“Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift. That’s why it’s called the present.” (Bill Keane)
I turn 44 in a few months, and God-willing I am nearing the midpoint of the marathon of my life. This milestone (?) has prompted me to reflect upon my last few decades and to look forward towards what I hope will be several more.
As I think about how to maximize my remaining years, I find myself returning to a recurring image: the horizon. Be it an expansive view from a mountaintop or a colorful sky over the ocean at sunset, a beautiful horizon instills awe and a sense of inner peace. But it can also prompt two conflicting perspectives:
Is a horizon something to be enjoyed in the moment for what it is, a soul-nurturing experience to simply take in?
Or… Is it something with deeper meaning, a metaphorical far-off destination (i.e., person, place, thing, goal, etc.) we should yearn for?
For me, the answer becomes clearer with each passing year.
Too many of us (myself included) are so focused on what’s next that we fail to fully realize–let alone express gratitude for–the simple, miraculous moments we experience every day or take stock of our countless current blessings.
Perhaps the Greek philosopher, Epicurus, said it best: “Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not; remember that what you now have was once among the things you only hoped for.”
As far as yearning for and seeking out distant horizons, it is a bit of a fool’s errand because no matter how hard we try, it is impossible to reach the horizon. We can walk for 5 miles or run for 500, but we will not be a single step closer to reaching it. I would argue we are worse off for having attempted it—our peaceful view is no more, we are weary from the journey, and frustration has set in.
In no way am I suggesting we should not pursue virtuous goals—quite the opposite, as another key ingredient to happiness is engaging in purposeful endeavors—but our objective should not be some ideal “place” we have built up in our heads, but a deep appreciation for the journey and the simple, everyday experiences along the way.
During my remaining years, I hope to be more deliberate about enjoying the present moment, taking in the beauty around me, and counting my many blessings rather than being hopeful for the things I do not possess.