Becoming present mindfully!

The Sun was hidden in the clouds. However the colours in the sky were brilliant and breath holding!

I looked around to notice flowers in the garden!

That brought another surprise. They were quietly present bringing colourfulness to the garden.

 

The exuberance of colours in nature!

I have had time recently to observe behaviours of adults. I noticed that there is a tendency to project oneself to feel accepted and acknowledged. This is a compulsive pattern in some adults. To be seen, heard and noticed is a desire we carry within. When it becomes compulsive it can make us look odd. 

I kept looking at the Lillies in bloom in our garden yesterday. I was in for a surprise. 

I noticed a butterfly resting on a Lily. It stayed there for a while in a restful posture. 

That brought another way of being present! In a quiet way, without wanting to be noticed!

Each of us is present in our situations by our being and doing. Many go through life by being themselves in a quiet way. Some make, what they do, as the visible mark of their identity. 

I took time yesterday to dwell on this aspect of human behaviour. The butterfly when silently present, receives its nectar and contributes to pollination. It is a way of being, by receiving and giving. 

The rhythm of living is receiving and giving. To be grateful for what we receive and being spontaneous in giving would become a habit, when we feel more relational. 

Often, others wait to receive small acts of thoughtfulness. When we went to bring back home Daphne after her surgery and hospital stay, she came near us wagging her tail. When we stroked her, she was comfortable and quiet. During our car drive home, what she needed was a touch and stroke from Anna.  

The way of giving is often not costly to us. It calls for readiness to be kind and attentive to the needs around. A brochure I received yesterday on mindful listening, stated that in active listening, we give our gift of attention and presence to the other person. 

The Sun was present with its radiance. The flowers were present with their colourfulness. The butterfly was present with its stillness. Each of these brought something to bring cheer to the beholder! 

I thought to myself, being present mindfully is a gift I can offer!

M.C.Mathew (text and photo)