What do you believe about living in the moment?
Post submissions here that match this topic thread in comments.
What do you believe about living in the moment?
Post submissions here that match this topic thread in comments.
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August 15, 2023 at 2:58 am
There were certain days during the summers of my childhood when it felt as though time stood still. My chest would rise and fall as if light as air, and my cheeks would sting with the pleasant ache that comes with smiling too long and too wide. On these afternoons the air was filled with the scent of rain and the sun would cling to the horizon line as though it wanted to stay and watch my friends and I throw a ball around just a second longer. Our clothes were grass stained and our knees purple with bruises that had origins we couldn’t recall. I had long forgotten what these days felt like, because no matter how much it felt like these moments were going to last forever, they never did. The years passed despite my protest and when I looked up, here I was. The summer of my senior year.
This summer I applied for a job at my town’s local summer camp as a way to earn some extra spending money before I packed my bags and left for a nine month sleepover with my roommate. We had thirty kids at any given time, ranging from the ages six to thirteen. When they played make believe or had big feelings about something as trivial as who got to be first in line (even though I had to walk in front of all of them anyway). I reminisce about how I used to do the exact same thing. It was like looking through a window into the past, and I wasn’t prepared for how it would end up bringing back that feeling of an endless moment.
One mid afternoon shift in late July, I watched from where I sat on the front steep. The campers played outdoor games with my colleagues. We had let them stay outside longer than usual, to soak in every minute of the cool summer breeze. Their laughter rang free and shameless. I could have sworn they looked exactly like my old friends, all brought back from the roads life had sent them down.
I thought about that moment my whole way home, the way I wished the only responsibilities I had were those of a child. I wanted to feel that freedom again. I pondered why as we mature we have to abandon the childlike wonder we all once held. I realized that I actually had been experiencing that wonder again every time I got to draw or make friendship bracelets with the campers.
So my belief is this; even though we grow older, apply for student loans and pack our entire lives away to go to college, sometimes just taking a minute to do something that sparks true childlike joy will inspire you and make you feel in a way that nothing else ever has. I challenge you to dig up those old Barbie dolls from the basement or run outside at full speed, just do something that reminds you of how beautiful simply playing can be.
August 15, 2023 at 11:09 pm
Your story was so intriguing, and I can completely back the message.
August 16, 2023 at 2:11 am
This was so beautifully written, and I couldn’t agree more. The pressure to immediately grow up once you turn 18 easily suppresses the simple feelings of getting to just be a kid when that’s what majority of our life has been up to this point. It’s sad to think I haven’t played jump rope or made friendship bracelets in years. After reading this I’m definitely inclined to go through my memory boxes and old toys.
August 25, 2023 at 8:46 pm
I love your writing style – I could imagine the scenes you described perfectly. And the message of your story is one I fully agree with. Children can see the beauty in mundane things that we’ve forgotten about because they’re seeing them for the first time. If we hold on to our inner child, we can remind ourselves that the simplest parts of life are often the most lovely. Growing up doesn’t mean we can’t still find joy in the small and silly things!
August 15, 2023 at 3:09 am
Kaitlyn S.
We are taught at a young age that we should want to grow up, that we should be one step ahead of where we are now. As we grow as students, we are constantly putting goals on ourselves and pushing for that last test, that last grade, that last class. We grow and learn that we should be finding things in life that we can look forward to. A holiday, a birthday or even just a single day off where you can do nothing. We are never taught how to accept the present day, the days where it feels like the world is crumbling down or the days where nothing seems to fit you “just right”. We are taught to be strong but with strength we have to also enjoy the present. To not just look back at the past but to see the present and where we are as steppingstones, that even the terrible days can still be good. To wake up and appreciate the rainy days and the exam days and the days where all you do is cry. I search for peace in the loud and value my day-to-day life as it is. I allow myself to stop and live in the moment to remember that each moment that I have will someday be in the past, that all the bad days will pass and all the good will be cherished. I believe that living in the moment allows us to remind ourselves that we are alive. We often blind ourselves with tasks that make us mindless, we repeat the same routines all day that we forget ourselves, we forget to “seize the day”. To truly feel alive is to live in the moment.
August 15, 2023 at 2:45 pm
Very well said! We really are never informed on how hard it is to juggle staying in the present, while also being aware of the past, and furthermore worrying about the future. Seizing the day is not always necessary, and it is unfair to beat ourselves up over something like that. As students, and humans sometimes it is a never-ending push towards the next goal. It’s important to stop, look around and process our own experiences. I really love the phrasing here and the slow buildup to your last sentence! Great job! ＼( ^o^ )／
August 15, 2023 at 4:29 pm
I defiantly see what your saying kids often find them selves wishing there were older and idolizing those older people around them thinking everything will be fine and dandy once there big and strong but don’t realize that each and everyone of those big string adults they wish they could be like are jealous of them wishing they had one more day to be a kid because growing up is hard going from not liking what your parents made for dinner to now knowing how your going to feed your self is something that kids never have to see and it can catch people off guard when they get older being a young and enjoying every moment I think is something most people over look so much and don’t realize how great it felt until it’s over with
August 15, 2023 at 3:26 am
I believe that the only moment is now. I believe that spending your time thinking about how much better your life is going to be in the future is naive, and yet I still find myself doing exactly that. It’s very hard to appreciate the present moment at times, I often longingly think of the day where I will sit down and realize that everything is alright. The truth is that tomorrow isn’t promised. We shouldn’t take any given moment for granted, and yet we all still do it. Few will ever perfectly follow this mindset of treating every day like it’s their last, because it isn’t realistic. I suppose as long as we try to catch ourselves from daydreaming about the future, we might more clearly see what already surrounds us in the present.
August 27, 2023 at 8:20 pm
jmarini
I can find myself understanding your message, I’ve long felt that living in the moment is a hard thing to come by due to the way we were nurtured I feel that each person’s experience changes the way they see life and that is why I could get what you are saying in your message because that is the way I also feel.
August 15, 2023 at 3:29 am
I believe it is important to live in the moment because if you’re too focused on the future or if you’re too hung up about the past you end up missing what’s going on around you. I always to cherish the little things in life because I feel that if I don’t live in the moment I might end up missing it. During my time in Maine this summer, I tried to make sure to look at the stars whenever I could as It’s something I could easily take for granted. Taking in the little things in life helps me destress and realized how beautiful life can be. I believe it’s important to always be able to find time to hang out with friends and experience all the world together. This year I hiked Mount Washington with a couple of friends and I was able to really find my self while hiking. I was able to relax and think about what it means to be human and how lucky I am to exist. If you can stay on track on what you should be doing in the present and not procrastinate as well as find time to enjoy life, you will be able to find who you truly are. I learned that no matter how hard things might get or how impossible the odds may seem I know that everything is going to be ok. And in the wise words of Bob Marley “every little thing, is gonna be alright”.
September 3, 2023 at 3:29 pm
I’m glad you’ve taken the time to realize living in the moment is such a beautiful thing. It’s takes a lot of time and process for people to realize that.
August 15, 2023 at 3:31 am
Evan B.
The bass booms, the chorus thunders, the music intensifies, and the climax of the song is reached. Suddenly, silence.
Silence that rocks you to your core; the lights dim and the set drags Eurydice below the stage of Hadestown on Broadway. This rush of emotions from sheer energy and excitement to absolute shock and distress that overcomes the audience is a testament to the undeniable power of the art.
The power that art has is immaculate and unprecedented, especially when presented as a cohesive piece comprised of multiple different mediums and forms of art, especially in the likes of live theater.
I believe that art and, more specifically, theater are incredibly powerful methods of artistic storytelling that have in many cases changed my outlook on life and the world as whole. Shows such as Hadestown, Kimberly Akimbo, Sondheim’s Into the Woods, and many others have left me with new thoughts and perspectives about the world as I exited the theater and rushed toward the stage door. Hadestown is the perfect example of literary and artistic mastery in theater that tells a story so beautiful and human. Kimberly Akimbo left me with a new view on the concept of living my own life and what I am grateful for. Into the Woods provided me with a complex dive into how people are more than just good or bad, that there’s more than what it seems and it all changes based on your own upbringing and perspective ultimately effects the choices one makes.
Theater’s powerful artistic abilities have helped to shape my life through the cohesive magic of a variety of art mediums coming together.
August 17, 2023 at 5:03 pm
The story telling that you used writing this blog post was very compelling, I love how you went into detail on what lessons you learned about not only yourself but the world around you as a whole. The message is completely conveyed after reading it.
August 15, 2023 at 3:34 am
Maya Angelou once said “My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.” If survival was our life’s motive we’d prevent ourselves from taking risks and evolving. There’s never been a hobby you tried that you didn’t fail on the first try or a future friend you were once intimidated to connect with. It’s these little things that involve discomfort and fear that embody the definition of thriving. When you begin to thrive in life there is no room for failure and only space for growth. I believe that if I live to thrive , I will never experience a moment of regret and or dwell in the reflection of what could’ve been because I did everything with the intent of feeling content. Every mistake has a lesson and with those lessons comes knowledge. The intent of life is no longer about being fulfilling for what’s to come but about being fulfilled with what is right in front of you.
I expand my mindfulness to help me learn myself a little better and learn how I want to live my life. Ive been able to enjoy relationships , friendships and connections much deeper than before. I’m not perfect obviously but I take a stronger step forward everyday which makes life so much more worthwhile. I hope all of you begin to thrive a little more than you did yesterday.
August 15, 2023 at 3:52 am
Social Media has taken over this upcoming generation. It has taught teens to scroll on their phones all day and live through other people’s media posts. Our generation needs to change that habit and learn to live in the moment. When I am out in public with friends or family, I try to put down my phone, engage in conversation and put my full attention on what is happening in front of me. We as a generation have grown up with screens in front of our faces, teens now a days knows more about technology than any other generation. Social media is a crucial factor in that statement. Media has taken away the aspect of reality, with the new AI technology, photoshop and more new technological improvements. We now do not know what is real vs. fake news, images, and headlines. Teens know so much about the world through the internet but have not actually been around the world. We see the good parts of the world through pictures, but we do not realize how fortunate we are to be living in America with the recourses that are available to us. I love to hear stories from my elders about the times when they did not have phones to communicate, and their parents would tell them to “come home when the streetlights turn on.” It is amazing how different all the generations have with the idea of living in the moment. The definition of living in the moment to me is to never take the opportunities you have for granted, and to take every chance you get to try to live out your full potential. I stand by the phrase, “everything happens for a reason” and I believe that with that statement it helps me look at every opportunity to broaden my future because who knows if you will ever get that same chance again.
August 21, 2023 at 5:41 pm
I completely agree with the message that you are conveying in this blog post. By adding the quote “everything happens for a reason” it tied your statement together and proved your point. Also, I liked how you tied together information about the difference between this generation and past generations.
August 15, 2023 at 4:25 am
Josilene A.
I was young when I realized how much my mom cared about what others thought about her. I would watch her spend hours getting ready in front of the bathroom mirror, analyzing her features, plucking out gray hairs, and covering her waterline with blue eyeliner so her eyes would pop. After she was ready, she would start on me. She would untangle my hair while telling me how long it was getting and that I should never cut it. She would drown me in lotion making sure my face never looked dry, and dress me in itchy sweaters that were too tight around the arms and shoes that matched whatever hair tie was holding my bun. When I finally hit the age where I could dress myself, she often commented on how boyish I dressed and would tell me to start dressing like a girl. Her comments caused me to hate anything feminine and resent girls who dressed the way I knew she wished I would. I spent a lot of my life caring about the way I looked and acted Infront of people. I didn’t enjoy going out because I was only focused on how I looked. I would go home and stare at myself for hours. Even after my mom stopped, I would still criticize myself and subconsciously notice the way I was acting and dressing and thought others were too. During quarantine, my mindset changed drastically. I was at home every day for a year and a half alone. There was no one around for me to prove my worth too. I didn’t have to dress up or do my hair and I realized that I didn’t care about how others perceived me, and I am grateful to have overcome this challenge so early in my life because life is too short to be stressing about others’ opinions.
August 15, 2023 at 4:46 am
Kayla C
Growing up you are expected to start planning for your future as early as thirteen years old. And even though having these goals and aspirations is practical you still can’t overlook the life you are living right now. We need to realize that our present is just as important as our future. Life is too short to worry about our futures, and if we do so we are gonna miss out on the world in front of us.
I believe you should live in the moment because if you do not you risk missing out on great opportunities that will come your way. Opportunities that make you who you are and build your opinions on the world. Personally I think there are two reasons why people avoid living in the moment. One is because they are too scared, they are too scared of what people think or too scared of failing. As someone who thinks this way a lot, I’ve noticed every time I did something a little spontaneous I didn’t regret it, and those moments have become some of my best memories of my adolescent years. Two, people think too much about their future that they miss out on fun, memorable experiences. If you think this way I believe you will look back and feel regret. Going out and experiencing the world and living life to the fullest teaches you just as much as going to school. You learn life lessons and you start to develop your own values by living life day by day.
Overall I think it’s great to plan for your future but you shouldn’t overlook the small moments you have now to have fun and create memories even if you are scared to do so. Living in the moment teaches you so many things, creates so many memories, and uncovers great opportunities. These moments could be the best times of your life and you don’t want to live a life of regret. So just take the opportunity to enjoy each moment in life because it goes by too fast to always worry about what happens in the future.
August 15, 2023 at 9:07 pm
I completely agree with this. It can be so hard to just focus on living life when you are also stressing out about being successful and overall having a good life in the future. It can really take a toll on people, so it definitely isn’t worth stressing about the things you can’t control in the present.
August 15, 2023 at 4:55 am
I believe that “living in the moment” means that you don’t have to worry about anything but the present. A Lot of people nowadays don’t live, they are just existing in the world. I feel like working and money play a part in people not living in the moment. I know you need money for a lot of things but it does take control of people’s mindsets. You only live once and life is unpredictable so it’s better to just LIVE. I used to work like crazy and yes I love the money and everything but I missed out on just hanging out and having time to myself. Living in the moment is to fully experience and appreciate the past and the future. It’s about finding joy in the little things and savoring each experience. Let go of any distractions that you’ve been having and just embrace what’s in front of you. Being able to be open to new opportunities and taking risks. Not getting caught up in regrets or worries just focused on what you can control right now. Just look into the unknown and create meaningful memories that you can hold onto. Create connections and memories that will last a lifetime. Living in the moment reminds us that everything is temporary, and appreciating the present can bring a greater sense of gratitude for the experiences we have right now. Watching the sunset and water is one of the most “living in the moment” moments for me. It gives me so much life and brings me joy. Make the most out of everything you can and just be happy.
August 15, 2023 at 5:35 am
Zaylie T.
I believe living in the moment is the key to living a happier life. In order to live in the moment, you must be able to let go of your grudges. Being able to forgive and forget allows you to move on and truly live in the moment, rather than continue to dwell on and get stuck in the past. In order to live in the moment, you must also be able to let go of your worries. Although worrying and stressing will sometimes allow you to get things done more quickly, too much worrying about what will happen in the future, when there is nothing that can be done about it, does not allow you to live in the moment. I have gotten stuck stressing about what will happen in the future, if I did a good enough job, or if I made a mistake. However, if there is nothing you can do about it, there is no point worrying about what the future outcome will be. I have learned that it is better to just relax while waiting for results, and make use of my time doing something productive or something that will take my mind off the matter. Living in the moment is not about dwelling on the past or worrying about the future, but rather enjoying the present and all the little things in life.
August 15, 2023 at 11:38 pm
I like your take on living in the moment, the future is an unknown and like all unknowns we inherently bear some fear towards it. We shouldn’t let this hold us back.
August 16, 2023 at 2:08 am
Could not agree more, Love this!
August 15, 2023 at 5:55 am
Rogdrena T
What does the phrase living in the moment means to me
To me, living in the moment has never been a concept I could grasp, I’ve always been too busy worrying about the future. worries of what i would make of myself, living in the moment to me seemed to be a luxury I couldn’t afford. I believe living in the moment is living life to its fullest content without thinking about the past or obsessing over the future just focusing on the present which was something that I definitely could not afford to do with the goals I set for myself. But I think that if I allow myself to savor the small joys and appreciate the beauty that surrounds me, I would be able to immerse myself into the emotions of each passing moment, this is what living in the moment means to me. But sadly I’m not able to overlook the past or ignore the future without having an internal conflict with myself which I honestly would prefer to avoid than to confront at this current moment of my life, but surely with dew time the mindset I now let lead my life will dwindle away allowing for a newer healthier, Peaceful state of mind that I hope would bring new joy, memories, and experiences leading to a contentment life.
September 3, 2023 at 3:49 pm
I was ultimately the same way. All I worried about was my future and past, and I never once thought I was living in the moment either. Not to metion they way you wrote “ living in the moment to me seemed to be a luxury I couldn’t afford.” was an amzaing way to word it! I’m gald you’ve took the time to realize what living in the moment mean and how you allowed yourself to.
August 15, 2023 at 1:22 pm
LuisM
I believe living in the moment is a valuable concept that encourages us to embrace the present and find joy in everyday experiences. It suggests that instead of worrying about the past or constantly planning for the future, we should focus on what’s happening right now. Many believe that by immersing ourselves in the present, we can reduce stress, anxiety, improve our mental well-being, and create lasting memories.
Imagine a serene walk through a sunlit park – feeling the soft grass underfoot, hearing the cheerful chirping of birds, and relishing the warmth of the sun on your skin. When we fully engage with these sensations, we can escape the pressures of life and appreciate the beauty around us. It’s like savoring a favorite meal, concentrating on each flavor and texture.
This philosophy isn’t about neglecting responsibilities or ignoring the future, but it is about finding balance. It encourages us to unplug from our screens, release our worries, and truly connect with the world. By doing so, we often discover that our troubles seem smaller and more manageable. Additionally, living in the moment can improve relationships, as being fully present when spending time with loved ones fosters deeper connections. This is better than always being caught up in the past or anxious about the future.
In life, each present moment is a thread. By weaving these threads mindfully, we create a vibrant and rich life experience. So, let’s appreciate the simple pleasures, and cultivate a positive outlook that enriches our journey.
August 15, 2023 at 1:34 pm
Alexander M
To me living in the moment means living life like there is no tomorrow and taking every change and opportunity life throws at you. I think one of my biggest regrets so far in life has been not living in the moment. I think all throughout high school I missed so many fun times and experiences because I was so scared of jumping outside of my confort zone and trying new things. I was afraid to try new things because I was scared of what other people think. I feel like I missed out on a fun high school experience because I wasn’t living in the moment and was too busy with other things or just too lazy to go out and have fun. Over this past year I have realized that in just a short couple of months we will all be going our separate ways and I shouldn’t care what people from high school think of me. I think once you get over the fear of caring what people think you will be more confident in being yourself and trying new things. I guess I toom my time for granted and always thought we would have this forever but high school goes by quick and before we know it my friends and I would all be separated and off doing our own thing. I decided I had to make the most of it and start being more spontaneous and living in the moment instead of thinking of what i’ll be doing in the future. Senior year of high school I living in the moment and realizing we aren’t going to be in high school forever and I should make the most of it while its still here. I joined the golf team despite never playing golf and had so much fun and got closer to a lot of my friends and overall it was a great experience. I joined a club and started volunteering more, and also got an internship in something I was passionate about. I started going out more and just living in the moment and taking a chane on every opportunity I had to be with my friends and create memories.
August 15, 2023 at 6:05 pm
I agree with you completely. I found myself in the same boat. It is hard to live in the moment until you realize that you aren’t. You start to feel better when you start living in the moment.
August 15, 2023 at 8:49 pm
I like how you prioritized creating memories such as going out and exploring whats out there.
August 15, 2023 at 1:51 pm
Grace C
Living in the moment is one of the most overlooked concepts in today’s society. Everyone is so focused on what is next and what is to come, while being oblivious to what’s in front of them. Life will pass you by if you don’t start looking up every once in a while. Every so often, I’ll be somewhere I frequent and I look at the ceiling and think, “huh, I have never seen their ceiling before”. Something so small like this is such a realization to how you are moving through life. You are focused on step after step, what’s coming next. How often do you take a break and just look all around you? Notice everything you see in the room or around you. Things you would normally never bat an eye at. Let it draw your attention and become aware of your surroundings. Sometimes focusing on what’s going on in the moment will open your eyes to things you have never been able to see or understand before.
September 5, 2023 at 5:01 pm
This is a great take! I used to live by just going through the motions and anticipating what would come next. Trying to live in the moment has opened up my eyes to so much more joy in my life that I never would have been able to see if I hadn’t picked my head up.
August 15, 2023 at 2:09 pm
Juliana O
If two years ago someone would have told me to just “live in the moment,” I would have just shrugged my shoulders and not even given that statement a second thought. For as long as I can remember, I have always been a ball of anxiety pacing around. I was constantly worrying about something. I could have had nothing to do, but my brain would have wondered what needed to be done tomorrow, what I could’ve done better in the past, and what was required to be accomplished in the future. Just reading that sentence could make anyone’s head spin in circles, but for me, that always seemed to be my constant state of mind. Not once did I used to think about the present moment.
It wasn’t until my senior year of high school that I realized how much of my life I had already taken for granted. I had spent so much time worrying about things out of my control that I had no control over myself. Although I would hang out with the people I cared for the most and surround myself with a positive environment, I always felt as if I needed to be doing more. If I was relaxing, then in fact I must be doing something wrong because somewhere, somehow, someone was doing more.
During the last few months of high school, I met someone who was the epitome of the phrase “You only live once.” At first, it used to bother me how carefree he was; being an anxious person, it felt merely impossible to live the way he did until I started to realize how short life was. After putting things into perspective, I started to take things day by day. If I got a bad grade, I tried not to duel on it; instead, I would brush it off and acknowledge that there’s always next time to get it right. When out with friends, I began to be more present mentally and enjoy their company instead of letting my thoughts take over.
Ever since I changed my mindset to live in the moment, I can firmly say that I live every day a little more at peace. Of course, I still have everyday stresses that lead me to wander into my anxious thoughts, but I’m glad to have people in my life that make me realize what life is all about. Living in the moment does not mean you have to completely disregard the past or the future; sometimes planning ahead can benefit you. However, practicing this mindfulness allows you to balance different effects of your life, leading you to strengthen your connection with others and live a more enriching life.
August 15, 2023 at 2:13 pm
What do you believe about living in the moment?
Personally, I am someone who struggles with living in the moment I always have to have my next step planned. I need to know what’s going to happen, what time is going to happen, where I need to be and who’s going to be there. I’ve always tried to be someone who is going with the flow and able to be anywhere at any time, but I’ve always struggled with that. This constant anxiety of needing to know what’s going to happen next has caused me to be someone who doesn’t live in a moment. but rather someone who lives in memories.
Growing up I always wanted to be older. When I was five I couldn’t wait to be ten, when I was ten I couldn’t wait to be sixteen, and now I wish I was young again. This summer I was a camp counselor/Director of a summer camp I was placed with the younger kids, and I had a group of around fourteen girls from the age of seven to ten. When I was younger, I used to love summer camp. It was my favorite time of year so I wanted to make summer camp special for these kids too. I did my best to make everything exciting and new. I wanted to teach these young girls how to be strong and independent as they grew up. Yet they ended up teaching me something as well. Children do not care what you look like, they don’t care how expensive your shoes are, how nice your car is or anything like that. They care about whose splash in the pool is bigger, and who can run the fastest. Children are our purest form of ourselves but are also the most impressionable. Children know how to really enjoy living in every moment, and in hand taught me how too.
August 15, 2023 at 2:17 pm
Many people, including myself, spend too much time overthinking or worrying about what is going on around them instead of actually living in the moment. People tend to worry about what other people are going to think or they worry about all of the possible things that could happen instead of having fun or just living in the moment. Living in the moment is about doing things you enjoy without worrying or caring about anything else then what is happening in that moment. While not everyone may be worrying or overthinking, there are also many people who are on their phones constantly instead of paying attention to the world around them. After moments happen, you can tend to forget easily or regret if you weren’t fully in the moment. I believe that instead of worrying or looking at our phones, we should be making more memories and living in the moment.
August 15, 2023 at 4:47 pm
Samuel S
As I’ve grown older, it has become more and more apparent to me that it’s important to live in the present for your life to be happy and fulfilling. All the time you spend worrying and thinking about what other people are thinking is time you are not spending actualizing yourself into what you want to be. I went through my time in high school letting my fear of being judged, compared unfavorably to others, and overall laziness hold me back from trying. As a result, I graduated high school with one of the lowest scores in my class, with no extracurriculars or sports to my name. While I do think my fears were vaIid, I let them control me and because of it, I had no fun during my time in high school, produced nothing of value, never stepped out of my comfort zone and I didn’t even realize until it was over. While it’s impossible to get those opportunities back, missing out on them has helped me realize how I should be living my life; One day at a time and without fear of being judged. I will apply this to my life during college, and step out of my comfort zone a bit. Through this strategy I hope to use my time in college to grow as a person and hopefully come out the other side as a grown and changed person. I hope to not make the same mistake again and let life pass me by.
August 15, 2023 at 5:48 pm
Mia F
Living in the moment to me means to focus on what is currently important instead of worrying about things that have already happened or future problems that you can’t avoid. When I was in middle school I suffered from pretty intense anxiety that stemmed from a deep overthinking of every aspect of my life. I would constantly catch myself thinking of and sweating over past embarrassing or scary experiences whilst also getting ahead of myself and worrying about situations I would have to deal with weeks, months or even years into the future. My whole school life became me having to overcome panic attacks that I brought onto myself. My biggest coping mechanism I developed is to just live in the moment. Stop thinking about what you should have said, how you could have avoided this, or that you’re going to have to do that. None of it matters right now. Just because tomorrow you’re going to have to do something you don’t like doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy today. I know it can be hard making such a change- going from overthinking everything to living in the moment but if you try you will learn how much of a difference it can make. I’ve become so much happier. It helped me realize what people aren’t my real friends, it helped me speak clearer in social situations, and finally, it completely revamped my mental health. Focusing on living in the moment helped me stop myself from stepping on my own foot in life. Don’t worry about something you can’t change. Just worry about you now.
August 15, 2023 at 6:01 pm
Rachel E
Living in the moment is more complicated and complex than one would think. It is one of those scenarios that is easier said than done. When a person is told to “live in the moment” we tend to think that simply means to just put our phone down and bask in the present. There is more to living in the moment than a physical act. It is also a large mental challenge to live in the moment. It is human nature to think about the past and the future. We, as humans, are always wondering, “Did I say the wrong thing yesterday?” or “I need to start doing…” it is very easy to get caught up in the past and the future, but we need to remember that the only time we have is right now. It is okay to document events through photos, writing, etc., but never forget to be aware of where you are in the exact moment. Look around. Hear the sounds. Appreciate it all.
Life is truly made up of all the little moments. As a society, we need to practice enjoying every moment, no matter how big or small. Living in the moment is enjoying every aspect of life and finding light in the dark.
August 15, 2023 at 7:20 pm
The idea of living in the moment is quite simply enjoying what you have without overthinking it. Yet people have different views on what it means. For me it’s not that different from the main idea, just enjoy the best parts of your life while you have it because it won’t last long. Most people don’t really understand this or even think it’s worth living in the moment, because the future is more important. What they don’t understand is that the future while the future is inevitable, the past is unrepeatable.
It’s important to enjoy things while they are here because once they’re gone, they’re gone. Along with that people will also keep working and for their future but don’t enjoy it when they get there. They need to learn how to enjoy the life that they’ve been working so hard to get but they don’t because they instead keep working to get a better life, but they aren’t happy because they don’t take the time to enjoy their better life. What’s the point of working 60 hours a week and earning 200k a year if the only thing it will be spent on are bills because the only thing you have time for when you get home is dinner, a shower, and sleep.
If you can’t use the reward you have been working so hard to get, then it’s not worth it. A person may only be living in a small one-story house making only 80k a year. But if they’re able to live without stressing about paying bill and are able to spend their money on things for their entertainment, they’re truly successful.
August 15, 2023 at 9:04 pm
I believe that people should always live in the moment. It may not always be the easiest thing in the world as many people may struggle with focusing on the present rather than focusing on the past or the future. Living in the moment is hard because in society today, it is so normal to be constantly hard on yourself and strive to be perfect. Thinking this way makes us go insane at one point from the amount of stress we may be experiencing from making sure everything is perfect. I have struggled my whole life with “living in the moment.” It is a concept that I could never understand because I never got why people were always so calm and collected about everything in their life, and not always worrying about their future. Slowly it has become something I have focused on more so that I can have peace of mind while prioritizing my future, but also prioritizing myself now. Focusing on your present life can bring so much relief when you are simply just enjoying life and focusing on one thing at a time. Life is too short to spend it stressing out things you cannot control, so might as well live it one day at a time and enjoy it.
August 15, 2023 at 9:05 pm
As an over-thinker, I’m constantly thinking about the past and the future and I even ask myself questions to make things make sense for me. How did my actions affect me? What should I do to make another thing bigger or better for me? But up until recently, I never really focused on living in the moment. To me, living in the moment is being able to live freely without thinking about scenarios that haven’t happened or already have happened. I believe as a society we’re always thinking about “What’s next?” or wishing we could do something from the past over again , even when we haven’t fulfilled what’s right in front of us. When living in the moment, you worry less & realize that in being in the present moment you allow yourself to feel every emotion, take in every memory, & worry about little things later.
It’s so easy to catch yourself focusing on unimportant things from a month ago or focusing on things the future holds, before the outcome happens. It takes learning that being present gives you a sense of your own reality, rather than being anxious about previous or future events. I catch myself doing it all the time. Luckily, staying present has taught me that staying grounded and working hard in the moment , is the way you build your future. Of course it’s okay to worry about upcoming things or things that happened previously that could affect you today, but to dwell on it excessively is a completely different thing. What I’ve learned is that living in the moment isn’t just living carelessly and not thinking about consequences but it’s rather, not letting anything that is out of your control, have control over you.
August 15, 2023 at 9:45 pm
Brayden C
I believe living in the moment is a skill that becomes more difficult the older you become. When I look back at my early life, I very rarely worried about the past or had thoughts of the future. I was simply living, taking things day by day with my mind on the present. I feel like skill was so easy because of the fact that children have less responsibilities. As you get older in life, there are more and more responsibilities. I would argue that the years we all are entering now are some of the most stressful, frightening years of our lives. We have already had to spend time last year thinking about where we will attend college and our future plans while trying to enjoy the final year of high school. Pile on jobs and other household responsibilities, life becomes increasingly difficult. This is when it becomes easiest to not live in the moment. I am guilty of reflecting on the past and thinking about the future often. I do not think that it is a bad thing to do. Focusing on the past and future can be very helpful to reach the goals you aspire in life. The skill of living in the moment is knowing the time and place for allowing these thoughts. Moments around family, friends, during jobs, sports, or hobbies are not time for thoughts of anything but present. Life goes by, and if you spend every second worrying about what happened or is going to happen to you, you will miss it. “Realize deeply that the present moment is all you have,” is a quote that reminds me to just experience life. I will give my best effort to never lose the ability to appreciate life’s simplicity and all that it has to offer.
August 15, 2023 at 9:50 pm
Social Media has taken over this up coming generation. It has taught teens to scroll on their phones all day and live through other people’s media posts. Our generation needs to change that habit and learn to live in the moment. When I am out in public with friends or family, I try to put down my phone, engage in conversation and put my full attention on what is happening in front of me. We as a generation have grown up with screens in front of our faces, teens now a days knows more about technology than any other generation. Social media is a crucial factor in that statement. Media has taken away the aspect of reality, with the new AI technology, photoshop and more new technological improvements. We now do not know what is real vs. fake news, images, and headlines. Teens know so much about the world through the internet but have not actually been around the world. We see the good parts of the world through pictures, but we do not realize how fortunate we are to be living in America with the recourses that are available to us. I love to hear stories from my elders about the times when they did not have phones to communicate, and their parents would tell them to “come home when the streetlights turn on.” It is amazing how different all the generations have with the idea of living in the moment. The definition of living in the moment to me is to never take the opportunities you have for granted, and to take every chance you get to try to live out your full potential. I stand by the phrase, “everything happens for a reason” and I believe that with that statement it helps me look at every opportunity to broaden my future because who knows if you will ever get that same chance again.
August 15, 2023 at 10:45 pm
Topanga P
Living in the moment means something different to each person you ask. I believe that “living in the moment” means to live each day as if it was your last. Life is going to go by quickly, you shouldn’t have to worry about what happens the next day, just live for what’s happening currently. I myself have experienced this where I felt anxious about what could happen next making me not wanting to do anything more than the event happening at the time of thought. Life will even throw you an opportunity to try something different for once and that could be a risk but you need to take that chance to try it for the best to see what it could do for you. During my freshman year of highschool I got the opportunity to join the machine and Tool technology program at my school. At first I wasn’t happy to be inducted into this program but a year goes by and I got the opportunity to work on a job site to see if I truly enjoy machine learning. I was anxious at first since I knew it would be a tough obstacle but I knew this opportunity would be worthwhile since my dad would be there by my side helping me with it all since he would also be working at the same job site. After a few weeks I started comfortable going to the site everyday to work and my coworkers were even there helping me along the way. This opportunity left me with lots of skills and interests in the machining world. During my junior year though I had unfortunately had to put the job site training on hold because my dad had just got diagnosed with cancer and that left me not being able to have someone to train me on machining other than going to school but I would eventually return back during my senior but this time without my father by my side. It was different and extremely difficult for me since everything I did was him there for me. But I knew he left the option of having other coworkers there for me to help if I ever needed anything. I gained lots of interests in the field and wanted to continue my schooling on how to machine and become an engineer for the same company my dad and I had worked at. That’s why I took the opportunity to enroll into UMass Dartmouth to earn a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. My lesson to you is to take opportunities in life because you never know when it will be your last while also enjoying them by living in the moment.
August 15, 2023 at 10:55 pm
Vanessa jc
Living in the moment to me means that you are trying something new even if you are scared. It’s like when life throws you an opportunity and you take it you don’t know if it’s good or if it’s bad you’re just in it for the memories. Through high school I have had my fair share of being too scared to live in the moment and that’s definitely a big regret of mine. Up until my junior year of high school was when I really started to live at the moment I had gotten the opportunity to travel and I don’t go places often but that year I went to Puerto Rico with a group that I didn’t know very well. Through that trip I’ve gotten so close to those people that I’ve met there that I’ve now made long term friendships with some of them. For most people I understand why living in the moment can be bad, it can lead to bad decisions, that overall affects your life but you only live once right? So why not take the risk? It can lead to something greater. After going to Puerto Rico the next year I got another opportunity to leave the country this time I went to Rwanda Africa. Unlike the last time where I didn’t know the group this time I did and I still connected with them but this trio was more life changing for me. By taking that risk me and my friend are now planning to go back to Rwanda in June 2024. So why not live in the moment? Life is full of surprises!
August 15, 2023 at 11:36 pm
I believe that we should spend less time on social media or any type of technology. Although social media is what brings us humans together from anywhere in the world, we are not living the true human experience. We have lost touch with the real world and the feeling of living a genuine human life. We are not meant to spend all day at home, scrolling through our phones, sitting down on our chairs, or watching TV endlessly. I believe that we should dedicate at least one day of our week to not using any technology or limiting its use. For example, instead of scrolling through TikTok, maybe go out for a walk or spend time with friends, whether it is shopping or playing your favorite sports. I am not saying that we should get rid of technology altogether; it has brought us benefits like better communication and opportunities to learn new things. However, we have reached a point where we rely too heavily on technology, causing us to lose touch with the essence of living the true human experience. It is important to create ourselves a balance between our digital lives and our real lives. Taking breaks from technology can help us reconnect with the world around us, making deeper connections with others and allowing us to engage in activities that bring us joy and fulfillment. In the end, technology is a tool that should enhance our lives, not dominate them.
August 15, 2023 at 11:36 pm
Daisy B.
To me, living in the moment is much easier said than done. I see it as such a difficult concept, to truly have no worries or stresses. To be able to focus on the moment you are in and just allow yourself to let go and not let your thoughts have any control over you even if it’s just for a moment, has always felt like an unattainable dream. It feels as though my childhood ended so abruptly and I was thrown into a constant schedule of work and the stress that inevitably follows. I tend to wonder how it is possible to ever just live in the moment when working and paying bills has never been an option for me. With all of life’s responsibilities, I feel it’s hard to find those moments where you truly feel like you are at peace and can appreciate the world around you. And in those rare moments, when you can finally take a deep breath and feel that peace that you’ve longed for after your back-to-back shifts, you’re soon taken back into reality and that peacefulness ends. Although I have trouble finding it, I can appreciate the concept of living in the moment. Not thinking of your past mistakes or any of your troubles, being fully self-aware, prioritizing your mental health, and just appreciating today.
August 16, 2023 at 12:00 am
To me living in the moment can mean a lot of things, none of which I would condone to be good or bad. In my opinion, it is nothing but human nature to make bad decisions, as well as it being entirely up to us to get out of it if not to make the most of it. Choosing to make the most of it I think is where the human mind really shines because we all have the power to make what should end up as a bad memory into a funny story to tell down the line, or what should have been an annoying circumstance into something we can learn from, or even into something fun. For example in my own life, I once called out of my side job because I was supposed to be working at my main job late the same night, I just so happened to have one 5$ off of a 2$ scratch ticket and I decided to turn it into the cumberland farms I had bought it from. This should have been a great moment, as I was 3 dollars richer, but then my manager walked in to my surprise and scolded me for calling out of work earlier that day. Nothing happened of that, he in fact told me he was just joking. But this incident did leave me with a ironic story I used to entertain my girlfriend after I ended up being late to her house after this. I would have never had that story if it weren’t for me looking on the bright side and living in the moment. Thank you for your time.
Damon Schmitt
August 16, 2023 at 12:26 am
The phrase “it’s the little things in life” means that any action or insignificant detail can make an impact on someone’s well being. I’ve had many instances where I wished I took everything in the moment and let it be. Maybe letting go and relaxing would have helped, but how was I supposed to know?
When I was three, my appendix burst and leaked all of the acids into my other organs. Thankfully, my mothers “intuition” knew there was something wrong and dialed the paramedics immediately. If she didn’t dial that phone, I wouldn’t have been here today telling this story. Its the little things in life that make you wonder. What if it actually happened?
My mother had knee surgery and due to all the pain, doctor’s prescribed medication to relieve it. After taking those, she started to struggle a lot. My mother soon started to use other substances and later began moving around a lot with me and my sister. It’s the little things in life that make you realize… “what if none of that occurred”?
When I became older, around the ages of 10 and 11, I started to become very isolated and struggled with making friends. Sometimes it would be very hard for me to even get up and go to school some days because I was so insecure. I think this is because I was bullied a lot throughout my middle school times and only listened to what other people had to say about me.
Its the little things in life that make you remember how you felt during those tough times.
Starting High School, I came into freshman year with a lot of friends and even made more. I feel as though high school were my best but worst years. Half of those long four years I spent being more insecure, getting into fights, drama, losing friends. But, The other half of it I spent making memories.
My life is not the perfect story you read on the internet, or hear from your peers. I feel as though it is full of movement and out of one’s mind. When I was younger, I strived to be the smartest, the funniest, even the athletic one. Sometimes, life would get thrown at me like a whirling storm, waiting for the right time to strike. Other instances, it felt like I was on top of the world. Its the little things in life.
August 16, 2023 at 12:26 am
Nathan C.
Living in the moment gives you full control of your own thoughts which brings someone peace at mind. One stresses when worrying about what the future holds for them, when life becomes uncertain. This uncertainty is created by numerous sets of obstacles which are different and unique to every single person. Others dwell on the past which only fuels grudges and adds the weight of regret to one’s shoulders. When someone is unable to live in the moment they might not even realize this, but it can be difficult to make decisions without the pressure of these negative effects. With the increase of technological advancements in today’s world, people tend to lose the idea of living in the moment, disassociating themselves from the value of their own time and becoming trapped/lost in the realities of other people they see online. They miss many of the opportunities set out in front of them. Recently looking back, I have come to realize that I have achieved and continue to live within a few of my dreams set by my young self each and everyday. Whether this be through traveling to places I have never seen, especially this summer (traveling through New Hampshire forests by ATV or snowboarding for the first time in my life), being able to play soccer at all times, and building relationships with the people who I care about the most. Living in the moment is not preventing me from achieving much more in the future. Instead, it allows me to sit back and appreciate every little detail about life which I am grateful for.
August 16, 2023 at 12:27 am
Natahlia K
Living in the moment is something I have always struggled with. Life is full of so many unexpected twists and turns it feels almost impossible to always be completely present in the moment you’re living in. Things can happen in a blink of an eye and as someone who is already uptight, I usually am thinking of another situation in my present moment. Living in the moment can be easy when you’re at peace with yourself and your surroundings but can seem extremely difficult when a bad day happens, or you feel genuinely unhappy. I feel as living in the moment is something that can be a great thing or terrible. Sitting outside on my porch letting the sun hit my face and listening to nature is a moment I genuinely love being present in. Other moments though such as struggles with friends, relationships and money is a present moment I hate being in. My brain is so wired to be constantly wondering and worrying why things happened the way they did and why I deserved things. Being negative was one of the biggest factors which separated me from trying to live happily in the moment rather than dwelling my present life. This year being more mindful to myself, and my surroundings have helped me tremendously realize I don’t always need to live in those moments and instead focus on the present I’m currently in. I don’t believe you always have to be living in the present to live a meaningful life because it is ok to think and dwell on things that upset you but a healthy balance of living in the present and the past is very helpful in your lifetime.
August 16, 2023 at 12:29 am
Nadeem F
Growing up, I only lived with my mother and sister as my father was working hard to provide for us in the United States. I didn’t meet him until later in life when he returned to Ghana. I often wonder how my life would have been different if my father had been there with us, but I also know that the challenges we faced as a family helped shape the person I am today. My mother was incredible, she took care of us all by herself, cleaning the house, cooking for us, and making sure we were safe. Through her love and sacrifices, I learned that there’s nothing in the world that can break the bond between families. It’s incredible how much personal growth can come from facing challenges. The human spirit is truly resilient, and perseverance is key to achieving your dreams and overcoming obstacles. Despite being alone, my mother instilled important values in us and worked tirelessly to provide for us. Her example inspired me, teaching me that love is an unbreakable force that can conquer any obstacle. While I may have wondered what life would have been like with my father present, I realize that the challenges we faced as a family helped shape me into the person I am today. I believe that obstacles help shape who we become, but it’s through perseverance and the mindset we cultivate that we truly grow. I’m grateful for the sacrifices my mother made for our family and the lessons she taught me about the importance of love and family.
August 16, 2023 at 12:39 am
Living in the moment is about immersing myself in the depth of every interaction, every sensation, and every thought. It’s a reminder that the present is the only reality I can truly experience, and it’s where I have the power to shape my thoughts and actions. This practice has taught me to listen actively, to notice the subtleties of my surroundings, and to appreciate the nuances of life that might have gone unnoticed otherwise.
Embracing the present doesn’t mean ignoring responsibilities or planning for the future. Instead, it’s about infusing those tasks with intention and mindfulness. It’s finding a delicate balance between cherishing the current moment and making choices that will positively influence the moments to come.
Living in the moment has unlocked a profound sense of gratitude within me. I’ve learned to appreciate the smallest joys – a warm cup of tea, the laughter of a friend, the gentle touch of a loved one – as they unfold before me. These seemingly ordinary moments have become the building blocks of my happiness, creating a mosaic of memories that make up the tapestry of my life.
Through living in the moment, I’ve also discovered a newfound sense of authenticity. I’m more attuned to my emotions and thoughts, allowing me to respond to situations with greater empathy and understanding. This practice has deepened my connections with others, as I engage in conversations and interactions with genuine interest and empathy.
In essence, living in the moment is an ongoing journey of self-awareness, mindfulness, and appreciation. It’s a commitment to experiencing life fully, to savoring its sweetness and facing its challenges head-on. This philosophy has not only enriched my life, but it has also become a guiding light, reminding me that the most meaningful moments are the ones I’m living right now.
August 16, 2023 at 12:45 am
Edward B
The past few months have been flying by rapidly in retrospect. For instance, saying goodbye to my high school was something I have been dreading since the start of senior year… and at the same time, it happened in the blink of an eye. It was also a bittersweet feeling. On one hand, a door would be opening to welcome countless opportunities, including moving out and attending college. On the other hand, moving out and attending college can also be a terrifying thought. Graduating high school meant I would no longer be accustomed to the classmates I have met over four years of breaking out of my shell, however it also meant I had the opportunity to branch out and start my own life. To me, living in the moment is matter of perspective. One can allow their mind to dwell on the past and fear for the future, or they can soak in their surroundings to appreciate the present. If I were to dwell on the past, I would regret not going beyond my comfort zone to create more memories; If I were to fear for the future, I would panic that college is going to be an experience that I’m not ready for. However, by living in the present, one can put those negative thoughts to rest and remind themselves of what they have going for themselves. It is important to make every moment count, as cliche as it sounds. Instead of getting caught up in regret or anxiety, we can use our regrets as inspiration to put our best foot forward. As I prepare to head to college, I plan on doing the things I wish I could have done in high school like meeting new people, going out more, getting more involved, and simply grounding myself in the present.
August 16, 2023 at 12:53 am
Living in the moment, to me, is an art of embracing the present fully and authentically. It’s about immersing myself in the current experience, unburdened by regrets of the past or anxieties about the future. It’s a conscious choice to appreciate the simple joys and intricacies of life that often go unnoticed. Living in the moment is an invitation to engage all my senses – to relish the taste of my morning coffee, feel the warmth of the sun on my skin, and listen to the laughter of loved ones without distraction. It’s about being present in conversations, listening with intention, and sharing genuine connections. This practice helps me let go of the weight of expectations and comparisons, allowing me to find contentment in who I am and where I am right now. Moreover, living in the moment empowers me to pursue my passions and dreams without delay. It’s a reminder that time is precious, urging me to seize opportunities and take risks. It encourages me to view challenges as stepping stones, teaching me to learn from setbacks and grow stronger. Living in the moment means practicing gratitude daily – acknowledging the abundance around me and fostering a positive perspective. By embracing impermanence, I learn to navigate life’s changes with resilience and grace. In essence, living in the moment is my way of savoring life’s richness, cultivating deeper connections, and finding beauty in the ordinary. It’s a philosophy that enhances my well-being, reduces stress, and brings a profound sense of fulfillment to each day.
August 16, 2023 at 12:58 am
Throughout most of my years in high school, I would say I was a pretty boring kid. Woke up in the morning, went to class, went to sports. Afterwards, I did my homework. Then I went home. On the weekends when I didn’t have a game or a meet, I would be relaxing and trying to get ready for the school week. For most people routine is good. The thing is, I never strayed from mine at all. It was just a constant cycle of week in, week out doing the same thing.towards the end of my senior year I made a promise to myself to try and get out of this cycle as well as my comfort zone. What I was going to do was simply say yes to everything.If my friends or family ever asked me to do anything like go out I would just say yes. For the longest time I’ve hated having to go out of my way to change my way of life, but I think that forcing myself to do this would be a good experiment that could, for the most part, only go right. For example, last month my brother and his wife invited me to a cookout at her parents house house that I’d never been to before. Now obviously had to say yes. I remember walking into the back gate with my brother and immediately in the back of my mind, I was like, why am I here?The youngest people next to me were in their thirties, this was a mistake. I need to turn around immediately and go home But I didn’t. Went through every encounter until it wasnt awkward, tried new food and met new people. Being able to go into situations like these may come easy to many but I still think its something important to really notice when its happening and is why I beielive in growth. Is why I believe in the importance of taking that first step that makes you grow as a person and being their fully to embrace it.
August 16, 2023 at 1:10 am
In my early childhood adolescence, living in the moment was a concept hardly understood, yet was something that was so valued in my life. The countless summers that were spent running around with the neighborhood kids, worrying about nothing but who was the fastest on the block. Living in the moment was so over looked at that time.
Social media didn’t consume the life of myself nor my peers. We just lived. It’s nearly impossible for individuals to go out and enjoy dinner with their friends and family without having to take a photo of their chicken caesar salad. As we grow old, I find that we tend to focus on the more superstitious things. Who has the most followers ? Who gains the most likes? It’s ludicrous.
To me, living in the moment means you must live life to the fullest. You can’t take the small valuable things for granted. You need to cherish simple times such as watching a movie with your family, taking your dog for a walk, even lunch in the cafeteria with your friends . You can’t hesitate to take chances. You can’t worry about what may happen in the future. You just need to go for it. Life moves as fast as a blink of the eye.
August 16, 2023 at 1:13 am
Jaimee Kee Montilla
Living in the moment means when you’re enjoying life to the fullest without worrying about wasting time. You’re not stressed or worn out from school or work. You’re able to be calm and focus on you and your well-being. This summer felt like living in the moment. My best friend Nari and I just graduated our last year of high school together. We have been going to the same school for the last few years and now we only have one more summer together. Before Nari and I go to different schools that are an hour and half away from each other. Which means no more staying after school together or being able to crack a laugh in math class. Me and her said that this summer is going to be a movie and we made it happen. It started with just cruising around in the car then became late night adventures to us spending our last couple weeks together. From us going to the graffiti rocks to seeing Beyoncé and going to the store and buying our outfits for the concert. These last summer nights have been feeling like our summer movie is almost over. Me and my best friend realized that these last couple days have to be our greatest. One night together feels like a fun adventure and all the time together just shows that time is going by quickly and that the next time we see each other is gonna be during thanksgiving break and Christmas break. Living in the moment is important to me because it shows that time can either move too slow or too fast.
August 16, 2023 at 1:18 am
Bridget c
Living in the moment could mean a few things, like not taking your phone out at a concert, or focusing on the present moment and not living in the past or future. I believe that it is so important to live in the moment because life can flash before your eyes. When you are focused on the past decisions, or how your future will turn out, you are wasting the time you are given at the present moment. I think pictures and videos are amazing, but you are experiencing those memories through a screen. And they can be as easily lost as they are taken. I have never been one to record concerts, because when I do I notice I am worried about the video and watching the concert through the phone, when it is happening right in front of my eyes. Some of the best moments in our lives are ones that we are not worrying about remembering when it is actively happening. We are given so little time to experience everything around us and accomplish our dreams. I believe life is about living without worrying what’s going to happen tomorrow or staying caught up on that argument from last week. An unimaginable amount of things happen around us at every moment of our lives, so I believe that we should not be held back or down by not living in it. I believe living in the moment is the best way to live the short amount of time we are given, and yes we may not have videos of everything or cute pictures, but we will be left with the memories, feelings, and growth from what we experience.
August 16, 2023 at 1:26 am
Analyah K.
Everything and anything can happen within a split second, and then it’s gone, never to return again. Moments slip through your hands as if they’re covered in oil. You wish you could go back and relive them over and over again, the most precious and sacred times. They help us feel, to understand, to be human. I wish I realized that when I was younger, because then I would’ve appreciated the little things more often. The future dictated my mind, making me forget where I actually was: the present. Living in the moment grounds us to look around, smell, listen, observe your surroundings and take it in. Although I was always a timid and vigilant child, I’ve learned to “stop and smell the roses.” Let yourself live presently, not eventually. My way of living in the moment is asking myself, “Will I ever get this chance again?” If I think yes, I might wait for another day, but if not, then I take the opportunity and embrace it! Feed your human spirit with excitement and wonder, allow it to grow and prosper with experience. This is what life is all about, constantly changing, taking risks, saying what you need to say, doing what you need to do. We shouldn’t have to worry about what will happen, but rather what should happen. So, put the electronics away, connect with others, nature, animals, travel, whatever it may be! Live in the moment.
“The here and now is all we have, and if we play it right it’s all we’ll need.” – Ann Richards
August 16, 2023 at 1:34 am
Kayleigh W.
I believe that when you die, that’s it. There’s no heaven, no hell, no afterlife, no rebirth. When you die you’re gone forever. Before you existed you didn’t exist, and when you’re done existing you’ll never exist again. Your body once again becomes the dust that it came from and your mind goes into its final deepest sleep from which it’ll never wake.
Some people might be afraid of the idea of this nothingness after death. I find it very peaceful. That’s it? You’re gone? There’s nothing else? But that’s ok with me. Of every person that could exist, almost all of them never will. You get a beautiful chance to experience what it’s like to be alive. The world and everything that comes with it, the highs and lows of every emotion. And you’re not alone, you get to share all this with others who get this same chance. The price is that your time is limited.
Some people might be scared of the idea of being so small in such a big universe. I also find this very peaceful. You mean nothing I do really matters? In the vastness of the whole universe it doesn’t matter at all. You can make every mistake or do everything right, the universe doesn’t care. You’re just a tiny drop of water in the ocean of space.
So make those mistakes. Explore everything you can. Love a little harder. Because you only get one chance and you’ll never have another. The nothingness of death might seem a little daunting. But remember that you’re infinitely lucky to have been alive.
August 16, 2023 at 1:48 am
Matthew M,
I believe living in the moment is the best way to live a stress free life. My entire life I’ve been told to plan out every single second of my future, to plan the “perfect” life. All that really did was give me unrealistic expectations of what my life would look like and constantly have me stressing about the future. For the past few years I have decided to just see where life takes me. I can’t explain how many times I have changed what I wanted my future to look like and how many things have come along and changed my trajectory. It is impossible for us to predict what our lives will look like, even a week down the road. I think that some people need to better understand that everything can change in the matter of seconds and rather than living for the future, sometimes you need to live for your current self. I personally do not want to have any regrets later on in life so I want to make sure I take advantage of every opportunity given to me, even if it means straying off course from what my current plans were. I can’t say that I haven’t been nervous doing things on a whim before but I can say that no matter what it has always worked out in the end, at least in my personal experience. Some people may also take “living in the moment” as being reckless but I think the real meaning is to not take life for granted. I think it would be foolish for everyone to assume they’re going to live their lives exactly as planned because that’s almost never the case. Since I have decided to have this mindset I have had almost no stress about my future and I am able to make better decisions because I’m not basing them off of a plan that I made long before the current moment.
August 16, 2023 at 2:07 am
Kaysie T.
Are you constantly thinking about the past or stressing about the future? Or are you really living life moment by moment?
I believe life isn’t just waiting for the next event, milestone, vacation or even weekend. But living for more than that and every moment, experience, happening. Waiting for a reason to celebrate is just being alive while looking for reason to celebrate is living. Waiting is stopping you from living in the moment.
Not only is waiting stopping you from living but also focusing on your past. The past cannot be changed. Everything happens for a reason and using the present to dwell on what has already happened that you have no control is taking away from the moments you could be living.
The same goes for the future. While everyone wants a good set up for the future, the possibilities might scare you. One of those possibilities being that there is no future and if you spend now worrying about that you may spend your last moment worrying about something that’s not coming.
Stress and worries come and go but what you do in this moment is your choice. You have a choice every day and you should choose to live your best life and live in the moment. So many moments in life can be taken because you are so worried about what has happened or will happen, instead of what is happening. Far too often we worry about things that are just not important. Live in the moment.
Living in the moment means giving up the past. Living in the moment means stop worrying about the future. Living in the moment means loving and accepting even the things we cannot change and focusing on what we have control of. Being mindful of what is going on today. Find a way to enjoy every day. Work for your future but don’t worry about it. Learn from your past but don’t dwell on it. Live your life in a way that when you look back it’s not worries, regrets, and stress but instead every opportunity, chance, and memory you made.
August 16, 2023 at 2:12 am
Chloe SJ
Living in the moment has numerous different meanings. It could mean letting go of the past and not worrying about the future. It could mean you’re completely present and aware of your emotions and thoughts, or it could be acting out of impulse so you don’t regret your decisions later in life, and the list goes on and on. I believe living in the moment is bittersweet. For example, I have this excitement of growing up to the age I’ve always dreamed about but also grieving away my childhood, which makes me appreciate the small, mundane moments. Sometimes feeling this way makes me worry about how much I’m missing moments while still living it. Growing up, I never thought I was ever “living in the moment” because I was so focused on my past my whole life. But, without my past struggles, I won’t be who I am because of it. See, living within the moment brings the concept of the duality of life, the good and the bad. You could be going through a ruff situation, but something good always comes from it. Even if you think there is not any “good,” that will happen. Living in the moment is life, which is one big blessing in disguise.
August 16, 2023 at 2:14 am
Monica M
Living in the moment was always a difficult concept for myself to endure, especially when life throws obstacles that I was not ready for. Seeing the bigger picture can be a challenge in life, especially when having to prioritize certain factors of what I think needs more attention than others. However, as I think too much about what lies ahead, it brings me back to question myself and wonder if I am living in the moment or am I just wanting a distraction. As these feelings of doubt and stress constantly cross my mind, the desire of wanting to live in the moment starts to become a blur. I believe that finding yourself within those tough times is an accomplishment within itself to become a stronger and independent individual.
The great significance with living in the moment can become overwhelming, whereas the want for simplicity can take over. As time passes by, the meaning of life can be fulfilled by understanding what it means to live in the moment. In my own experience, living in the moment creates a feeling where I know that I may not ever get this exact moment back again. During these times, nothing else seemed to matter to me at all. The feeling of simplicity occurred during a time where I was floating down a river in a raft where all I could hear was the calming sound of rain hitting the water, feeling the cold raindrops on my skin, my clothes getting soaked, seeing the fog amongst the trees, it made me notice that this is a precious moment that I will never get back again. It became elusive at that point. Where the longing for the feeling of being content made me feel like I could do anything. Being in the present made me take the scenery all in without any distractions. At that moment I had knew that the desire for simplicity cannot be forced as it will be draining, can be draining as it cannot be a forced, but it will eventually come to you with ease and that shouldn’t be taken for granted.
August 16, 2023 at 2:25 am
Growing up we are always told to prepare for our futures and to always look forward to the life that we have ahead of us. But no one ever tells you to appreciate the experiences along the way. As children we are always in a rush to grow up and become independent. We never truly appreciate the days of being care free and doing things that were fun to us. We are always left looking back and taking things for granted, wishing we could’ve done more. I feel as though many opportunities flew by me because of the fact that I didn’t live in the moment. There also have been many instances where I wished for something to be over and not taking into consideration how I’m going to feel afterwards once’s it is over. Kids should be taught to embrace being young more and enjoy every little moment that they have have. You only live once and you shouldn’t live a life full of regrets.
I never thought that there wouldn’t be another opportunity to do things. As I grow older I try to take an opportunity whenever it come because you never know when or if there will be another opportunity. I encourage others to do the same. Break out of your comfort zone and try new things. Live life to the fullest.
August 16, 2023 at 2:40 am
What I believe in and try to live my life by is introspection. Introspection is to look inward and evaluate your own thoughts, beliefs, and biases. Through simply living life, everyone gains new experiences. Some travel the world, meet new people, and gain experiences quickly; some live in the same small town all their life and rarely see new things. In either case, one’s opinions are the result of using one’s wisdom to interpret past experiences. People naturally grow in both wisdom and experience, though some certainly faster than others. To hold onto opinions formed from fewer experiences using past wisdom even after you have grown doesn’t make any sense.
The goal of life is to be happy. Some people choose an ambition they think will make them happy and set a 40 year plan in motion. But during that time they will have changed, and the path they’re currently stuck on is far from ideal. If you’re happy, you’ve won at the game of life. There’s nothing left but to sit back and enjoy it. But if you aren’t happy, you have to keep re-evaluating yourself and your beliefs until you know what you need to be happy.
Of course, there’s nothing wrong with sticking to your core beliefs. If you think with newfound wisdom on experiences and information both new and old, and find you still agree with your position, keep believing in it. It’s just important to ensure your beliefs grow with you.