Taste the Joy in Each Moment!

At the close of each year, I scroll through my computer’s calendar to review the year’s events. Memories reemerge like a slideshow as my curser moves week to week, month to month, January through December. Many wonderful events occurred: travel, dinners, celebrations, publishing a book, quiet walks with loved ones, unexpected opportunities, as well as a couple of devastating losses. 

Once the calendar review is complete, I ask, “What’s next? What project or desire will appear on my January vision board for the new year.” This time, an internal mechanism yelled, “Stop! Life is not mechanical. Time does not exist in a linear fashion, and there is plenty of room to imagine, play, and take a detour if you choose.” Hmmm, that firm and loving voice resonated and caused a full-stop in my routine. 

This January 2024, I breathe in deeply with this new mantra and pause to digest 2023 again with delight. Like a fabulous meal, I savor each morsel in the present moment without thoughts of what’s to come. I’ll move on, maybe tomorrow, next week or next month. Being present in reflection is a gift, not a contradiction of terms. It is the opportunity to taste the joy in each moment.