What do I mean my NOW and ZEN? We are entering a new decade, we just closed out 2000-2009, it's pretty amazing what has been accomplished in 10 short years. But it's time for change.
The past has passed and we can not change it. As we emerge into this new decade it's time to LET GO of all that has happened. It's gone. No matter how hard you think about it. No matter how many times you re-live moments, you will not be able to grasp them and edit them. They are what they are, no ifs, ans or buts about it. LET GO of the past and start living in the NOW.
The world is making a shift, there are so many changes happening daily, the horizon holds many new changes for each new day. But we must focus on today, not tomorrow. Grasp each second of each day as it is happening, and absorb it. As it passes, it is gone, and let it go and enjoy this fresh new second presented to you. Each breath is new life. Each moment is new time. Each day is NOW.
BUT, what is the key to flourishing in this new year, in this new decade? Be-ing NOW. How to be NOW? Being NOW is living in the current moment without thoughts of what was, or thoughts of what will be. Fully immersing yourself into this very moment.
For instance, can you read this blog and only read this blog? Is someone distracting you? Are you listening to the TV or radio in the background? Are you thinking of what you need to add to the shopping list? If you have any thoughts in your head other than the present task at hand, then you are not in the NOW.
Is it easy to be-now? NO. We are programmed from day one to think ahead, make plans, calculate outcomes and so on. Society has created a population of dwellers and worriers. The first step to being NOW is to come to the realization that you simply will not change the past no matter what, and that it does not serve you NOW. The next step to being NOW is to come to the realization that worrying about the future also does not serve you NOW.
Now on to Zen, meaning at once concentration, dynamic stillness, and contemplation. Basically Zen is one way to be NOW. Of course Zen is a 'way' of be-ing tied to the thought process.
So as we enter this brand new year in this brand new decade, I wish for thee Now and Zen in 2010! May your New Year be abundant with all good things, prosperous, healthy and happy. Focus on you, focus on now and be Now and Zen in 2010!
Alethea Anderson
Now and Zen baby!
