The passage
of time is a curious thing. When we engage in mindful parenting, we
perceive time to pass more slowly. Perhaps this is because we
absorb more of the moment. When we reflect on moments lived
mindfully, our recollection is vivid and full of life.
In contrast,
when we lose ourselves in the moment or when we tend toward automatic
behavior, time escapes us and the moment is lost.
Today, open
awareness to the moment as if you were reflecting on it from some
future time. Pick a distant time that resonates with you -- perhaps
when you are retired, perhaps when you are frail and approaching the
end of your life.
At some time today when you are with or thinking
about your child, imagine yourself experiencing this future
time. Sense the environment and yourself, as if the
imagined time were actually taking place. Breathe deeply
and relax; settle into that moment. Then, look around and observe
what is taking place in the present. Your mind may want to jump
back and forth. That is okay.
This is a passive exercise.
You are noticing what is happening. But you are noticing
it from a future point in time. After a few minutes, let go
of the future perspective and land squarely in the present moment. That time will come sure enough. But you are here, now. Live the present moment with such awareness that should you reflect
on it years from now, your memory is as vital and vivid as the moment
passing before you eyes.
