The practice of presence…
Alright, it’s officially August.
Somehow, this month always feels like the final chapter of summer, when in reality, we still have several weeks of warmth left! Yes, it’s the beginning of the season’s final chapter… but we’re not rushing to the last page!
I’m a summer girly through and through. Perhaps it’s my Taurus energy, but this season has a way of grounding me unlike any other. I feel most connected when I allow simplicity… and presence. The smell of fresh cut grass, birdsong in the morning, and watching my daughter run around catching fireflies.
About a month ago, I walked into a big-box store and was greeted by Halloween decorations. My 3-year-old loves Halloween, so I’ll admit that I found joy in her excitement. But it was July 5th… Why so soon?!
It made me think about how we’re encouraged to move onto the next thing before we’ve fully experienced the season that we’re in. Whether that be an elemental season, or even just a chapter of life.
I’m sure not many people we’re purchasing the 20ft inflatable pumpkins, but I can guarantee it caught their attention (just as it did mine) and had them skipping ahead to cool air and everything the fall season promises.
And that’s what so much of life feels like these days. We’re constantly shown what’s next- next season, next holiday, next goal, next purchase, next-next-next. Before we know it, we’re mentally living weeks or months ahead, all while the beauty of the current moment slips away.
Unlike advertisements and consumerism, presence isn’t constantly screaming for our attention with a price tag, bold colors, or even telling us that something better is waiting for us around the corner. No. Instead, it invites us to notice what’s already here.
The warmth of the sunshine on your skin. The smell of ripe tomatoes. The beauty of bloomed flowers. The laughter of kids playing outside. A slow evening walk. The songs of chirping crickets. Even a deep breath before the day begins.
Though these moments seem ordinary, it’s what will be most missed when the seasons change.
As we move through August, this final chapter of summer, I’m offering an invitation (I’m also speaking to myself as I write this,): don’t rush. There’s still so much beauty left to witness and life yet to experience… presence that is worthy of our attention.
Seasons will change soon enough. And it will have us longing for what we allowed to pass by.
So, for now, let’s soak in every barefoot moment, the heartiness of our gardens, and all the beauty this chapter has yet to offer.
With love and light,
Makiyah
