It is hard to stay in the moment.

We were out to dinner one night with friends, and a large group of teenagers were about three tables away from us. They were having a going away party for one of their friends, but I noticed how quiet they were. I looked over, and every one of them had their heads down either texting someone (probably someone at the same table) or emailing someone.

It’s hard to stay in the moment, hard to stay in today when we are so easily distracted. I am one of the worst offenders. That same evening, I was checking  scores on my phone and not engaging in the conversation! We can all be distracted.

What is so important over there that takes me away from here? When I am in the moment, I am focused and I am engaged. I am showing others that I care, I am interested, and they are important. The question to ask myself is, “When I allow myself to be distracted, to wander off mentally, am I showing others that I care?” I don’t think so! Ouch!

“So don’t be anxious about tomorrow. God will take care of your tomorrow too. Live one day at a time.”
—Matthew 6:34

So, today I want to say, Lord, thank You for today.

My prayer is that I, you, and we stay in the moment of today and not be distracted by worries about tomorrow or sins of yesterday.  Lord, help me to remember that yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery and that today is a gift from You.

May our attention be focused on those around us, just as You focus on us. Guide and direct us to stay in the moment. Amen.

Have a focused day.