Stop and smell the roses

Every day has amazing opportunities in it.  It is so easy to be distracted and disconnected.  I see people everywhere focused on their phones, texting, reading texts or emails....  Often they are alone, sometimes they are with other people.  It is a real gift to practice being present in the present moment - only.  Not thinking about the "to do" list, fretting over what didn't get done yesterday (and is now added to the list for today - or that elusive "someday"....).  Who is right where you are right now?  Who can you connect with, live and in person?  Set aside the electronic devices for a moment or two each day and just take a few deep breaths, look at your surroundings, especially if you get the opportunity to be outdoors.  You don't have to spend an hour watching the sun go down to appreciate a beautiful sunset.  Grab those special "moments" and encourage those around you to slow down and enjoy the ride too.