A Double Challenge from Elizabeth Pantley…

I suppose as busy, multi-tasking women, many of us are at risk of not “living in the moment.” I know I am constantly trying to cram too much into my day – and even when I am spending time with my son or doing some enjoyable tasks, I am often keeping one eye on the clock and not truly experiencing the moment.

While reading Elizabeth Pantley’s book, “The No Cry Discipline Solution,” a passage about being distracted when we are with our children convicted me:

“Think of the times you sit on the floor playing with your child. Not being in the moment is when you are watching the clock, worrying about other things you must do, or feeling bored with children’s games. Being in the moment is choosing to truly connect and enjoy your child – even if it’s only for ten minutes – watching her mouth form words as she speaks, watching her hands as she expresses her ideas, enjoying the enthusiasm of her imagination, listening to her ideas, absorbing what she believes, and cherishing the little person that she is.

The added beauty of being in the moment is that your child will feel the difference. Having a distracted Mommy or Daddy sitting beside her on the floor as she plays feels very different than having the same parent engaged and absorbing the beauty of the moment. And it is the combination of many such moments that builds a relationship.

The more you can embrace living in the moment as a part of you who you are, the more fulfilling your everyday life will be.” Page 37

Her words hit me hard, challenging me on two levels.

First, as a mom and an aunt, her words describe me many days of the week. I adore my son and my niece, but during our time together I often find myself looking at the clock, mentally going through my to-do list, stressing inwardly about all I need to get done. Not only do I miss out on enjoying the kids and truly relishing the joy of being with them, but they are short changed by me and my multi-tasking obsessions.

Second, I was convicted on a spiritual level in my relationship with God. Gone are the days when I would spend concentrated hours in study and contemplation. Now my times with the Lord are often scattered and pieced together. Most often my prayers times are interrupted and fragmented. While some of this comes with being the mother of a young child, most of the blame is completely mine. I am not putting enough effort and passion into my time with God. I am half hearted and distracted.

I am so grateful for this reminder from Elizabeth Pantley. I don’t want to deprive my children, my God or myself of the blessing of “living in the moment.” I want to be fully present, demonstrating that I love and appreciate my time with them.

Do you find it challenging to have quality time God – are you easily distracted? What lessons have helped you to remember to “live in the moment?”

PS - I will be reviewing and giving away a copy of the “No-Cry Discipline Solution” soon in 5 Minutes for Mom’s regular book review column, 5 Minutes for Books. But in the meantime, be sure to click over and check out Elizabeth’s great resources. She has written several parenting books.