Marcel Proust, the famous writer, says in one of his novels:
The only true voyage of discovery […] would be not to visit strange lands but to possess other eyes
I have realised that along the way. After 3 months in South America, visiting many countries and many wonderful places, it occurred to me that my eyes were closed for most of the time. The true voyage I’ve taken was across my mind, contemplating many thoughts, creating new, imaginary scenarios – none of them real! Every time I tried to pull out and stay present, my operating system (i.e. habitual ego) was dragging me back into compulsive thinking. Every time I stayed with the present for long enough I enjoyed myself tremendously and I count those moments as the happiest, the most memorable of all. Somehow, I don’t have many pictures capturing those moments!
I begin to understand why so many resonate so strongly with Eckhart Tolle’s “The Power of Now”. The simple (but not easy) act of paying attention to my thoughts transformed many ordinary moments into extraordinary experiences. At the same time I realised how much time I spend in the realm of thoughts, that is only minuscule part of the reality.
After returning to Sydney I noticed how people and places, I saw so many times before, suddenly came alive in a new way. I guess I brought from my trip a new set of eyes!
New eyes means new inspirations and new project, some of which I’d like to share with you.
Tomeck, I loved reading your message again. I also read ( The Power Of Now), year’s ago. Always being interested in this subject along with all the rest. I loved to listen to John Cabot Zin too.
Thanks for pointing out that everyone drifts away, but you’re also right that when you are in the moment it’s so wonderful. Hoping it stays, but that, (ego), has to step in and ruin everything. The more you practice the easier it is to get back to that amazing place. Only to start the process over again, as long we are with attention.
Your message was helpful and clear. Please keeping sending them.