Finding Strength in the Now

“In times of pain, when the future is too terrifying to contemplate and the past too painful to remember, I have learned to pay attention to right now. The precise moment I was in was always the only safe place for me.”

Julia Cameron

Hey there, let’s delve into this powerful quote that speaks to the human experience of pain and the art of finding solace in the present moment. It’s like a guiding light through the darkest times, reminding us that in the midst of turmoil, the present offers a refuge of safety and strength. So, let’s unpack it together and explore its profound wisdom.

“In times of pain, when the future is too terrifying to contemplate and the past too painful to remember…” Wow, this hits deep, doesn’t it? We’ve all been there—moments when we feel overwhelmed by the weight of our past regrets or anxious about an uncertain future. It’s like being caught in an emotional storm, with thoughts and emotions swirling around us.

But here’s the thing: we can’t change the past, and we can’t predict the future. So, dwelling on them only adds to our suffering. It’s like carrying a heavy backpack filled with emotional baggage and worries.

“I have learned to pay attention to right now.” Ah, this is where the magic happens. The present moment is our sanctuary—a place of respite from the storms of the past and future. It’s like finding a peaceful oasis in the middle of a desert.

Imagine it as a breath of fresh air; when we focus on the present, we anchor ourselves to the here and now. We become fully aware of our thoughts, feelings, and sensations. It’s like hitting the pause button on life’s chaos and finding stillness within.

“The precise moment I was in was always the only safe place for me.” Let that sink in for a moment. Safety doesn’t always lie in escaping or running away from pain. It’s about being present with our experiences, no matter how uncomfortable they may be.

Think of it as embracing our vulnerability; it’s like cradling our inner child in our arms, offering comfort and reassurance. When we stop avoiding our pain and lean into it, we discover that we are stronger and more resilient than we thought.

So, how do we practice being in the present moment? It’s like flexing a muscle; the more we do it, the stronger it becomes. Here are some simple ways to cultivate mindfulness and presence:

Breathe: Take a deep breath. Inhale, exhale. Feel the rhythm of your breath, grounding you in the present.
Notice your surroundings: Look around you. Observe the sights, sounds, and sensations. Let yourself be fully immersed in the present environment.
Feel your emotions: Acknowledge your feelings without judgment. It’s okay to feel sad, angry, or anxious. Emotions are like passing clouds—they come and go.
Practice gratitude: Take a moment to appreciate what you have right now. Gratitude shifts our focus from lack to abundance.
Engage your senses: Taste your food mindfully, feel the texture of objects, listen to the sounds around you. Engaging your senses connects you to the present moment.
Let go of judgment: Be kind to yourself. There’s no need to criticize or compare. Embrace your humanness, flaws, and all.
Be gentle with yourself: Treat yourself as you would a dear friend. Offer yourself compassion and love.

In conclusion, in times of pain and uncertainty, the present moment becomes our safe haven. By paying attention to “right now,” we free ourselves from the burdens of the past and future. Mindfulness and presence empower us to navigate life’s storms with courage and grace.

So, my friend, let’s embrace the gift of now. Let’s cherish the moments that make up our lives, for they are fleeting and precious. Remember, the present is where true strength and healing reside.

Arogi Foundation

Arogi Trauma Care Foundation (ATCF) is like the silver lining in a dark cloud, making free counselling and therapy accessible to traumatised individuals, bringing healing to those who are hurting and helping people lift up burdens of pain, Read More>>