This is a good reminder for all of us.

I come back to this quote again and again, reciting it in my head like a mantra for the present moment.

It seems I need this quote most when I would least expect it. Mostly I remind myself of this on nights and weekends when my anxiety seems to dwell in the spaces of free time and endless lists of chores and desires. When my mind and heart are bursting, eager to go out and live but also to stay in and read those books that have been gathering dust. When I mentally calculate if I’m making good use of my time (I’m spending on our Earth) being productive with taking it easy, rejuvenating and enjoying myself.

I think about this quote when I’m driving and unfocused and fretting about an upcoming meeting (worry not, just prepare). I think about it when I remind myself of the stupid things I’ve said or done (dwell not, learn from mistakes). I think about it when I feel lost about what’s to come with my future (stress not, make a list and how to accomplish them).

And then I take a big deep breath, recite it again and try to live, once again, in the present moment.

“If you are depressed you are living in the past.

If you are anxious you are living in the future.

If you are at peace you are living in the present.”

~ Lao Tzu