Me by Lori Tharps
Hey Stacey,
Hiking rocks, doesn’t it!! Hey…and I WAS hiking on ROCKS!! (ha!)
Something about wandering around in our natural world sure does touch upon some deeper parts of our being (as well as some just plain fun things, too!). The idea of “rushing” through life…so fitting to this climb — one that I wasn’t about to rush at all…one that I very deliberately planted each foothold (and handhold).
And the thing that I kept coming back to afterward — how I was so “in” all of the moments of this particular hike. Which also makes me believe even more — it’s not about the destination (although the “peak” was amazing), it’s about the journey…
And — I found myself typing the word “try” as I first wrote this.…and then really felt it wasn’t the right message (…which led to the Yoda quote!)…
Happy hiking!! And maybe someday…our paths shall connect on a trail somewhere out there in this great big world…
A lovely lovely thoughtful and nourishing post. Thanks!
Lady Fi´s Last Fabulous Post ..Castle ruins
Lady Fi,
Thank YOU!
Hi Lance.
Sounds like that invigorating hike inspired you. Those moments that come upon us that we don’t expect, and when we dive into them fully are the most rewarding. I’m assuming there was an element of risk and you chose to trust in the moment. Lots of sweat, yes, and lots of adrenaline… and lots of appreciation. This whole being in the moment concept is interesting. Some moments present themselves to us and we decide to choose them; others, we have no choice so we choose our perspective, (if we’re lucky to not choose the victim role). When we choose the moment that is presented and we choose to experience it fully as you did, that makes memories.
Davina,
Yes, that hike certainly did inspire me! In the moment, though…I crossed paths with many different emotions (from fear to elation…and a bunch in between).
This was definitely an unexpected moment…the trail (if I can really call it that) we traversed. Risk…was very much there. One wrong step to the right…and it was a fall straight down (anywhere from a few feet to a few hundred feet).
Perspective. Such a good word to go along with our moments. We always can choose the perspective we’ll take.
And this is very much a memory that myself and my whole family will always have…
I come from the Yoda school of thought. I do beleive that you need to do, to be, there is no try. My father always says this, so it is ingrained in my psyche…“Life is not a dress rehearsal.” And to someone who appreciates the value of live performance and has been in many, this rings true. You don’t get a second chance. You need to live in that moment, be that moment. I am so glad that you were in that moment on that cliff.…if you weren’t, if you were distracted or thinking of things other than the next foothold or which rock looks most secure, you might not be here to share this story. Thank you for your inspiration today, Lance! You always make me pause and think.
Enjoy the day!
Erin
Erin Prais-Hintz´s Last Fabulous Post ..The Blackbird Sat
Erin,
Hey Yoda girl!! Your father is a wise man…
This is it. This is our life…now…
And you know, that’s so true. One wrong step on this trail…and it was a fall that I don’t want to even think about.
Keep always living on the stage that is YOUR life! Erin, you always bring a smile…
That Ralph Waldo Emerson quote is a classic!
I am going to try and get my wife interested in hiking next spring. Goals, gotta have goals.
Patrick´s Last Fabulous Post ..Day 122 — If only
Patrick,
Each step of our life is a journey.…and a part of the journey of our lives. (I love that Emerson quote, too)
Hiking is such a fun activity. And the thing is — you can choose at which level you want to do this — from easy to more challenging. Some of the most beautiful hikes I’ve been on have been just a nice easy walk…
Brilliant as usual. I am on a quest to “be here now” in my life — to not just rush through the moments to get to the next thing. For me that means I had to change a lot of behaviors that I acquired that kept me from living in the moment.
Lori,
Thank you.
I know that I sometimes get caught up in what I should be doing, or what’s happened last week (or five minutes ago). And when I do — the “moment” is lost. So, I love how you’ve stated this — to not rush through these moments which are our life.
Lori, I love these thoughts you’ve shared here today.
Beautiful Lance…the moment, the thought, the mind and us..if we’re in the moment, thats all there is isn’t it..who are we then??
Uzma,
Thank you. The moment…it’s all we really have. How are we choosing to let the moment be?? That’s the question for me.…
Very nice, Lance!
You have to remember:
You have to remember
the days of your past
The many tomorrows whose fates have been cast.
The future behind you from where it once lay
serves to remind you
See the moment
Seize the day!
Dr. J,
Love the saying!!
Seize the day!!
It’s this moment we can’t escape, but we seem to want to avoid it. I know I try to stay in the moment, but find myself unconsciously distracting myself with my thoughts.
The more I meditate the better I get at staying in the moment. You are right we have to enjoy where we are otherwise we aren’t living our lives. We are distracting ourselves from engaging in life.
We are all on a journey be it a hike, cancer, or a sip of coffee. We can choose to enjoy or be distracted. It’s really our choice.
Karl,
The moments of our life.…we indeed live them. The thing is — do we really open ourselves to these moments.…to really “live” them…to experience them fully. It’s so easy not to — to drift in and out of the moments of our life — distracted by what has already happened, or by what we see that lies ahead.
When we do that — when we drift out of the moment — we lose the fullness of that moment.
Karl, thank you…my friend. Your words have much meaning for me as I read them tonight.
Lance, your posts always leave me with a loss for words… so much in them to think about & learn about… I really loved this.… I will share t at some point of course just not sure when.. when it is right & in the moment.
I have a post Thursday that will make living in the moment, living each day a slap of hard reality.… come on by.… a guest story that is hard to hear but hopefully will put in perspective life for some people.
Thx Lance!
Jody — Fit at 52´s Last Fabulous Post ..Age is NO EXCUSE!
Jody,
You have a wonderful way of touching my heart…thank you.
And — I will stop by on Thursday to see what you have to share…
Wow!! This is written with great passion. I LOVE IT!! And your writing itself is beauuuutiful, dear Lance. So heartfelt. I could really FEEL you in this one. Intensely so. I feel you pumping out all the intense feelings and passion you have inside right into us (the reader). Magnificent!! It’s real, raw and earnest. Very refreshing to read.
As I read more and more, it hit me that I think for most of us we are “waiting to live”, and it starts at a very young age. We are waiting for Christmas and “Santa” to bring our presents, we are waiting until we can start dating and go to a dance with our boyfriend, we are waiting to get into high school, waiting to graduate HS, waiting to leave home and go to college, waiting to graduate college, waiting to get that great job, waiting to get married, waiting to get that new house, car, vacation, and on it goes. We are never taught to simply be in the moment.
Not that it’s bad to want things or have amazing goals and dreams, but we often focus on them to the exclusion of living THIS MOMENT. As I kept reading it hit me that for me, it’s almost like I have to live as if I have no future goals or dreams and all I am is “right now”.…..WHILE I still work toward and live my dreams. How I do this is to continually bring myself back to this moment. When I am working on my dream, then yes, I am doing physical things that need doing, BUT that doesn’t mean I have to ignore THIS MOMENT. In fact, I have to continually come back to the moment and make sure I am living RIGHT NOW. Not waiting for happiness, joy, or waiting to live once my dreams come true. No, I can’t do that; I would waste my precious life.
Oddly, it’s very simple for me to come back to the moment and live right not, grasp every detail of right now, be grateful for all that occurs in this single moment. For me it’s a living meditation. I do it over and over all day long. The key for me is that I have to REMEMBER to do it, and to NOT get ahead of myself thinking about “when this happens, THEN I will really live, etc.” No, just do it RIGHT NOW. I am so glad you wrote this. It is something I know I will keep with me and remember more due to your story, which is amazing by the way. YOU are amazing. So much love to you. Robin. I am grateful.
It’s the end of the day, so I’m not too sure how clear I am here, but it doesn’t matter. What matters is that you are truly beautiful and I am so grateful you shared this. I could never have enough reminders of this. And you story touched me deeply. You are all goodness, Lance, and I am so glad you are my friend.
Robin,
As I read your wonderful and caring comment, I’m first drawn into the thought of waiting…which starts at a young age for so many of us. Like Christmas, there is an anticipation that comes from looking forward to what’s coming. And in that anticipation…truly there is a moment too. That is perhaps what we don’t always see. Just like the planning for this trip — there was an anticipation that I felt. Was I fully in that moment, though…letting that anticipation *really* engulf me? (I’m not so sure…)
A “living meditation”…what a beautiful and wonderful thought. Even if it’s just for a few seconds…to bring back into this moment…so worth it.
Robin, thank you for all you have shared here. Your words land upon my soul. And knowing you, and your deep connection to nature…having you here today is even more meaningful. Your beauty shines out so lovingly…always. I am touched by this love of yours in so many amazing ways. Peace always…dear friend…
Dear Lance,
This was one of the best posts I’ve read. I love the way you shared from your real experience on clinging onto that steep path with fingers and toes… and the learning you gained from it. I’m now feeling the air on my skin as I type this, all the background sounds, and really being in the moment. Thanks for reminding me to do this!
Daphne,
So, so wonderful to have you here today!
And as I read your words…I too am taking in all that surrounds me…at this very space in time. So, I thank you for that — for sharing what you did has also helped me to be more connected to this very moment for me.
Much peace,
Lance
Oh Lance…dear sweet freind.…You almost always bring me to tears with your passion. In this post you have so beautifully captured the true essence of this very gorgeous precious moment. I love it!
This whole post , while i was reading it, felt like a warm blanket of soothing love. You are tremendously soulful…and it can be felt right here where I sit.…oceans apart, but right now in this very moment, there is no distance. Just a sense of calm…and this place…your blog..your writing..and most of all you.…You are just amazing!
I’m so so lucky to have connected with you…
So much Love,
Z~
Zeenat{Positive Provocations}´s Last Fabulous Post ..What is in Your Happiness Checklist
Zeenat,
We are connected…we are one…
…and the oceans don’t separate us. Zeenat, I feel, very deeply, this connection to you and to the love that shines from your soul. You have such a beautiful way of shining that goodness everywhere.
And today, here, your words hold deep meaning. What a gift they are for me — as I let them settle upon my soul.
Peace and love always,
Lance
Hi Lance,
How are you my friend?
Moments are what we live for.
It is beautiful to see that “a moment” can be interpreted and felt differently for each of us.
When we are rushing:
–We did not have time to take a moment to kiss our loved ones or feel their lips on our cheek
–We did not have time to take a moment to really breath in the fresh air of the morning and to witness a beautiful sunrise.
–We did not have time to take a moment to realize if we are truly happy inside before embarking on our daily routines of work, family, leisure.
When we take our time:
–We get to soak in and smell freshness all around us after the rain has finished.
–We get to witness a smile and sparkles in our loved one’s eyes, letting us know that they miss us and care for us.
–We then get a chance to learn about ourselves, others and the wondrous nature that is around us.
Just remember to take the time to really embrace the “moments” that brings meaning into your life and to cherish each moment as if it could be your last.
Vincent,
It’s great having you here.…know that it brings a smile to my face!
And so well said — what you have shared here. When we rush, we miss out on the moments…the real beauty in these moments. The *life* within these moments. And rushing…it’s so easy to do.
How much are we truly missing? Something very much worth letting soak into our soul.
Thanks much, my friend…
Lance, this is probably my favorite of your posts.
Your passion rings forth so loudly that I know what you were experiencing as you wrote it. The conviction you felt seated itself more deeply than before, and quiet understanding will forever be anchored within. Your illustration of the concept through your hike is a perfect visual because the tenseness of the moment brought everything surrounding it into sharp relief. What a memorable visual for the lesson.
And you’ve shared a valuable reminder: that to be fully living our moments isn’t meant for only the good or the exciting times; withdrawing our awareness from the trying times causes us to miss seeing so many aspects of these experiences that could be to our benefit. In fully knowing ourselves in relationship to every moment, we retain our personal creative powers; we choose how to respond to what the moment offers. When aware, we respond with a measure of safety and grace; when seeing with narrower vision, we are less grounded. Fully living any moment… How well we learn to do this in the good times serves us well in the hard times.
Lance, you inspire. Beautifully.
Love, ~Julie
Julie´s Last Fabulous Post ..Existence
Julie,
You are so sweet…thank you, very deeply, for this today. And even more, for your wonderful and caring friendship.
This moment (or perhaps.…many, many moments upon the cliffside climb) was one that kept me completely focused upon each step along that journey. Completely. And in that — I truly just felt everything more. The way my hands felt upon the rocks. The sun upon my face. The trees growing out from the rock surfaces. Everything. So in each moment…
Julie, this was so easy to be in these moments. And it was because in it, I felt life. Or perhaps…that I was clinging on for dear life… And it really made me think — how can I more deeply experience this…always. In all the moments that make up any of my days.
Awareness…a beautiful subject you have touched upon. When we really focus on our own awareness…we can move more fully into these moments.
Julie, it feels so right to have you here and reading this. As I type this right now, I am also thinking of you, and of your own love for nature.
Peace and love,
Lance
Lance, what an amazing experience you had that it brought you to such an awareness. Thank you for sharing. You’re right, the moment is all we have and yet, as you ask, are we really in it? It’s not easy but the great hikes of life bring us closer. Here’s to great hikes, whatever they may be and wherever they may bring us on our journey. Much gratitude for your lovely words.
Katie´s Last Fabulous Post ..A Simple Guide to Living Life with Wild Abandon
Katie,
I believe very much that is was the fear…the realization that one wrong step would be disastrous…that kept me so focused on these moments…that really brought the awareness that kept that focus.
So…how to do that more fully in our every day lives. In all the moments we have…
Like the hike up this mountain…life is like that. Some moments are challenging, some give us great elation, and some are very much mundane. In all of them, though, the more we can be fully in these moments, the more we are truly *living* our life…
Katie, thank you for your words…and for your presence here…
Quoting Emerson and Yoda in the same piece — love it. I enjoyed this a great deal.
“You see…our life is made up of moments. Millions of moments” and each one a trailhead for new opportunities.
I will definitely return.
Roy,
Emerson and Yoda…two greats in our world!
.…a trailhead for new opportunities…YES indeed!! Our moments are what we make them to be…
Great having you here!
Hi Lance
What a “moment” indeed this hike turned out to be!
Wow Lance, I love this experience you had. Nature does allow us to feel more deeply and feel more of our “being” just by being immersed in it. But nature also has a way of giving us exceptional experiences and opportunities to grow, and to experience ourselves at our deepest core level.
All these moments are precious and although a strenuous mountain hike will perhaps “force” us into true being in the moment, all the other examples you listed can be just as enchanting and transforming — we have the choice of how we will choose to travel at every step of the way…
Evita´s Last Fabulous Post ..Making Progress– Not Just Change
Evita,
This hike started out as just a place for our kids to climb on some rocks (the start of the path…which was very gradual…was big boulder to climb over). It quickly turned into something much different. And each person in our family had a uniquely individual experience. For our two boys — the whole trail was like a great big jungle gym to climb…and FUN! For my wife — it was an exhilarating climb. For my daughter and I…it was very much a challenge, especially the higher we went. Still — once we reached the summit, what a feeling of accomplishment — and especially in having been fully in the moments of the whole climb — that just made it all that much more meaningful.
Nature is beautiful. And dangerous. And safe. And filled with so much to see and absorb. Much like life, wouldn’t you say?
Evita, I know how deeply nature touches your soul. In fact, as I type this, I’m thinking of a particular picture of you…fully taking in the beauty of our natural world. …and I smile…
Much peace,
Lance
Hi Lance,
I’ve noticed that my greatest spiritual moments are practical moments. When I am doing the dishes I am doing the dishes… I am able to say “aha” and experience that ONENESS. Just like clinging to the side of a rock is a very practical moment so you don’t fall off! I like to say, If it ain’t practical, it ain’t spriritual.
Rob,
I LOVE IT!! What a great way to be fully connected to *you*. And in that…all moments can become part of our spiritual being…here in this human life we are living…
I love this post. For me, life all comes down to “being.” Sounds so simple, but quite difficult. As others, I also love the Yoda quote…he was really quite wise.
ClinicallyClueless´s Last Fabulous Post ..Hidden Pieces threats and control
Clinically Clueless,
Ahh.…yes…“being”.…
So simple, and yet so challenging to fully fully in that place. When we are, though, I believe we more fully connect to love, to ourselves, and to each other.…
Peace,
Lance
Lance:
I couldn’t agree with you more…I have discovered in recent years that many of life’s greatest moments are not the big, grandiose moments of vacations, victories, celebrations, etc. But sometimes the simple moments of sipping coffee in silence before the sun rises or at the coffee shop with jazz music playing in the background. In the world of work I hear so many people wishing that it would be Friday. While I can understand why someone would think this way…isn’t that just wishing your life away? Thanks for the reminder that each moment really is precious!
Tim´s Last Fabulous Post ..The Magic of Diagramming Sentences
Tim,
That’s really it…our life…now…in this moment. Sure, the bigger things can be meaningful. It’s our every day, though…that truly becomes us. And when we open up to being fully within these moments, too — what a beautiful way to truly *know* ourselves.
And — I know exactly what you are saying about the wishing for a Friday (or any other day of the week, for that matter). When we do, we’re completely missing *this moment*. And we’re letting life slip by…
Love what you have shared today, Tim. Thank you for these words, and for your meaningful friendship…
What I love about this post about staying in the moment, is your writing style. You write in such a way that it commands us to stay in the moment, my heart was beating so fast as you took me on the challenging hike with you! Very effective way to get your point across, we practice staying in the moment as we read your find writing. Thanks Lance!
Audra,
You are so sweet and wonderful (did you know that???)!! Well…I’ve known that for quite a while!!
Audra, your words always find a way of landing upon my heart. And in that, I find an even deeper connection to you…to our one-ness…and to the beauty of life…
Much peace…
Such a great article and important lesson Lance. I really appreciated the quote by –Alfred D’Souza, what a reality check. I like to say (especially in self-talk) that “right now is always my favorite time of day.” It reminds me of the importance of “the Moment.” Oh, by the way, when your hands and feet play an equal role in forward (especially vertical) movement, it’s not a hike anymore — it’s a climb. But I love it when a persons perspective allows them to see it as a hike. It’s the opposite of making mountains out of mole hills.
Jonathan — Advanced Life Skills´s Last Fabulous Post ..Success – Is it Worth the Risk
Jonathan,
That Alfred D’Souza quote really felt so meaningful to this post. It’s NOW that we have. How are we using this moment, this very one right now?
Ah, yes…it did very much feel like a climb (and in fact, was, in spots). And I love how that all relates to life, too…and how we can choose our perspective…always…
Jonathan, you embody this concept of really living within the moment…and seeing with a perspective of love and grace…
A wonderful lesson, Lance. Yes — carpe diem. I try my best to remember that.
Lynn´s Last Fabulous Post ..Next– all the rage and bright and shining
Lynn,
This moment.…it is ours! Now!! (…and I too must work at this, to fully remember that…)
Lance,
It’s always exciting to come to your blog and read your words.
But especially this time, because you bring vividly alive for me the unique gift that each moment can be.
Looked at just from an outer standpoint it might not seem I am doing anything very exciting just at the moment. I’m certainly not in a live or die contest with a mountain. No, just sitting at a computer screen writing to a friend named Lance.
But as I do this simple task I sense something that is part of the task but is much greater: a sense of connection with you and what you stand for that is timeless. It’s in this moment but it’s timeless. What sort of miracle is that?
Christopher,
This particular hike…it was one that very much brought to the forefront of my being — these moments. And this was a one-time, non-normal thing.
How about those more daily moments? Like as I sit here right now and reply back to you? Can I be fully in that moment? Am I?
So now…right now…I feel that connection to you, Christopher. And I know very much that you have felt this, when you left your comment. And what a beautiful miracle that is! It is…when we allow ourselves to fully experience these moments.…
Peace,
Lance
Hello Lance,
WOW. Lance, your passion really comes through in this post. What you write resonates strongly in my heart. You and I share an intense love of nature, how it speaks to us and the energy that washes over us when we connect with it. I think you and I could just sit in the woods somewhere and not utter one word. But we’d still “get it”. Know what I mean?
What an experience you had on this hike! I can feel the adrenaline as your path narrowed and “clinging” became a necessity! How inspirationally-scary-cool– this hike must have been for you. I just know you gleaned so much from it.
Oh, by the way.….. with you I am on the Yoda quote!
Keith,
I’ve really witnessed your love for our natural world…and for all that it speaks. Seeing this in you…what a gift.
Nature speaks. She speaks in her own time, in her own language… Still, when we fully immerse ourselves in her…we hear her words…feel her spirit…and are touched by her language.
This particular hike very much had an element of “scary” in it. And I believe that this played a large part in how fully connected to the moment I was. And it’s left me thinking about how I can more fully keep that experience…the experience of being within that moment…alive always…
And that Yoda guy…pretty wise character!!
Keith, I look forward to that day when our paths cross in a very in-person way…
Your description and deliberate steps and hand holds are so much like life in the difficult times. Isn’t it true we stop and really reach and seek the answers and the way?
Those moments that we really get it. That we really stop and feel each microscopic breath of air in our lungs. Those are valuable and freeing.
Great post Lance. I retweeted but I guess Jason was signed in. Oops.
I’ll retweet from my account too.
Angelia Sims´s Last Fabulous Post ..Wordful Wednesday– Engaging
Angelia,
I love how you have related this back to the difficult times in life. Yes, this WAS difficult for me. The thing is — once I reached the peak, I felt complete peace. Really — a very deep and meaningful peace. And had I not fully experienced the “challenges” of that day, I know that feeling of peace would have looked much different. And perhaps that’s with life, too. When we fully experience all the moments of our being, we can then more fully connect also to a deeper peace within.
Angelia, thank you so much for this — your words are deeply meaningful today…
Very motivational entry..
Thank you.
Dear Lance, it is comforting to be reminded via this post and the comments that I am not the only one who is not always in The Moment. I guess we all are journeying to better ourselves in our own ways.
That sounds like one incredible hike and epiphany. Your peacefulness and passion shine through here.
Each moment is a gift unfolding.
This moment tells me soon I shall be going to bed.
xo
Jannie Funster´s Last Fabulous Post ..Doesn’t EVERYBODY Practice Guitar In Their Bikini
Jannie,
I hope you have fully connected with your pillow (I know that I sure did last night!).
Yes…being in our moments.…not always so easy. Just even being fully aware of the moment…and then to take it to that next level…of moving from awareness of the moments presence, to being really “in” that moment. A journey, really, for all of us…
Maine is a beautiful state (close to your homeland!) and it was such a wonderful visit to this peaceful part of our world. That was heightened by moments like this, being fully within the moment.
Jannie, thank you…always…for the gift of JOY and LOVE you bring to our world…
Oh, wow, this is beautiful! Thank you, Lance. Exquisitely said…also especially love the Yoda quote
Naomi Estment´s Last Fabulous Post ..African Elephant on the Charge!
Naomi,
Thank you so much for your caring words. And I know also how deeply connected to our natural world that you are…and how you put yourself within that space. So wonderful to know you…
Be in the moment. One of the best pieces of advice I have ever received, yet the hardest to execute. There is a famous quote by Nietzche that goes “Look at the world as if time were gone and all that is crooked will become straight”. I think you’ve illustrated this quote nicely. Thanks!
Yu´s Last Fabulous Post ..Oh– Im Sorry– I Thought I Was Dreaming
Yu,
Yes, that’s it — taking this from a page like this and into our personal being. It’s hard for me, too. Especially in normal every day living…to be aware of the moments.…to let them become me…
And thank you for sharing the Neitzche quote.…
Lance!
Two thoughts:
1. This is a beautiful reminder; thank you!
2. I’m so glad I wasn’t on that hike with you. (smile)
Happiest Thursday!
Megan “JoyGirl!” Bord´s Last Fabulous Post ..New Web Site
Megan,
Two more thoughts:
1. You…have a wonderful way to expressing LOVE!! (and I smile…knowing your presence is here…)
2. You would have done awesome on this hike! (did I tell you they had ice cream at the top??) (okay…maybe that’s a lie…)
Happy Thursday, indeed.…sweet, sweet friend…
Lance,
This is the essence of the journey this year of living inspired and wide awake. It isn’t easy to stay in that place 100% of the time, not even 10% of the time, but the dedication and the intention, the focus on trying…it changes your life.
It’s like the scripture that says pray without ceasing. To be living in a constant state of prayer. Not to SAY a prayer…but to BECOME a prayer. That’s what I am discovering. The moment we can tap into that space that is part of the being the moment…we are a part of the universal magic of everything…and we ARE the prayer. So, so, so very hard to explain. Yet somehow, I know you get it. I love being on this journey with you, my dear dear friend.
Oh, and by the way, since comments were closed, I loved the How to be alone video. Just simply Brilliant.
Wendi,
“Wide Awake”. I immediately think of Christine Kane, and her “Wide Awake” CD…of which I also know you are a fan of her beautiful music. And that’s just a great term — because it really feels like we are awakening to something more…from the slumber of just existing.…
And to “become a prayer”.…Wendi, that is absolutely moving. The thought alone feels like a deeper connection to both soul and Source. And what a beautiful place to come from. (I do get it…and I love the visual in my heart right now…)
Wendi, your being here is very meaningful…and know also that I see you, too, as a dear and caring friend.
Much peace…always,
Lance
Lance,
Yes, Christine, is not only the source of that term and my favorite CD and favorite female vocalist. She is also my mentor. I have signed up for her Uplevel Your Life Coaching program and find it to be very life affirming. I am very excited to be going to a retreat of hers this fall as well. My commitment to living Wide Awake this year is a very, very powerful one. It’s life changing and when I listen to her CD, the music reaffirms it for me every day. It really helps to keep me re-charged.
Thanks for your kind words Lance, they mean a great deal. Hugs!
Wendi,
How awesome that you are signed up for Christine Kane’s life coaching program!! And — her retreat!! I want to hear all about that experience!!!
Have a wonderful weekend!
Big hugs right back to you, sweet friend…
Hi Lance .. I had an experience like — except I was terrified .. just a hike — well to me it was a worry .. but I survived I’m here .. it wasn’t straight up the beanstalk towards heaven .. it was jumping over a cliff into deep water — they said you will come up .. I did .. but my golly — swimming isn’t my favourite at the best of times, nor jumping in .. not from the dizzy heights this was ..
But I absolutely take your point about utilising every muscle to achieve the next step and ultimately the goal ahead .. be in the moment .. but the short phrase that rang true .. is:
It is later than you think.” ~ Horace
That is so true .. sadly! .. remember now is now and can never be repeated ..
Have a good weekend — with thoughts Hilary
Hilary´s Last Fabulous Post ..Under Sea Sussex – Tompot Blenny– Piddock– Devonshire Cup Corals and Jewel Anemones
Hilary,
Yes, this was, in a way — a terrifying experience for me, too. Certainly, there were moments that bordered on that!!
And — I applaud you for what you did, too!! That’s one that scares me, too — cliff jumping into water (which I have not done, even though I have had the opportunity).
Now…it truly is the time to LIVE our lives…
You too, have a wonderful weekend…
Hi Lance — thanks for this — I spent my share of time in Acadia when I was a kid, and I remember — although it may have been just because I was small — that there were a number of trails where it seemed like I needed to jump from rock to rock to avoid a long fall. That’s the kind of thing that will keep you in the present moment for sure!
Chris,
Wow, that had to be pretty awesome — Acadia as a kid (on several occasions!!)!!
The rocks there are pretty awesome (and big!!)! Glad you had the opportunity to explore this amazing place!
Hi Lance,
“You see…our life is made up of moments. Millions of moments. Strung together, they become the journey that is our life.”
I’ve read many articles about living the moment, but that short explanation you give sums up all of them in such a simple but powerful way. If we life each moment fully engaged, by the end of our lives we can look back and say “what a ride!”
Raul
Raul,
What a ride indeed!! All of the moments of our life…ALL of them…that is what truly makes up our life.
It’s great to have you here today!
A most inspirational piece and one that I can happily resonate with MORE — all the quotes, all the advice, all the discoveries along your path, Lance, it’s so true — This is it. This is our life. There is no grand entrance of curtains lifting when we are read…This is it and when we realize that, there is some regret about our silly attitude before but most of all, a determination to stay on course and to live in the moment going forward. Oh you are made to become a yogini!
Farnoosh´s Last Fabulous Post ..Yoga Flow Series 6– Tapping into Energy
Farnoosh,
Our life is now. So easy to say. Are we really living that, though…being fully in the moments that are our life? I believe we all have glances at what this looks like, yet — are we really doing this consistently? Perhaps it’s part of our journey…and one I believe very much that you embody very well. I just get a deep sense of you connection to YOU…and in that.…to all that makes up the life you are living (and that is a beautiful thing…).
Okay…and I’ll let you know how this new path of discovery proceeds (…and you are super kind and sweet — thank YOU!!).
I love, love, love prose that emanates the beauty of nature. Ever since I took a nature writing class, I’ve been captivated by writing like yours. It brings me peace, stirs the heartstrings, and lifts my spirits in ways I can’t ever explain. Thank you for sharing your beautiful work.
Amanda´s Last Fabulous Post ..Placing My Order to the Universe
Amanda,
Great to “meet” you!
Nature is such a beautiful example of life, isn’t it! And in that, too — I very much feel peace and calm. Perhaps it’s how nature works…at her speed, not at ours. And in that, when we truly let that become a part of us, we are more aligned with our own true heart.
Thank you so much for your kind and caring words.
“…I reflect now upon the moments that were my time on that Beehive Trail…”
My best time of reflecting is while hiking. There is nothing that replaces the serenity of a hike in nature. We tend to get out more than a few times a week as we have a few hiking trails we enjoy.
Colleen´s Last Fabulous Post ..Pasco Washington Offers Recreational Activities for Adults
Colleen,
Nature sure has a way of providing something deep and meaningful…and serenity in the moments. There is a peace of seeing nature coexisting with all that is there…
Keep on savoring those wonderful hike you have to go on!!
There’s nothing like holding on for dear life to focus you in the moment
What I’ve found with steep trails is sometimes it’s not the way up that’s the problem, it’s making your way back down. I’ve been surprised by this more than a few times.
J.D. Meier´s Last Fabulous Post ..Day 21 — Carry the Good Forward and Let the Rest Go
JD,
You know what.…that thought crossed my mind as we we making this climb — what about the way down!! It just even more challenging. Luckily, there was another trail at the top which was much, much more gradual in the descent. (and I was one happy camper about that!)
So worth it, though — this climb and all it touched upon…
I am so very glad I took a few of my moments and spent them here today! It’s not a dress rehearsal, is it? So count me in one giving my moments the worth and attention they deserve…that I deserve.
Clearly Composed´s Last Fabulous Post .. Balance In Action
Emma,
So wonderful having you here today! No…this life we are living…right now…it’s definitely the real thing. I love the attitude that shines through here in your words, on your focus…in this moment…on this. Know that this also means very much to me…
Peace,
Lance
Hi Lance
Haven’t visited in ages… sorry!
Can’t believe how popular your site has become, so many comments.
Well deserved.
On life, I like the John Lennon quote…
“Life is what happens… whilst you’re busy making other plans.“
Keith Davis´s Last Fabulous Post ..Facts tell… emotions sell
Keith,
Great to see you here today! And…really…it’s great having you here whenever that works for you.
Thanks for the Lennon quote — life is always happening, isn’t it…
And thanks for all your support!
Thanks Lance
When I made my comment earlier I scrolled down to the comment box and scrolled, and scrolled.… eventually found it beneath all those great comments.
I won’t stay away so long in the future.
Keith Davis´s Last Fabulous Post ..Facts tell… emotions sell
Hi Lance,
It’s always a delight to visit your blog. I feel as if I’m dipping into a pool of deep, refreshingly cool water with your gentle reminders to live our lives fully. I’d like to add my own touch as a sort of “opposite” to balance both our masculine and feminine needs. Sometimes we need a gentle dip and sometimes we need one of those Cher love-slaps (remember scene in the movie Moonstruck?). Do you remember those Mennen Skin Bracer commercials from the 70s? “Thanks I needed that.” That’s what I have to say to you today — and your blog smells good too
Cheryl from thatgirlisfunny´s Last Fabulous Post ..Works Like a Cold Slap in the Face…Thanks! I Needed That
Cheryl!!
So, so GREAT to see you here today!!
Hey, I LOVE it — the LOVE slaps!!! (…and you’re taking me back a few years to those Mennen commercials…which I DO remember!) –> and thanks — I needed that!!
And thanks again — I’m really glad my blog *ahem* smells good!!!
Have a great one!