Presence in the Present

I walk into the New Year with both energetic possibility and anxious expectation. 

There is something about a new year, a new month or even a new week which still brings me the excitement of possibility.  The calendar renews itself and we have a new beginning.  Whatever was in the past or didn’t work before is behind us and we have a fresh start.  Beginnings are a do-over with endless possibility.

New years and new beginnings can also bring great expectation. We often conjure up visions of better, more, happy or easier.

As a dear mentor once cautioned me… expectations can be resentments under construction. When we put too much expectation or grandiose vision on our new beginning the reality may not live up to the ideal. 

Small confession: I have spent more than one New Year chasing after prosperity, a job, a career or a happenstance; a vision and expectation perhaps too grand. 

So this year I am changing the equation.  

Instead of the expectation, I am seeking presence.  Divine presence to be exact. And the hope of Divine leading as well. 

As this odd new chapter in history has unfolded, I have felt the certainty of uncertainty more than ever.  For some this brings fear, anxiety, worry. 

For me, I have tried to stay open to the freedom of uncertainty and the inherent call to focus on the present and my presence. 

I am learning it is in the present and with my presence I can bring the most of what I have to offer.  To my family, to my friends, to my greater community.  And in doing so, I trust in the ripple effect reaching our wider world.  

Be here now, is the call I hear when I step on my yoga mat.   

Be here now, is the call I hear when I walk in creation with my pup.  

Be here now, is the call I hear as I step into this New Year. 

And what a simple and glorious call it is.