The Importance of Being Present in Our Own Lives

No doubt that living day to day can be rough. In fact it can be so rough that anxiety causes us to form self destructive habits. It can be as simple as overeating, smoking, drinking and taking drugs. Often it starts with something little such as overeating or smoking cigarettes that leads to more destructive habits like smoking pot or drinking everyday to be able to deal with life situations or to relax. People that take up these habits are not bad people. Most of them do not realize that these substances take away from us being present in our own lives. What does that mean exactlty?

Being present in our own life is when we are sober, healthy and aware of our surroundings. Taking a walk with your dog and enjoying the breeze that flows around you is being present. Watching kids play baseball and really taking in the moment is being present. Noticing and appreciating all of the little things that God has created for us is being present in our own lives. Having that moment of reflection that brings an amazing rush of happiness and joy to our lives is being present.

When people form addictions they become less and less present in their own lives. A good example of this is the tv show "Intervention". Almost every addict started using due to feelings of depression or anxiety. Maybe something tragic happened to them that hurt them deeply. Everyone's stories are unique and valid. Recognizing these feelings and correcting the behavior is challenging. Most of the time addicts hit rock bottom and are forced into rehab in some way. They do not go unless it is the absolute last choice.

For those who have mild addictions and are aware enough to recognize them, getting help is like standing up and screaming "God loves me and wants me to love me too." Loving ourselves is one of the hardest things that we will ever have to do. Taking care of our bodies is loving ourselves. Being present in our life is loving ourselves. Being able to help other people because we love ourselves is loving ourselves.

God sent us here to be present in our lives. Being present is not always easy. In fact, it can be one of the hardest things that we will ever have to do. Nothing good is easy. So many people are not present in their lives and miss signs that God sends us. Watch the signs and notice them. They will never be bad signs and will come at the right time. We are showing our love for God when we become present in our own lives. Acknowledge His love for us by being present and able to help others spread the good message of love.