Chapter 1: The Distraction of Time

In the past, before smartphones and the Internet became ubiquitous, people often carried camcorders to capture significant life events like birthdays and weddings.

I recall seeing these devices everywhere, especially at little league games and soccer matches. Proud parents would juggle their camcorders, trying to record every moment, occasionally colliding with one another in the process.

At that time, I stumbled upon an insightful magazine article criticizing the widespread use of camcorders. The author claimed that while parents were busy trying to document events, they were missing out on the joy of actually experiencing those moments. Essentially, the act of recording distracted them from being truly present.

Stay in the Moment

There’s a memorable scene from the film "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" where Walter (played by Ben Stiller) is tasked with finding the renowned photographer Sean O’Connell (played by Sean Penn) to secure a cover photo for the final issue of Life magazine.

During their encounter in the Afghan Himalayas, when a rare snow leopard appears, Sean chooses not to take a photo. Walter inquires, "When are you going to capture it?" Sean replies, "Sometimes I don’t. If I enjoy a moment, I prefer not to be distracted by the camera. I just want to immerse myself in it." Walter, puzzled, asks, "Stay in it?" Sean affirms, "Yes, right there. Right here."

In today’s world filled with flashing smartphones and constant digital interruptions, truly "staying in it" seems increasingly challenging. Our attention spans and the quality of our social interactions are deteriorating.

Live in the Breath

Johann Hari, in an essay for The Guardian, highlights a study revealing that college students now focus on a single task for an average of just 65 seconds. Another study found that office workers can concentrate for only about three minutes. This decline isn’t due to a lack of willpower; rather, our ability to focus has been compromised.

Many believe they can multitask effectively, but what they are actually doing is rapidly switching between tasks. Hari cites a neuroscientist who explains that this transition requires the brain to reconfigure, a process that, while feeling smooth, ultimately hinders performance—a phenomenon known as the switch-cost effect.

Amit Ray once stated, "If you want to conquer the anxiety of life, live in the moment, live in the breath."

When we dwell on past regrets or future uncertainties, we rob ourselves of the chance to be fully present. What truly matters is what you’re doing right now. The more you can concentrate and be free of distractions, the more you will achieve and experience.

A Lesson from the Hospice

My wife, who works as a hospice nurse, recently shared a moving reflection about her experiences and the significance of being present. With her permission, I’d like to share her thoughts:

"Being present is a choice. My job gives me the opportunity to decide whether to be present during moments of profound grief.

In my role at one of the oldest hospice houses in the nation, I care for patients who are too ill to remain at home—those who are in the most pain or feel the most isolated. My shifts are long, and while I often feel drained, I sometimes allow my colleagues to handle emotional situations. Other times, it’s my responsibility.

Last weekend, I encountered a remarkable couple who had been married for 62 years. Their bond was strengthened through adversity, especially during times when acceptance of diversity was scarce.

As cancer took her voice and energy, she lay in bed, while he held her hands. Although her end was imminent, it was not that day.

The next morning, I recognized the signs that she would soon pass. When I called her husband, he rushed over, but she didn’t wait for him.

He fell to the ground, quietly weeping. My colleagues tried to help him, but I gestured for them to allow him the space he needed. "It’s so final. I knew it was coming, but it’s so FINAL. GONE," he lamented softly.

I sat beside him, placing a hand on his shoulder to let him know he wasn’t alone. After a few hours, once he gathered the strength to stand, he thanked us for making him feel as though they were the only two people in the world at that moment.

We shared a hug, and as he left, my colleague and I held each other, realizing it was our turn to cry. This is why I chose this profession and the importance of being present.

While the past and future have their significance, they often divert our attention from the present. Our smartphones and constant digital distractions do the same.

Making the conscious decision to focus on the present can enhance your life, leading to greater productivity and deeper connections with loved ones. When we are present, we are truly alive.

Chapter 2: The Importance of Presence

Understanding Memory and the Present

The first video titled "Remember the Past, Acknowledge the Present and Create a Better Future" discusses how recognizing our past can shape our present and influence our future.

The Mystery of Memory

The second video, "Why Do You Remember The Past But Not The Future?", explores the complexities of memory and how it affects our perception of time and presence.

I’m John P. Weiss. I create cartoons, capture images, and write insightful essays about life. Explore my popular Saturday Letters for more reflections.