We move fast in the world in which we live. Those who came before knew no such pace, and as technology advances more and more around us, we are being sold the idea that faster is better; that more is better. We are made to believe that we simply don’t have enough. One more thing, one more “upgrade,” and we will be where we ought to be. But when that time comes, and we move on to the bigger and better, upon our very heels is the next thing, even bigger, and even better. We are told this is progress, that no one gets anywhere standing still. But what if we are wrong?
I believe in a slower world. A world in which thought, feeling and action are made with deliberation, and purpose. I believe in a world that is beautiful as it is in the present moment, not merely in what it may be in the future. I believe that if I do not learn to love what is, I cannot love what will be.
This is something that I must strive to learn, and a way of living that requires effort. Because I have not grown to be this way naturally, as I have been pushed hither and thither by the ever-changing culture about me, tossed by winds that change direction with the times and trends. There is a barrier between me and the life that I desire to live. I must devote strength to pushing aside this barrier.
Today, I vow to stand still and live in this moment of existence; to see what is in front of me; to breathe the air I am given, and savour it; to hear the sounds of trees and water and voices, and to truly listen to them; to give to the need at hand as I am made able; to tangibly love those who are placed in my path today; to be grateful for what is, and not allow what might be to rob me of it; to feel what is in my hands, and let go of what is not. Today, I vow to be alive.
love,
— Joel