Sometimes, we forget to enjoy now because we get caught up in thinking joy comes later. I’ll enjoy the moment when I accomplish this or that. I’ll be happy when this problem is resolved. I can relax and enjoy life after I’ve jumped these hurdles.
In looking ahead, in focusing on forward motion, don’t miss the enjoyment of the present.
Following are reflections on enjoying now:
Cherish Moments
Enjoying now applies even if you aren’t dealing with grief or loss. The pace of life is rapid for all of us and seems to speed up with each birthday. We miss so much when we forget to cherish the present.
For me, some of the most cherished moments are time spent with family. The giggles of grandchildren and family togetherness wrap me in contentment.
Each day, look for and cherish little things—flowering plants, emerald grass, gentle rain, lush vegetation, birdsong, a cool breeze, moments of solitude and reflection. All the little things add depth and vibrancy to our days and shouldn’t be missed or glossed over.
Count Blessings
One of the ways I am maintaining forward motion as I navigate loss is to count past and present blessings. I’m thankful for 43-plus years of marriage, despite the challenging parts. I’m grateful for my heritage—a close, loving, godly family (both sides), cousins who hold up my arms in hard times and come along beside me with encouragement and support, precious friends with whom we “do life,” and the house that has been my home for 35 years. My children and grandchildren are my greatest blessings. Their love and presence brings great joy. Remembering blessings grounds me.
As you struggle through life’s hard seasons, count your blessings, and remember God’s faithfulness.
Spiritual Growth
When you face life’s challenges, hardships, and unexpected occurrences, you discover the depth of your faith. Many people blame God for life losses and difficulties. Instead, look for God at work in and through hardship. When life is difficult, you either trust God’s goodness and faithfulness, or you don’t. I choose to trust because I have a history with God that bears out his love and provision for my life.
Since Jim’s death, my relationship with God has grown. I feels God’s presence in a tangible way and am experiencing a sense of peace that is beyond the world’s understanding. I am confident I can move forward because of God’s faithful guidance. I cherish God’s presence and enjoy my relationship with him. He is ever-present.
No matter what you are dealing with, God is available to help you. Accept that support. It will allow you to enjoy now.
“I [Jesus] came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance [to the full, till it overflows]” (John 10:10 AMP).
©CandyArrington
Candy Arrington is an award-winning writer, blogger, and speaker. She often writes on tough topics with a focus on moving through, and beyond, difficult life circumstances. Candy has written hundreds of articles, stories, and devotions published by numerous outlets including: Inspiration.org, Arisedaily.com, CBN.com, Healthgrades.com, Care.com, Focus on the Family, NextAvenue.org, CountryLiving.com, and Writer’s Digest. Candy’s books include Life on Pause: Learning to Wait Well (Bold Vision Books), When Your Aging Parent Needs Care (Harvest House), and AFTERSHOCK: Help, Hope, and Healing in the Wake of Suicide (B&H Publishing Group).
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