Present in the moment

Every time I stand before a beautiful beach, its waves seem to whisper to me: If you choose the simple things and find joy in nature’s simple treasures, life and living need not be so hard.
~ Psyche Roxas-Mendoza

Walking on the beach at sunset tonight, I noticed a lot of sand fleas (or some kind of little insects) flying frenetically along the water’s edge. I was glad for my shoes and socks and awed by their crazy energy. Their frantic activity made me think to STOP. To breathe in the autumn air, listen to the sound of the waves, take in the warm sunset, and let other cares just drift away.

Seeing those silly flies buzzing on the beach actually reminded me of a recent viral photograph. I think it was taken during the Pope’s visit, at least that’s when I first saw it circulating. In it, a crowd of people is gathered behind a security barricade obviously focused on some action out of frame to their right. Nearly every person in the photo is holding up a smart phone to take a picture of the event. But right up front is a lovely granny, with both arms resting on the barricade. She is looking at the action, taking it in, with a contented smile on her face – a clear exemplar of presence in the moment.

For this vacation, I want to walk ALL the beaches, to Take Lovely Photos, to Read Great Books, to Think Big Thoughts, to Dine Well, to find the Perfect Piece of Art for my dining room, to Make Important Plans. Sheesh! STOP!

The sound of the sea at Nausett Beach this morning was a perfect accompaniment to the noise in my head. The surf was so loud that the sound of individual waves crashing was lost in the cacophony. And yet it was truly peaceful and a spectacular walk.

While Nausett Beach was lovely, the books I was reading earlier today were somewhat disappointing; the galleries in Chatham where I window-shopped seemed less magical than usual; my dinner at a favorite restaurant was not up to par. But added to the plus side: I had a great night’s sleep in my cozy room; this morning’s breakfast was divine (especially the pear tart); I enjoyed the fall vibe rocking on the porch and reading this afternoon. And the sunset was… Simply. Awesome.

The disappointments are small compared to the inspiring beauty and soul-refreshing quiet. I have other books to read, more beaches to walk, and many points to ponder. I’m working on being present in the moment.

“Presence is more than just being there.” Malcolm Forbes