Mindfulness

The concept of mindfulness is the idea that wherever you are, you are there one hundred percent. It doesn't matter if you are catching up with a friend or if you are sitting and quietly having your devotions or commuting on the freeway. Sometimes it's easier than others - who doesn't have 18 things on their minds at one time? But what I'm finding is that when I take the time to focus my energy completely 100% on where I'm at, I find myself in a place of pure contentment. When you are completely involved in the task at hand, you can't think about how you wish things were different or how much work you have to do. I focus on how soft Baby M's hair is. I listen to his laugh. I realize how lucky I am to be sitting on the floor with him reading a book. And suddenly I find that I don't want to be anywhere else in the world. I realize that I have few precious hours with him and see that they go by so fast! My baby is turning into a little boy right before my eyes. My selfish thoughts turn to grateful ones and my heart is so full. I'm rewarded with his attention; when I am content, he is more content. He wants to be with me, and I get hugs and kisses and smiles that mean the world. Mindfulness is a practice: it doesn't come easily, but what I'm finding is that it is worth every ounce of effort and the payoff is incredible. I would encourage you to practice it as well, whether you are a parent or not, stay-at-home mom or a working mom. Just try to be where you are. It gets easier with time and it is completely worth it.