What does it mean to be present?
Dr. Shefali Tsabary, author of “The Conscious Parent” says that although parents are tempted to shower their children with gifts to buy their affection, what children really want is our full, engaged presence. Who doesn’t want that?
To me being present means clearing the space of all distractions and truly listening without judgment. What is my friend feeling? Sometimes a person finds their own feelings intolerable. My attention shows him that I can tolerate his feelings and accept them even if he can’t. I want her to know that she is safe with me, and I hope that I have earned her trust.
I try to offer this safe place to myself, too. It’s harder to be present with myself than with others. When I invite unwanted feelings to surface and face them right on, it’s amazing how they resolve themselves. Shining light dissipates darkness. It’s a constant dance, but well worth it!
How about you? What does being present mean to you?
