Presence｜Living in the Present : Lessons from a Moonlit Hike

In the gentle embrace of the New Moon, a rare solar eclipse graced our skies, marking a moment of profound significance. It was under this celestial wonder that I, alongside new friends, went hiking on the West Mountain.

Awakening the next morning, my mind was a tapestry woven with the memories of the previous night – the rugged paths, the twinkling stars, and the soothing caress of the night breeze. Most vivid in my recollection was a moment of serene joy: an unexpected detour that led us off track for half an hour as we descended the mountain. Yet, this 'mistake' became the most peaceful, joyous interval I could remember.

The road was a ribbon of tar, unlit, save for the faint glimmer of lights from the village below. As we walked, I looked up to see the moon, shining a little brighter than before. The breeze, perfect in temperature and humidity, kissed my skin, leaving a feeling of lightness and freedom in my soul.

Even with the knowledge that the descent was inevitable, I yearned to savor every moment in the mountains. Without hurry, I embraced the beauty of each present moment, fully enjoying the company of my companions and the essence of myself in these fleeting instants.

Looking back, every hidden detail of that journey seems strung together like pearls on a string. It felt as though the universe, under the auspice of the New Moon, was imparting a profound revelation to me – a promise of significant beginnings for the months ahead.

Life, too, is such a journey. Often, in our rush to reach the 'end', we lose sight of the beauty along the way. We forget to live in the moment, missing the beauty of the moonlit night, too focused on the descent.

But what does the descent really signify? It's merely a point in the journey. After descending, we return home, and life goes on in its endless cycle. There is no final destination in this journey of life.

What truly matters is the ability to share the tranquility, joy, and completeness I experienced in the mountains – the gentle breeze, the stars, the fascinating companions – rather than boasting about the speed of my descent.

In that moment, gazing up at the moon over the mountains, I realized I was no longer the person I used to be.

I had transformed into someone living freely and authentically for myself.

I had become more courageous and adept at forging meaningful connections with others.

I had evolved into a person who listens more than speaks, deeply moved by the stories of others, like a friend's experiences in Myanmar, raw and unrefined. The tears in her eyes spoke volumes, a depth of emotion previously unnoticed by me.

I no longer strive to control or acquire, for I see every moment as a hymn to the natural world.

Nor do I judge others based on their actions or choose my company accordingly. Everyone is simply a soul on their own unique journey, none superior or inferior to another.

I am me, a solitary being, not defined by any group or deed. Each of us, simply by existing, is a part of the universe, deserving of love and value.

In pursuit of self-compassion and presence, here's a nugget of wisdom from my mentor:

Start your day focusing on the first hour. Manifest a clear, specific vision of your path, then take the next step. It's about finding the balance between your grand vision and the actions of each day.