Being Present Without Escaping
Presence is often talked about as something peaceful and serene.
But that’s not always how it feels.
Sometimes presence is simply choosing not to leave.
Staying With the Life You’re In
There are seasons, especially for parents or caregivers, where being present feels nearly impossible. Your body is tired. Your attention is pulled in a dozen directions. You may feel touched-out, overwhelmed, or emotionally stretched thin.
Presence doesn’t mean you suddenly feel calm.
Presence means you stop abandoning the moment.
It might look like taking a breath even while your nervous system is activated. Letting yourself feel irritation and tenderness at the same time. Allowing your life to be exactly what it is without rushing through it.
Not because you’re forcing gratitude.
Because you’re choosing honesty.
Daydreaming Isn’t the Problem
I’ve always been a daydreamer. As a child, I would sit on the floor surrounded by travel brochures, imagining places I hadn’t yet seen. Some of those daydreams eventually became real.
So no, daydreaming isn’t the issue.
The difference is whether you’re daydreaming because it brings joy… or because you’re trying to escape the life you’re living.
You’re allowed to imagine.
You’re allowed to look forward.
You’re allowed to remember.
Just don’t build a home in the past.
And don’t abandon the present while waiting for the future.
Daydream, then come back down.
And be here.
Look Back Long Enough to Let Go
There is value in reflection. Not to rehash or replay, but to recognize what no longer needs to be carried forward.
Sometimes growth requires looking back long enough to name what you’re ready to release. Then letting it go.
The invitation is balance. Reflection without fixation. Memory without living there.
Presence doesn’t mean pretending everything is okay.
It means staying with what’s real.