The Gift of Now

Cherished Readers,

All we have is now. As I write this, it sounds like a power ballad from the '80s. But it is true. I am profoundly grateful for this now, the everlasting moment that constantly falls before us, beckoning us on this trail of life.

Inside the now lies a multitude of decisions that, in an instant, could change your life. We all live in the past, and there's a place for it—looking back at cherished memories, adventures, and good times. Reminiscing is nice. Of course, there are people trapped in their past, wanting to escape the pain that has wrenched their hearts. Then there are those future-obsessed, always planning and figuring out where they will be or what they will do in seven months. It’s an admirable trait, don't get me wrong, who doesn’t remember the grasshopper and the ant fable? Or the line made famous in Game of Thrones, “Winter is coming”. But sometimes in our haste to plan and strategise, we overlook the gift of the now, this very moment which in itself is a miracle and a blessing.

It is in this moment, this very moment you are reading this, that you are in connection with the infinite—the present. It is in this moment that realizations hit about yourself, life, or your family. You can become illuminated with an idea that could change your life. It is in the present we meet God and can talk to Him. We can choose to forgive only in the present. It is in the present that an addict decides they are not going to live a certain way anymore. To maintain their sobriety, they must fight to stay in the present. The present is where life unfolds. And the present is where people can’t bear to be. Go into any public space and watch how people will do anything to avoid feeling a moment in time, always finding ways to distract themselves. Again, I’m not saying that we should all be making our way to a silent retreat center, but finding a moment of clarity in your day, a check-in for this miracle that you are experiencing, is essential.

A Blessing for You ✨

May each one of us who reads this newsletter never take the gift of the present for granted. God willing, may we fill the present moment with joy, gratitude, peace, love, prayer, community, and valuable work. May the beauty of the present reveal its self to you and may you revel in it.

Reflection 🤔

Let’s give thanks for this very moment that you are reading this. Many people live moment to moment in terror for a myriad of reasons. If you are blessed enough to open this newsletter and simply be aware of this very moment as it is passing, then hold some gratitude in your heart. Give thanks to our Creator, who gives us each of these moments and brought us into the world to experience this present moment, forever passing.

Have a Blessed Week ⚡️

God Bless 🙏,

Michael Mccarthy 🫡