A new year has arrived & with it reflections on the passage of time. The year behind us is over and if we dare, we can look back and consider: have we lived well? have we been fully present for the people we love or the people we know, have we been present for ourselves?
Taking note of time, whether consciously or unconsciously, we surely register that we are closer to the day of our death. The younger generation is sprouting up behind us, full of the sass of youth, the juicy sap that compels them to grow relentlessly beyond us. They may be unaware now, but before long, they too will realize that impermanence is the destiny for all of us.
Are we ready to face our death? Our life? What are we waiting for? What are the "conditions" that will make coming home to our true selves possible? Although our minds continue to feed us the lie that we won't be ready until we accomplish this or that goal - money, love, career, you name it - , there is NOTHING we need to wait for.
We are alive, now. Next year at this time we may or may not be. Right now, we have all the conditions we need to welcome this day and be grateful for it. To look at the people in our lives, really see them, and say, "I am here for you." I am here. I am. What a wondrous awareness to accept this blessing of life. Yes, it is 2011 already! Welcome to the new day, the new year.
