Profound Noticing

A very important topic. Thanks for posting, Laura. Mindfulness is especially difficult in our social media-driven society where attention spans are reduced and multitasking is rewarded, but by not paying attention to the NOW, we are existing in a netherworld that looks like real life, but actually is something merely parallel to it.

Corollary to this is the problem of content. Our minds are continuously bombarded with noise, lights, data, and we, in turn are encouraged to supply our own endless stream of content in the form of talk. But talking is not listening. And stillness and silence are the greatest teachers. But we are socialized to fear and be uncomfortable silence, to view it has something wrong and out of balance.

Silence isn't just negative space; it's communion between the conscious and subconscious minds. It's the connection between mind and spirit. By honoring silence, we can make our words and actions all the more impactful. Sometimes it is difficult to honor silence in an online chat.

My first question is, "are you still there?" Absent and body language or non-verbal cues, I wonder, did I offend the member? Did I do something wrong? Are they waiting for me to speak? But I am training myself to simply let members learn from their own silences by telling them, I'm still here and listening. That way, they have space to process their thoughts, find their words, or simply be still and reflect.

It isn't easy. My natural tendency is to feel impatient, and to be energetic and "ampedup" bur the more I allow silence to enter the conversations, the more meaningful they often become.

I think taking a minute of each day to simply observe the world around you can be an incredible experience for everyone. We are too often caught up in the media and trends to notice the simplistic beauty the world often offers to us. Remaining mindful of what we have is to remain grateful. Both important to our physical and mental well being:)

I think taking an opportunity to look around you each day gives you the ability to take in new observations. You discover new things each time you allow yourself to be open to the idea of it and that is a beautiful thing. Simply by taking the time to slow down and look around-- we can truly see