The Present Moment

Sometimes I find it hard not to be constantly in multitask mode.  I juggle a lot of things - I am sure you do, too.  We also live in an age where we have information and communication constantly at our fingertips.  Don't get me wrong - I think there is a lot of great things about technology.  But I think it can also make us disconnect as we become engrossed in what we falsely think of as "connecting."  Meanwhile we've tuned out to the people physically present with us.

I've been challenged to really try to slow my mind down and be present when I am with others.  You might recall that "Presence" was one of the words I selected to focus on this year.  One Sunday afternoon a few months ago, I had the chance to experience presence with my 2 year old in a way I had not before.

That day, on a whim, I asked Elaina if she wanted to help me make some muffins.  I have many fond memories of cooking and helping my mother and grandmother in the kitchen and she's getting old enough now to really be interested in "helping."  But it's hard to find the time and well, I don't like messes.  So this was a first.

For some reason, on this day, I didn't try to be efficient, or to rush her.  I slowed the pace down, and involved her in every step.  I explained each ingredient, and showed her how to measure and stir it in. 

Honestly, I expected her to lose interest after 10 or 15 minutes.  But she did not.  It took a whole hour and she was absolutely with me for every second of it.

It was all so new to her, and so ordinary to me - but I was struck by her wonder and excitement.  It was a gift to see her confidence and pride in herself as she did a step, and looked at me and said "I did it, Mommy!" 

It was an ordinary moment but it felt extraordinary.  I was so grateful that I was able to put aside my list of to do's and be with her in this activity.  As a friend shared in response to my story, it is a beautiful picture of how God probably views the joy in involving us in his work in the world.  He doesn't have to, and it's messy and takes a lot longer than if He did it himself, but so much more worth it in His eyes.

This experience made me more acutely aware of the times I spend "with" her - as in, we're in the same room.  But am I really "with" her - as in, at her level, in her world, seeing the ordinary as extraordinary as she does?   What am I missing when I can't slow down and be "as a child" for a few moments?

How about you?  Have you had a moment like this as a parent, teacher, friend or spouse?  Do you find it hard to tune out distractions and be engaged in the present moment?  I'd love to hear your thoughts!