What do you believe about living in the moment?
Post submissions here that match this topic thread in comments.
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What do you believe about living in the moment?
Post submissions here that match this topic thread in comments.
Theme by Anders Noren — Up ↑
June 28, 2024 at 6:10 pm
Our face as technology
Something that made me question a previous belief is technology. Growing up, I embraced technology as a means to connect, learn, and entertain. I believed that it was an unqualified force for good. However, as technology has taken over the world, I’ve noticed its profound impact in our lives, and not all of it is positive.
While technology has brought us many wonderful advancements, it has also led to a significant lack of genuine communication. We seem to be locked up in a dark room, living in a fantasy. People scroll through social media, seemingly connected to hundreds of others, yet rarely engaging in meaningful, face to face conversations. It appears that no one is paying attention, no one seems to care about living in the moment. This digital attachment we’ve surrounded ourselves in is isolating us from real world interactions and experiences.
This realization hit home during a friend’s gathering when I was still in high school. Instead of the usual lively conversations, I noticed everyone was glued to their screens, it was such an awkward moment for me. It was as if we were together but entirely alone. This exact friends expressed anxiety about participating in simple activities. We can’t even be independent without our phones, always arching for answers and always coming up with non original work. We went from being creative in kindergarten to being closed minded in our adulthood.
This belief is important to me because genuine human connection is essential for our well being. For our community at UMassD, recognizing the impact of technology on our interactions can help up find deeper connections. By putting our devices down and engaging with the world around us, we can build a more supportive and present community.
July 2, 2024 at 2:55 am
I agree that living in the moment is key for living an enjoyable life. What you said about people being glued to screens and living their lives online is exactly what i was thinking too. People watch other people that they admire, for good or worse, and they start to act like them or try to at least. People also talk to more people online than they do in real life, giving them a warped sense of socialization. Good essay!
July 12, 2024 at 5:36 am
I agree wholeheartedly surrounding the idea that technology was once embraced and is now detrimental to the connections we have and create. We all once appreciated the new opportunities it brought us but it is important to address this problem that it has become for our interpersonal relationships. After reading this I am reminded that I too want to stay mindful of this when it comes to building friendships in our community at school.
August 15, 2024 at 5:33 am
Justin Coelho
I can agree with you on this one. I feel like everyone is using technology more and more everyday, instead of having a real conversations with each other.
August 2, 2024 at 5:01 am
I completely agree with you, I feel like nowadays nobody can have an actual conversation with somebody without technology, and that everything revolves around technology now.
Connecting with people face to face like you said helps us interact better, and have deeper connections with others.
Putting our devices down would help us be more present in life, and probably help us as individuals as well.
August 7, 2024 at 8:39 pm
-Cameron C
I agree technology has completely consumed people face to face social skills, everyone is glued to their phone at all times and forgot how to just have a conversation. After reading this it makes me realize more and more how people need to better connect with one another and learn about someone’s personality without social media. This was an outstanding essay, great work!
September 4, 2024 at 3:29 am
– Connor McCarthy
I completely agree with the message of living in the moment especially free of technology. I can remember my friend’s mother who told us to go out without any technology and meet new people. At the time we didn’t do this as much, but now I have changed my beliefs. Living in the momment free of any technology is key to socializing. Overall great work.
August 13, 2024 at 11:45 pm
Anthony D
I was surprised when I came to believe that being an adult isn’t as fun as I imagined it would be. In every kid’s life they tend to rush to the thought of being an adult. Most with the idea of being able to make more money and have more freedom to do what they want to do. What a lot of them don’t realize is the responsibility, dedication, and sacrifice that comes with becoming an adult. When thinking about being an adult the thought for me was that all the money I made would go right into a bank account that remains untouched until a purchase is about to be made for a game or a toy you have been wanting, but in fact it isn’t that way at all. The real truth is the money made is simply just to help you survive by purchasing food, water, shelter and any other essentials needed like shampoo, toothpaste, clothing, etc. And the leftover money is what you have left to spend right? Wrong it’s what must be saved just in case of emergencies or unknown events that just pop up. What might be hard to believe is that most adults wish they could be kids again, Why could this be? Because when I was a kid I had all the freedom I could have wanted, not having to worry about managing time with a job or with friends. Not having to worry about money knowing that if I really showed that I wanted something my parents would have my back and help me get it if I didn’t have the money. So why rush through childhood instead of enjoying it?
August 15, 2024 at 3:07 am
Mason B
Growing up, I always felt like I was surrounded by teammates and coaches that cared and respected me just as I always did them. Now when I remember it, it helps me see clearly how naive I was. Sports have been a big part of my life since before I could walk, basketball specifically. I can still remember being the tallest kid on the team when I was younger, standing over everyone, looking down on them as they looked up to me. It had a unique sense of entitlement because in everyone’s eyes I was essential to the team, making sure that no one scored on my team’s hoop as well as scoring points on the other team’s hoop to help us win. It felt great to always be the center of attention, especially when coaches used to tell their players, “Stop him at all costs.” It was a feeling I never wanted to go away; however, like all great things, it never lasts forever. Everyone got older, taller, stronger, and pushed themselves to develop skills that could help them overcome their shortcomings so that they could stand out and keep up with everyone. It became clear to me how easy it is to be thrown aside like you were nothing at all. Your teammates that looked up to you now see you eye to eye, and your coaches are thinking more about your replacement than you. It showed me how foolish children can really be when they desire attention.
September 3, 2024 at 2:56 pm
I feel the same way when it comes to football. I was always taller than everyone and the best player on my team. When we get older everyone starts to grow and talent begins to develop. Even though things are not the same I still love the game and can’t wait to support my teammates this year.
August 27, 2024 at 2:18 am
I can’t agree more, when i was younger I always thought about being older and having more freedom but now that I’m here I wish I could go back. Being older and having to worry about money and taking care of yourself is tiring, when we were younger we had minimal worries. Worries like wanting to stay up past our bedtime or what snacks we were going to have at snack time. Time management and stress is one of the worst things about being an adult!
September 4, 2024 at 12:57 am
Jack O’Loughlin
It is definitely a very interesting topic to think about. It is a constant experience that is more or less universal. Throughout life you continuously look back and wish you could be there and not have to deal with what you are currently going through. Whether it’s something as simple as an upcoming project or test, or something more complex. This practice is a common misstep however. It consistently leads to dissatisfaction in one’s own life, as well as portraying a played up image of the past.
September 4, 2024 at 2:48 am
I 100% agree with you. I feel like everyone says “I cannot wait to grow up” but in reality, it can be very hard once you actually become an adult. Amazing essay!
September 4, 2024 at 3:16 am
Ethan P
I agree with this, my parents are always saying how they wish they were a kid again
because work is hirable. They wish they come home tired and just wanna lay down. They want to go out with their friends but they are just too tired.
August 14, 2024 at 3:29 pm
I completely agree on this statement, technology seems to be everyone’s favorite thing and yet everyone’s nightmare. Technology has helped humanity come together and continues to spread worldwide news and allows us to all stay connected, but young people especially have started to compare themselves relentlessly to others on Instagram and other social platforms, which I believe can induce anxiety which will likely stick with them for a while if not forever. A similar situation is at concerts how everyone is always on their phones and never just enjoying the moment, I understand wanting to have videos to keep forever and videos to post on social media (all comes full circle I see), but why not just put the phone down and savor the moment? Really good essay by the way, I enjoyed reading it!
August 14, 2024 at 10:09 pm
I completely agree with you, I feel as if having access to a world of entertainment at all times in our pockets has changed the world greatly, I feel it is now more common to see kids our age glued to their phone screen rather than having meaningful face to face conversations with friends and it is very sad to see.
August 14, 2024 at 10:20 pm
Ryan Snow –
I believe that now more than ever it is extremely difficult for our generation to live in the moment, with endless distractions in the world such as technology, school and your job , it feels as if there is never any time to take a second and really appreciate the moment. This year more than ever I have learned what it really means to live in the moment, towards the end of the school year I began to realize that I am never going to be in high school again and I should be making the most of the limited time I have left. I believe this was a mentality that spread throughout the school which was great to see and towards the end of the year it started to feel like everyone was becoming friends and the grade felt united in a way it never had before. I believe this to be due to the fact everyone got the same sense that it really was coming to an end and no one wanted to leave with any regrets. I feel as if the last month of school really showed me how to truly appreciate every point in life and live in the moment but also I learned it is important to not only enjoy the moment but to not fear what comes next. I learned that wher ther you like it or not, life goes on and you have to learn to adapt and thrive with these changes rather than fear these changes. Overall I believe that it is very important to enjoy and live in the moment while also not letting the moment consume you.
August 16, 2024 at 4:02 am
I couldn’t agree more with this post & i experienced and similar realization. Living in the moment has allowed me so many new opportunities and relationships that i wouldn’t have if i was on my phone or not open to new experiences because of what i am used to. Most importantly because, just like you said life moves on with or without us whether we like it or not. It is better to embrace it, adapt and learn how to thrive rather than live in the past or future- losing focus of the present. Therefore, that was definitely beautifully said:)
August 26, 2024 at 6:25 pm
You said it best when talking about the difficulty of living in the moment when the moment is filled with distractions. Trying to stay involved with the world around you can often feel like a Sisyphean task. But the absence of time can absolutely force you to live in the moment, especially as a major landmark is coming to a close. This was a great post, thank you.
September 3, 2024 at 2:58 pm
I agree, as kids we would always be outside but now it seems like everyone is so addicted to their phones. I think its important to go outside and explore with the people you love.
August 15, 2024 at 12:21 am
You wrote this so beautifully; it truly opened my eyes to the huge problem we face as a society that I embarrassingly take part in. The statement that spoke to me the most was when you mentioned us growing from creative children to closed-minded adults. This is because, as a preschool teacher, it breaks my heart to think that the lively, inspired children I teach may grow to be as mindless and technology-dependent as some of us tend to be. Thank you so much for speaking on this and helping me, along with others, realize that we need to make a change.
August 15, 2024 at 10:56 pm
Savannah L
What is living in the moment mean?
Being able to enjoy the serenity without the excess feeling of unwanted emotions, that set us back from seeing the world how it truly is. Due to being a functional human being with constant inner and outer problems, we tend to focus on the past rather than the future. Which in the end, it causes us to either live in the present or live in the past. With that being said living in the past creates disruption in our daily lives, by questioning the actions we made and or the things we have said with regret.
For example; it was July 14, 2023, My friends and I all traveled to Horseneck beach for the day. We wanted to stay at the beach to see the sunset before she moved away for good. As the day went on, I mentioned to my friend, “Hey, you know I rather not be on my phone and take so many pictures of today because you won’t be here for tomorrow. I won’t forgive myself if that’s what I did on your last day here.”. My friend said back, “I love that Savannah! Let’s enjoy what we have now because we won’t be in this position to do it again.”. Therefore the remainder of our time together we spent talking about our dreams for the future. Such as going to different schools/colleges, plans after college and having a family in the mere future. As those conversations went on, I truly did not want this day to end. If I could stay here with her and talk about all the things in life I would. But time does not stop and the world keeps spinning. I could talk about how all I want to do is relive that one day over and over, but if I did so it would “eat” me alive each day till I saw her again. So instead of enduring the negative mindset, I had to changed my way of thinking into, “I’ll see you in a few months.?”.
Living in the moment can show one how much you could love or hate today, and still see the good in tomorrow.
September 4, 2024 at 3:21 am
Ethan P
I agree with this, I feel I am always attached to my phone. It is addicting to the point that I can’t even leave my room or the couch. I wish that no one could use their phones just to call 911 and take pictures.
August 16, 2024 at 3:43 am
I agree with this idea. I think often people get stuck in the idea that we can just be stuck in our phones all the time. It is normalized because everything we do nowadays is electronically. For a lot of things, the idea of human interaction has been taken away.
August 27, 2024 at 9:21 am
I agree I have a lot of technology in my house and I feel like i’m constantly using it for something
August 28, 2024 at 8:16 pm
Luke Carreiro
I completely agree with you. These days everyone uses technology more than ever, when we should be talking to each other face to face not through technology.
August 31, 2024 at 2:39 pm
I agree, since many people around seemed to have it hard to interact physically face to face noticing that even extroverts are glued to their phones instead of talking and being engaged in face-to-face interaction. People need to learn to stop and leave their screens to make real connections because online people and social media can only take them so far.
September 3, 2024 at 2:51 pm
I agree, often our generation tends to stay connected to technology rather than in-person interactions.
September 3, 2024 at 8:18 pm
This is a really well written article. I really liked where you hooked in belief.
September 3, 2024 at 10:39 pm
Trey A
I agree, technology whilst being a force of good in some scenarios, like keeping people connected and entertainment, can be horrible for people if not used correctly. It can make you feel isolated and utterly dependent on the medium as for a lot of people it has been their main form of keeping in touch or from just spending a lot of time with their phones making them grow into a sense of dependency on their technological devices that keeps them from being themselves an living in the moment. People are often too caught up or distracted by what is going on inside social media or what someone else is up to they often forget to look inwards and to see what is happening to them as they may miss important moments and lose out on special memories, they could have made. In addition, as stated it is important to start looking around you in the real world and see what is going on and being a part of it, as living in the moment and having real, face to face connections is more than important to a person’s mental wellbeing and can even push them into being a better person and doing more both for others and themselves. As well, the Umass Dartmouth community can definitely benefit from being more so in the moment and experiencing the unique events and times that Umass Dartmouth will have, rather than being inside of the digital world with less stress and anxiety from being disconnected and in the real world.
September 4, 2024 at 3:06 am
I totally understand this and like having meaningful conversations with my friends is something I strive for. I understand that we all get busy and most of us are glued to our phones, but talking to my people is more to life than that device could ever be for me. It helps me stay connected with people when we are apart, but honestly it doesn’t bring us closer together when im right in front of you.
September 4, 2024 at 3:21 am
I agreee with this message of living in the moment specifically when it applys to technology. I always can remember my friend’s mother telling us to get off our phones and go meet people. When we were younger we didn’t like to listen to her but now I have changed towards her perspective. Living in the moment free of technology is better overall for our well being especially socialization. Overall great essay.
September 4, 2024 at 3:34 am
I agree that more and more people are using technology everyday and it’s causing people to care less about face to face conversations.
July 1, 2024 at 7:15 pm
To come up with my belief
When contemplating my beliefs, I find that nothing specific comes to mind. I tend to go along with the crowd, assuming that they are correct while I am mistaken. I often perceive myself as not particularly intelligent, believing that others are smarter than me, and thus I follow their lead, assuming they are always right. Before expressing any thoughts, I pondered the concept of belief and found that it is defined as having faith in the truth. Faith, in turn, is the belief in an unseen world. However, it is often said that seeing is believing, yet simultaneously, not seeing can also be believing. I struggle to comprehend how one can both see and not see simultaneously. It is commonly advised to believe in oneself and have confidence in one’s ability to accomplish anything desired. Although this is what others say, I find it challenging to believe in myself while also avoiding self-doubt. I have faith in what I am capable of at present, but this belief is shared by everyone. While some believe that hard work leads to achievement, I believe that being in the right place at the right time plays a significant role, and luck often factors into success.
What I think is important to me is to be willing to take chances and fully commit. I decided to take a risk by reading the Bible and trying to apply its teachings to my life, as well as believing in Jesus and having faith in Him. I have witnessed many people’s testimonies, including my sister’s, and I have noticed a positive change in her. Not only that, but I can’t pinpoint exactly when, where, how, or at what time this change occurred, but I know that she has been improving. This is the approach I have chosen, to take chances and fully commit. “Even if you are the only one taking a different path, it doesn’t mean it’s the wrong one. So, keep pushing forward and stay strong.”
July 10, 2024 at 12:05 am
I agree that it is important to be willing to take chances and fully commit because I think life is what you make of it, and you don’t want to live life with regrets. I also agree with having a hard time with believing in myself and i also believe that it’s definitely more common than most people think. I love your take on this and totally agree!
August 2, 2024 at 12:33 pm
It’s okay to feel unsure and follow others. Believing in yourself is hard, but taking risks and committing to your choices is crucial. Reading the Bible and having faith in Jesus is a strong step. Stay strong and keep going, even if your path is different.
August 14, 2024 at 7:30 pm
Rose M.
I really appreciate how you talk about struggling in your own beliefs and how you would choose to follow a crowd because it’s in a way easier than trying to prove you understand your own voice to others. And I can relate so strongly to wanting to follow your own path even when it is the path less walked.
September 1, 2024 at 2:23 am
Having something to believe is really important, I once met myself with a similar dillema, that was only solved when I found a resolve to strenghten my belief. I’m glad that you also found something important for you!
September 3, 2024 at 8:28 pm
I fully agree that it is hard to be yourself when in a sea of other people. I remember a past teacher talking about taking intellectual risks, which many people avoid because of fear of being perceived as incorrect or judged. That conversation opened my eyes to the fact that everyone is dealing with taking intellectual risks and that we are all as scared of each other as others are of us.
July 3, 2024 at 2:10 pm
V Briggs – Selective Worrying
Like many, I have spent the majority of my life fretting occasions that have yet to arrive. Countless hours spent predicting what could, or may, go wrong, all revolving around the unknown and unpredictable. It wasn’t until studying my AP World History exam that I was able to change my line of thinking into something more sustainable.
Throughout the month of April, leading up to the early weeks of May, a handful of students and I spent the mass of our effort reviewing for this large exam, which we had been preparing for the entire year. I recall feeling particularly overwhelmed, as though failure was imminent. However, while looking through some of my earlier notes, I remembered learning about a school of thought practiced by the Greeks known as Stoicism. The basic principles of their teachings is to only concern oneself with that which they are able to change.
After doing some reading, I came to the realization that many of the things that I was worrying about were beyond my control. I cannot change what is asked on the exam, nor can I change the date or time of it. The best I can do is study confidently, and calm myself over that which I cannot change. It’s important to practice this, as it removes many, if not all, of the unnecessary stressors in life. The most effective way to do this is to constantly ask oneself – can I change what I am worrying about? If the answer is no, then why worry?
July 8, 2024 at 7:05 pm
The stress of taking AP classes and the anticipation for the exam is extremely tumultuous for students. You put the fact that we are unable to control everything into a good perspective as we enter college. I really enjoyed “ The most effective way to do this is to constantly ask oneself – can I change what I am worrying about? If the answer is no, then why worry?” Great way to remind myself once I become anxious and start to worry. Wonderful statement!
July 20, 2024 at 12:50 pm
I strongly agree with this idea of “if it can’t be changed, then why worry?” I think it’s a great practice to have, especially going into college when there will be plenty of instances where we will be worrying about things like projects or exams, things that can’t be changed. I hope that when I’m stressed in those times, I remember not to worry so much, and just to do the best I can. Great essay!
August 24, 2024 at 9:08 pm
I definitely agree with your statement here because I feel like I go through situations like that on an everyday basis, worrying about something that is out of my control and trying to change it or beat around it when in reality there is not much I can do besides prepare for it whenever it is time. This concept of selective worrying I believe happens to everyone, whether it be school related or even just some plans you don’t want to go to but have to. Very well written!
September 3, 2024 at 5:30 pm
Your worry about your test is very similar to how I feel about the first day of college. I feel like its going to go wrong in some ways. I really like that you mentioned stoicism because I have read a book about it called the Stoic Challenge by William B. Irvine and the ideas in it help me get through things that make me uncomfortable. I hadn’t thought about that book in a while and your post reminded me of it. Thanks for reminding me cause I need it for tomorrow.
July 5, 2024 at 9:56 pm
Devin N
The past is something we can’t change but the future is an unfinished book with us as the authors. I thought I knew what the next chapters of my life would hold. I thought I had it all figured out, like every good piece of literature, my story is going through edits and changes.
Starting my senior year of high school, college wasn’t even an option. I went to a vocational school where I studied plumbing. I wanted to go full time into work then start my own business after a few years. I figured I could save myself from student loans and make a lot of money at a young age. Growing up in a divided home with a single parent, supporting my family was a big thing for me. College seemed too expensive and I didn’t want to bear the weight of loans on my mom. I changed my mind when a family member called asking if I ever considered college, this conversation completely changed my view on my future. Hearing about the benefits from college and the rare opportunity I was in to receive substantial aid I gave college a chance.
Thinking I had everything figured out led to stress and anxiety, always wondering if I did the right thing or if the path I was on was the right for me. That is why I believe taking risks can help us grow as people. Being stuck at a dead end job can lead to mundane cycles, taking the risk to leave and go big breaks that cycle. All the big business owners took that risk, to start something brand new and hope and pray that it pays off in the end. If you don’t take that leap you can never truly grow. College is my risk. I’m currently taking that leap, learning and growing into my soon to be lifestyle of college, breaking the cycle in my head of “I’m going to do XYZ and that is how it’s going to be.” I plan to study in business, a complete change from the plumbing background I have. With some overlaps like being able to run my own plumbing business by having some knowledge in both fields. I am giving myself the opportunity to have multiple career paths and grow.
I believe it is important for everyone to take those risks, to learn something new, to go someplace they’ve never been. Those risks are what make life more enjoyable, they make our stories interesting. With every twist and turn in life makes our own book unique. We don’t know what our futures hold, but we do know they’re still being written. I’m looking ahead to 4 years of college but what does your next chapter look like?
September 2, 2024 at 11:45 pm
Angelique T.
I also went to a vocational school, so I went through a similar experience when it came down to deciding on my college plans. It definitely is a big risk, with loans and commitment in mind, but it can definitely be a risk that pays off. I hope you are able to one day have a very successful business!
July 8, 2024 at 6:59 pm
Rhiannon F
Commonly when you are in childhood you want to be older. You want to look older, dress older, and feel older. Growing up feels so far away when you are looking at what has yet to come. When looking into the future you forget to live in the moment. You think about what you lack, then once you reach those milestones they don’t seem as great as you conjured in your mind. When you reach milestones, you pine for the naivety of childhood. We yearn for simplicity but at the same time, we crave independence.
That’s why it’s beautiful to live in the moment. You are able to see where you are, not where you were, or have yet to be. If we are always living in the past or future we will watch our lives slip by. Maybe that is what it means to grow up? You get beaten and battered with the expectation to just ricochet back. Sometimes we don’t though.
I believe we all go through a period of reminiscing on our pasts. Perhaps we wait by a window looking out for just a few moments to see our past selves. We smile, we laugh and sometimes cry. Then after those few short, painful moments, we finally turn off the light at the window to only wait for another time.
August 12, 2024 at 11:59 pm
Working as a lifeguard during the school year, and especially summer, it’s really common to find myself yearning for the easiness of childhood. The little kids come to the pool for day camp in the summer; just running around, playing mermaids, and having different friends everyday. Their biggest conflict is cleaning their rooms or trying to peel their wet bathing suits off. It’s simple, but seeing them brings the sweet sting of nostalgia to my heart. I wish I could go back to the days of coloring books and sandwiches cut in half. Diagonally, of course.
August 14, 2024 at 12:00 am
It’s so true that we often find ourselves caught between the the past and future, missing out on the present. It is so important and beautiful to cherish the moment and embrace it as it is right now. Thank you for sharing this perspective!!
August 14, 2024 at 3:10 am
I find it so cool how you captured this push-pull wanting to grow up, and then longing for the simplicity of childhood once we get there. It’s definitely true how much of being present gets lost in either what’s ahead or what’s behind us. That’s so powerful, your reflection on what it means to grow up: to pay regard, sometimes not to just bounce back; and that is okay. It’s just so beautiful to live in the moment embracing where we are right now.
September 4, 2024 at 1:47 am
Alyson T
I completely agree with you and I feel the same way. I’ve always wanted to be older and have independence while also wanting to go back to being younger and everything in life being so simple. I have to constantly remind myself that no matter how hard I try, time won’t speed up or slow down. Growing up is so unique because you truly live and learn, and in each stage you have a different outlook on life which is really neat. It’s so easy to get lost in time, but it’s important that we take a second to live in the moment and be present.
July 11, 2024 at 12:42 am
Olivia S
I’ve always been a big believer in “Living in the moment”. Growing up not on a lot of social media, I’ve learned to take in the world around me without needing to capture it other than capturing it in my mind. Now being older, I’ve started to take more pictures. As much as I like to take photos to remember the moment more clearly, I still put my phone away and just let myself be in the moment.
In the last two years of high school; I’ve been on a cruise, seen the Eras Tour, gone to Hilton Head and Savannah, and traveled to Colorado to see family. Each time I took photos, but I still stayed present. The Eras Tour was one of the most magical moments of my life. It wasn’t my first time seeing Taylor Swift in concert, but being that close to her was amazing. And what was even more amazing is that I was one of the many, but few people that got to see her live. Being there, and, yes, taking photos, was one of the most amazing moments. She is someone I look up to and appreciate for her talent and willingness to fight for what she believes in even when she knows it will give her bad publicity. Every moment is worth seeing with your own two eyes rather than through a screen or lens, if you’re fortunate enough. Take advantage of it.
July 22, 2024 at 2:44 pm
I agree with what you were saying especially when you were talking about while you were on your trip you took pictures but you still stayed in the moment. This past school year I have traveled to Spain and I always took pictures for my parents because it was a once in a life time experience that my parents may not be able to have but I stayed present and in the moment. I also agree that people should take advantage of every moment because they may not have the chance to experience it again.
August 14, 2024 at 6:01 pm
I 100% agree with everything! Knowing how to take pictures of something but still try to live in the moment is something I used to struggle with but once you learn it’s something to never take for granted. You went to Colorado and enjoyed being with your family and although I didn’t travel to see family, I had family come see me. It was a blessing to have pictures to capture the memory but also have the memory of having such a good time you don’t even remember taking the photo.
August 31, 2024 at 2:47 pm
I’m able to acknowledge and connect to this cause as a person we all want to capture the moment and have it stored for memory purposes we all have things we find important and want to have something to look back to one day. But as Olivia said even after taking the photo make sure to put down the camera or whatever item and just look and enjoy the moment as it is happening as those are the real memories that happen.
July 11, 2024 at 12:10 pm
Anthony P
I used to care a lot about what others thought of me and that affected the way I used to live. Something that helped me change this belief and that allowed me to live in the moment is the term “Brat Summer”.
The term brat summer was formed after Charlotte Emma Aitchison, a singer-songwriter commonly known as Charli xcx, released her latest album brat. Charli has stated that Brat Summer can be anything you want it to be. Ultimately, it’s about having unabashed fun. Brat Summer has changed me because in previous years, specifically during the summer season, I was heavily focused on what other people thought and was not able to be myself without the constant feeling of being judged. The release of brat has allowed me to be myself without caring what others think. Having a hyperpop album has been a great outlet for me to be able to be myself and have fun. Brat Summer has made me happier and overall, a better person. Some things that have contributed to my Brat Summer are having a cool lunchbox, a new job, and a haircut. Brat Summer is not only a silly saying, but an empowering belief. I have the phrase Brat Summer everywhere from my water bottle to my laptop to promote not letting my peers determine who I am, and deciding my identity for myself. A lot of people struggle with identity and let people determine how their lives go. For anyone else struggling to find their own identity, have your Brat Summer and don’t let others rule your life.
July 22, 2024 at 3:04 am
Oh my gosh I just listened to this album a few days ago!! Someone recommended it to me and I really liked it. In my post I talked about how I went to Scotland this summer, but I didn’t mention that I also went to London. When I was in the subways in London, I actually saw posters for the album. It’s good stuff 🙂
July 31, 2024 at 4:50 am
This is so funny, I love how you did brat summer as an essay topic and actually made it such a great essay LOL can we be friends? My Insta is @kayla.pimentel1
August 7, 2024 at 5:19 pm
I love this so much! I love how you turned a sense of music into a message! Music is definitely one of the best forms of positive light that most people miss! I like how you described the message and how it pertained to you as an individual. I think the way this was worded was perfect! it showed people that there is a deeper meaning to things along with making it enjoyable to read!
August 12, 2024 at 5:54 pm
I absolutely love this! I love how you talked about not letting others rule your life and just being yourself!!
September 3, 2024 at 11:47 pm
I love how you were able to connect a newly released album to the topic of living in the moment. I do feel like making connections with music really allows us to find ourselves and our confidence. Great essay!
July 12, 2024 at 11:56 pm
Anna L
Over the years, especially this one I have learned that living in the moment is one of the most crucial parts of life. One phrase that I live by is; “Everything happens for a reason.” By living in the moment, it allows all of the crucial parts of your life, good or bad, to fall into place.
The end of senior year was extremely tough. I got out of a tough relationship which resulted in the loss of the majority of my friends that I had for the past four years. I was so heartbroken and devastated that it took me weeks to get over, but eventually I did. What helped me the most was living in the moment. I had to stop dwelling on what had happened in the past because that was over. I had to start living day by day and working on what I can do to overcome all of the hardships I was experiencing. If it wasn’t for me living in the moment then I most likely would not have healed at all. This belief changed my outlook on life and how to deal with anything hard that comes my way. I will take the phrase “Living in the Moment” with me wherever I go from now on, throughout my four years in college all the way until I have reached all of my goals in live and even still I can guarantee that I will still be living by it. This lifestyle may not work for everybody, but as for myself, I am so grateful that it did.
August 5, 2024 at 10:53 pm
A great phrase to live by I find myself coming back and thinking about this as well. Im sorry to hear about your struggles you overcame. The end of my senior year was super difficult aswell for different reasons granted but I feel comfort in the fact that it must of happened for a reason, making me more prepared and ready. great writing, loved to read.
August 15, 2024 at 12:50 am
I love this I find this very motivating for myself to not sit and dwell on certain situations that don’t benefit me anymore. I’m so happy that you overcame this hardship and started living for yourself.
August 31, 2024 at 3:03 pm
A great way of thinking and living to the name. As it is having a group of friends especially if they have known each other for a long time, I can agree that having to move on from the pain of losing them cause they chose to follow the other person is truly one of the greatest pains to feel. But getting up and instead of always looking back to what had happened then, can feel like a weight on your shoulder had been lifted. Keep moving forward and living to the phrase “Living in the Moment”, is a great way to describe it.
July 16, 2024 at 2:05 pm
Something I was recently faced with and forced to think about was “living in the moment”. It is something we always said growing up, but did we always listen to our own advice?
I always thought I was, up until March of 2024 where I found myself in the hospital for three months, diagnosed with a chronic illness. We had no ability to tell what the next day was going to bring, one second I felt fine, the next I was unable to swallow my own secretions and had doctors surrounding my bed wondering where they went wrong. I used this time to reflect on all I did in my life. When I thought I was living in the moment, I was constantly stressing about the small things that haven’t even happened yet, such as that math test I need to pass. Instead of living in the moment and studying to set myself up for success, I was dragging myself down by stressing about the future, and hurting my future self. Waking up in the hospital every morning I taught myself the true meaning of “living in the moment”, I told myself I need to live today like it is my last, and soak up all of the small things that truly make each day worth living.
I used to think “living in the moment” was a reason to make irrational decisions, that may be regretted down the line, but now I see it as something we should think before getting out of bed in the morning, a reminder to ourselves that we can’t predict our futures and need to be grateful for all of the small things.
August 27, 2024 at 6:17 pm
I completely agree! Living in the moment does not mean make bad choices but rather being spontaneous and living life to the fullest. Its being happy with your true self.
July 18, 2024 at 10:32 pm
Zachary P
To understand how important it is to live in the moment could change your future forever, dwelling on the past or your thoughts and imagining what could be while not making any progress intoxicates your perspective of everything and everyone around you. I believe that living in the moment is a necessity to being a happy person and having an overall better life.
For the past year of my life up until now this belief fully applied to me and it was so bad that I became completely unaware of how life altering it would be. At the end of last summer I started my gap year which I decided was best for me to make advancements in other areas of my life like getting a job to save up more money to buy a car or finally getting my license. After making those plans I started to make excuses and reasons in my head for why I haven’t already achieved these tiny goals for someone my age. I thought to myself that there was all the time in the world to get these tasks done because a year of time was more than enough for everything I wanted to get done and no rush was needed. These detrimental decisions led me to sit in my room almost every single day of that gap year with nothing to do but think of the mistakes I already have made in the past, and the future I wanted but wasn’t getting any closer to. Not only did I waste that time that I preserved for self growth but I also severed just about every friendship and a three year relationship with my girlfriend. Looking back I can see I caused all of it to happen by letting myself be absorbed by all my bad thoughts, feelings, and all my insecurities and letting it control how I felt over my true emotions. I was a distressing person to be around and of course the closest person to me could see that and wanted to leave, and it took that just for me to see what I let myself transform into.
Living in the moment is a necessity to being a happy person and having an overall better life because you can never get to the future you want without making any progress in the present. I also intend for anyone reading this to understand, agree, and believe my belief through what I’ve stated. But of course even if you don’t share this belief with me it is crucial to still listen and negotiate with yourself or another person through what I’ve said and ponder because I’d never want someone to possibly mutate into something I never want to experience again.
The smallest achievements you make or do not make in your present can impact your future more than you know. If you’re not conquering the steps you have in front of you, how will you get to the top of the staircase you dream about everyday?
July 20, 2024 at 9:09 pm
I completely agree with everything that you said. Living in the moment can make you so much happier than you already are and, it really is life-altering when you finally lean into it and just be present in the moment.
July 20, 2024 at 12:24 pm
Originality is something that I’ve been thinking about frequently, and something that means a lot to me. For example, am I doing something because it’s something I want to do, or because everyone else is doing it too? This summer, I saw “Inside Out 2”. For me, this sequel didn’t impact me as much as “Inside Out” because the first was something original, it was a new idea. With the sequel, there was a general idea of what may happen with the characters we already know, and the new characters being introduced. Due to that, I don’t plan to rewatch the movie as much as I rewatched the first one. While watching the movie, and afterwards, I found myself comparing this film to its predecessor. While I enjoyed seeing the return of these characters, I couldn’t stop comparing how they are in “Inside Out 2” to how they were in the first movie. This really held me back from fully enjoying the movie and the messages it had to offer. I think similarly about college. When you find yourself looking into the past, it holds you back from enjoying the present, and everything you can learn from it. Since trying to live more in the moment, I’ve realized that it doesn’t matter who I was in high school or if I’m nervous about the next four years; everyone is. What matters is that I’m true to myself and doing what I want to do because I want to do it.
August 8, 2024 at 10:42 pm
I completely agree and understand your point. Originality, and staying to yourself are crucial. Just like how the first movie of “inside out” felt fresh while the sequel didn’t have the same impact, living in the moment, helps you appreciate your own journey. in college, focusing on what you want rather than comparing yourself to others is key to finding fulfillment.
July 20, 2024 at 9:03 pm
Preston A
Everyone’s sage advice to someone younger than them is always “Live in the moment” or a variation of the saying, I would always roll my eyes at the people telling me this thinking that I already was living in that moment so I didn’t have to change anything about what I was already doing. Looking back at those moments now, I do realize what they mean by living in the moment. All we can do now is remember the times that we shared with our friends, or the late nights spent being around everyone that we knew all in one place. At the start of my senior year of high school, I looked back on everything that I had done in the last 3 years there and realized that I wanted to do more, and I wanted to branch out and talk to new people and step out of my comfort zone a lot more than I had previously. Recounting all the memories I made this year, and the people I met, I don’t regret anything that I did, and I wouldn’t do it any differently than I lived it. It’s easy to get caught up in our phones which suck us away from the present moment. And I found that the less time I was on my phone trying to document every single moment, I ended up having more fun than trying to get videos or pictures of everything that was around me and just taking it all in. Living in the moment is not always easy. With time, it became more natural and made this one of the best years I’ve had in my life. I believe that embracing the present and taking that chance can allow everyone to live more fully and experience more joy.
July 22, 2024 at 3:00 am
Sophia Silva-Agius
This isn’t really a post about what I believe living in the moment is all about, it’s more of a post about I moment I lived in over the summer, lol!
I’m slightly Scottish, and I visited Scotland for the first time this summer. Two moments of the trip stood out as truly life-changing, and I don’t know which was more so. One of them happened in Stirling, AKA the gateway to the highlands. We took a day trip there to see Stirling castle, and nothing could have prepared me for the way I felt as I stood there, at that perfectly situated hilltop castle. I looked out at the view, and cried. Through my tears I saw rolling hills covered in green trees and bushes. Clouds sailed by overhead, shining patches of warm light onto the land below. In the distance on a small hill, I could see the William Wallace memorial tower. In that moment, I felt like no force on earth could tear me away from where I stood. I was home. The other moment happened at a Tesco. A Tesco is a kind of supermarket we don’t have here in the USA. At Tesco, I bought a can of the national beverage of Scotland, which is a soda called Irn Bru. I couldn’t describe the taste to you if my life depended on it. There I was, standing just outside the Tesco, Irn Bru in hand. As the sun set, I also felt at home. The trip is over, but I’ll think about it forever. I’ll always have a little voice inside me begging to go back, even if it’s just for a can of Irn Bru.
July 22, 2024 at 2:36 pm
Emiyah S
Growing up I have believed in living in the moment because a lot of things that happen in your life can be a once in a lifetime experience. I did not have my first phone until I was 13 years old, and I feel that has helped me be able to live in the moment of growing up. Now that I am older and when I go out with my friends sometimes, we do find ourselves to be on our phones while we are together but when we are not on our phones we have a wonderful time. When my friend group is together, we love to take pictures, videos, and make tik toks so that we remember the moment. When we are having a fun time while hanging out, we do tend to forget to even take pictures or videos for our memories.
Senior year was the year that I chose to live in the moment. Since I was five years old, I have swum competitively, and swimming took up most of my schedule up until senior year. I swam every day including weekends, which did not allow me to really have a social life outside of school. Swimming every day and not having a social life was a mental battle in my years of attending high school. When senior year approached, I made a big decision to stop swimming club and only swim for my high school. Making this decision meant that I was going to be able to hang out with my friends more often and do more things outside of school. Not swimming club my senior year allowed me to live in the moment and get to experience things like our school’s first homecoming dance or attending football and basketball games to support my friends. I will always be grateful for the memories that I was able to create senior year, not swimming for club made me realize that there is so much more living of life that I needed to do instead of swimming all the time.
July 29, 2024 at 7:00 pm
Mikayla R-
I agree with you. A lot of the time we tend to let technology get in the way of making important memories. I also think it is super important to not let hobbies get in the way of everyday life because even though we may not realize it, these things can consume all of our time and the present moment gets taken for granted.
July 22, 2024 at 2:40 pm
Over the course of my life, I have learned how important it is to live in the moment. Living in the moment is a phrase that we always heard growing up, but did we ever actually do it?
This past month was when I really realized how important it was to live in the moment. I just recently returned from a vacation in Europe, and during my time there was when I realized that taking the time to absorb the sites was more important then worrying about making it to the next spot in time. At the first couple of sites, I would take pictures and then be ready to move on. However, as time when on through the trip I realized that I should take the time to really look at and appreciate everything around me. I’ve also come to realize that a lot of what I worried about were things that as a kid I couldn’t even control. That’s why living in the moment is an amazing thing because you can truly see where you are, not where you’re going to be.
Living in the moment is extremely necessary to be happy because your future is determined by what you do in the present. You will never get to the future if you don’t progress in and live in the present moment.
The phrase living in the moment is a great reminder to appreciate all of the little things in live and to not take anything for granted.
July 26, 2024 at 3:26 am
Maelen A
I agree with you. I think that it’s easy for people to not appreciate the moment as its happening, and then later regret it. I don’t think it’s done purposely, but I do believe that technology can get in the way of living in the moment. Because we can get so attached to our phones it is likely to distract us from the present. I don’t fully blame technology, but it is a factor. Sometimes it can just be our own moods/ attitudes that can make us be unappreciative.
July 23, 2024 at 9:40 pm
Imani. P~
After attending many funerals at a young age and realizing that life is fickle and ever-changing; I have come to strongly believe in living in the moment. The unpredictability of life makes it impossible to know the next move you will make, so living in the now removes the stress of worrying about your next step. Our fragile existence means tomorrow is not promised and life can end for any number of reasons; enjoy the present time that is given to you because it could be your last.
Life is disorienting and imperfect given that there are a lot of gray areas, and not much stability and it is difficult to find meaning within it because everything changes at the flip of a coin or the drop of a hat. Living in the moment is an appreciation of the memories created and stability within the present.
Being present makes the person you are with at the moment feel appreciated and makes the experience more delightful for you both. Enjoying the now allows you to cherish the past and look forward to the future. You acknowledge your past and the lessons you’ve learned along the way that led to said present and you become aware of the possibilities to come and your potential future.
My belief in living in the moment stems from worrying and overthinking too much, and now I am able to enjoy each day without being overwhelmed by anxiety; Living life to the fullest.
July 24, 2024 at 11:56 pm
Samuel S – I didn’t know exactly where to post this because it touches upon other blog post ideas , however I think it fits here the best. Enjoy!
I believe people should love themselves for who they are, and ease their worry about others’ opinions of them. My belief grew over many years, and it took me a long journey to realize this. I grew up in Cohasset, MA. It’s a nice quaint town, however, because of this I never had the chance to make new friends. I knew everyone that went to my high-school; Every teacher, student, and janitor. Because I knew everyone personally I believed that I had to please everyone around me. I shaped my personality to whoever I was talking to. I always worried about everyone’s opinion of me. This all changed the end of my junior year during a Thursday lunch. During lunch juniors and seniors are allowed to eat outside in the courtyard. On a breezy day with the summer air rolling quickly in, I followed some of my senior friends outside to eat. That lunch changed me forever when I met their friends. They were laughing and dancing to the most unique music I think I will ever hear, but they were having fun. They didn’t care about how the other people in the courtyard would see them or if they laughed. That day I realized that it doesn’t matter how people see you, because that was the first time in a long time that I laughed, I really laughed. That’s when I thought to myself, it doesn’t matter what others think of me because they probably think the exact same way and stop themselves from doing things that they love. I think this belief is not only life-changing for me, but it could be for everyone. I truly believe that not worrying about others thinking you are weird, or not cool is what brings so much happiness. If others adopt this idea I think the Umass Dartmouth community and the world could become a much more welcoming place. So next time you worry about others thinking that you’re weird, remember that most likely that person is also worried about how others view them. Everyone is different in their own unique way and that’s ok. Love yourself.
August 22, 2024 at 1:31 pm
Jewelianna R
Living in the moment is a great way to think of life. You can put your else out there and enjoy it. You can make memories that you won’t forget. Living in the moment isn’t about having to take risk or doing what you may regret. It’s about doing what makes you excited and do what you think about in the moment. There has been time where I thought that I couldn’t be myself around my friends or family so I wouldn’t take the time to do the things I like todo today.
I have learned that not everything is for everyone. Living in the moment is that you embrace what you do, say, or emotionally do. So when I go to Umassd I will have to say my good bye to my family and my friends and I may cry and I’ll hug them for an extended amount of time. On my first day I will be nervous and I will get over it and make new friends and be my self around everyone.
Living in the moment is all about be excepting of each moment and noticing surroundings because while living in the moment you caught up with stressful and upsetting thoughts. You would have to pay more attention to your more present experiences.in this way of living you can improve the quality of your life and appreciate what’s happening around you. When you live in the moment you are fully present and aware the emotions and thoughts that you have right now. This is a new area to grow and make new memories by living in the moment.
July 28, 2024 at 1:34 am
Brianna S
Living in the moment is that feeling where we learn to appreciate the little things that we later learn won’t be with us forever . I believe that if you know how to live in the moment you’ve learned how special the people around us are, or how important the past has now become .
Living in the moment is looking out the window on your family’s road trip to Vermont, or hugging that person extra tight incase you never see them again. We never really know what the future holds for us so we have to appreciate everything that we hold close to our hearts .
Now that we have all grown up and are opening up a new chapter, “home away from home” we no longer have what we considered our normal. We’ll have new friends even though we’re gonna miss the old ones, we’re gonna have new rooms that come along with roommates that are gonna be on this ride with us .
So for the last month of summer before we leave the nest and have our worlds turned upside down we have to make everyday count . Spending time with your loved ones, taking in those beach days with friends and remembering growing up can be scary, but it means we are progressing through our lives to become successful young adults. This is our first time living so we’re gonna make mistakes or forget to live in the moment, but we are all human and we are supposed to make mistakes, it’s all part of living .
So cherish the lives we live because soon enough we’re all gonna live different ones.
August 9, 2024 at 2:12 am
I really love what you said about looking out the car window or hugging someone extra tight because you might not see them for a long time or even ever again. Honestly no one knows what the future holds and if you don’t take advantage of those moments because you’re not living in the moment, you make come to regret it later in life and life is better without regrets.
July 28, 2024 at 7:18 pm
Kamryn F.
A concept that has completely altered my thinking is “If they want to, let them.” By this, I simply mean that if someone wants to disrespect you in any way, they will find a way to; regardless of how much effort you put in to try to stop them. I adopted this mindset roughly a year ago when I got cheated on after three long, hard years of trying so hard to change him and stop him from lusting over other women. Throughout those years, I gave my all to try to fix him, and in turn, our relationship. On our prom night; a month before the breakup, I met his “girl best friend” and from that moment, I knew it was over. The way he looked at her and talked to her was all too obvious. Right then I decided not to accuse ( in case I was being dramatic), but rather to let him decide the fate of our future, and so he did. The day I found out he cheated on me, that was it, I broke up with him, and ended the 3-year streak of being belittled and torn down.
The concept of “if they want to, let them” has saved me from countless mental battles, aside from what I just spoke of. It has also avoided several arguments between my old friends and me, as it reassured me that my effort was not always as necessary as I’d believed. Overall, some ways that this mindset has helped me include promoting my emotional resilience, providing clarity in my relationships, and encouraging my self-respect and therefore, growth. Without this way of thinking, I would not be as emotionally intelligent and mature as I am today. I constantly encourage my family, friends, and peers to adopt this concept into their daily lives to spare them troubles that may come their way.
July 31, 2024 at 4:28 am
I’m so sorry this happened to you. You sound like such a strong person and I really admire your work. I’m proud of you for how much you’ve grown. The guy who did that to you really threw away a lottery ticket and now you’re onto better things.
I also didn’t even realize this until after I finished reading but I actually have you on Snapchat LOL. I hope we can be friends because you seem like such a deep and raw person!
August 26, 2024 at 10:36 pm
You’re so sweet, thank you so so much I really hope we get closer because I love how understanding you seem and I appreciate it a lot!!
August 1, 2024 at 2:18 am
You ate😻😻😻
July 29, 2024 at 6:55 pm
Mikayla R-
Living in the moment is a philosophy in which a person can forget about their past and the unpredictability that the future holds. Growing up I was always taught to live for the now because one day those moments would just become memories. In my opinion time is the most valuable thing to have and it should be enjoyed day by day. Tomorrow is not promised and if you live your life based on yesterday’s imperfections, are you even living at all? The purpose of life is to make mistakes and become a more authentic version of yourself. Many stressors in my life are caused by living in the past so instead of concentrating on those things, I believe it is more beneficial to find peace within each new day. A big fear I have is losing control, but by living in the present I have full control which puts my mind at ease. Taking charge of the moments I make helps me relieve all of my burdens.
I started truly living in the moment this past year. Senior year went by very fast and it made me realize that I wasn’t taking the time to still be a kid. I was constantly in the house studying or working which made me miss out on all of the fun that comes along with the last year of highschool. I told myself that I would enjoy my time this summer by creating memorable experiences and that’s what I did. I think it is important to not take the time you have for granted because it goes by with the blink of an eye. I know that many people can relate to this feeling and because of that, we should all stop and take in the experience of today and forget about the burdens of yesterday.
August 2, 2024 at 7:17 pm
I fully agree with all you said, especially how I as well missed out on many enjoyable things because school consumed so much of my life. It’s hard to balance both school and your life outside of it. But it is possible to do both so that life can be filled with incredible memories and amazing experiences. I wish that I had set more time aside to create those unforgettable memories but most of the time I was just sitting at home stressing over every class. Thank you for reminding me not to take the time we have currently for granted, such an important thing everyone should keep in mind!
August 14, 2024 at 9:13 pm
“I believe it is more beneficial to find peace within each new day” is fantastic. That is so inspiring, and I agree. The balance of school and a social life can be very overwhelming sometimes. Sometimes, we forget to find peace or even take the time to ensure we’re okay. We aren’t sure what each day will bring, so living in the moment is essential; this was such a great read, Great job!
July 30, 2024 at 2:48 am
Tucker M
Saying yes to everything
I believe in saying yes to everything. Saying yes to everything will drag you out of your comfort zone, but it will give you so many unique experiences, which will allow you to grow as a person. I developed this philosophy because of one single decision I made in June of 2023.
I was sitting in class when my phone vibrated. It was an email from the caption head of the front ensemble from the 7th regiment, a DCI corps. He introduced himself as Henry and then asked me if I was interested in playing timpani for the 7th Regiment over summer break. A combination of self doubt from getting cut from another corps, the spartans, that I had tried out for, and having spent the last four months picturing my summer as me waking up late and lounging around all day made me hesitant, but I decided that it was worth looking into. I responded to Henry by asking him where they were based out of, and where we’d be practicing. He told me Connecticut.
I thought it would be harder to convince my mom to drive me down to Connecticut, but she was instantly on board with me trying it out, so the decision was completely up to me. I knew I loved playing music, but also was afraid because I had never spent an entire summer away from my home and family before, and I would be with complete strangers for an entire summer at 7th regiment. I thought for a few minutes and sent my answer:
“Yes.”
Henry told me that the next weekend was a practice weekend, and I should show up to try out and meet the rest of the front ensemble. The 7th regiment was housed at a school about a two hour drive from my house. My mom and I drove around the campus of the school aimlessly while looking for a spot to check in when we spotted a group of seven kids. We pulled over and I got out and started talking to them and found out that they were the other members of the front ensemble. I got my bags out of the car and said goodbye to my mom and joined my new friends.
When I was told I was given a contract, and would be touring with the 7th Regiment I couldn’t stop myself from smiling. Any anxiety and self doubt I had about myself was instantly swept away, and the self pride and happiness I felt from achieving such a thing was indescribable. I went home and only had to make one more decision. Would I sign the contract?
Yes.
I knew that this activity wouldn’t be easy, and that I would have to push myself day after day, but I felt that this would lead me to be a better musician after it was done, but I underestimated just how impactful this experience would be for me. When tour started it was hard, getting up at 6:30 every morning, playing non stop until 10, cooking under the sun, moving heavy instruments absurdly long distances. There were times where it wore us down, but we would always push through. I look back on my experience now and think about how those seven people I first met six months ago as strangers have now become my family. We laughed together, cried together, and became better people together. Drum corps has made me a person I know I will always be proud of, given me the ability to work with and become close friends with anyone, and has improved my own self discipline and self pride to a level I could have never imagined. It has given me my closets friends, and a new home. And I would have never found this community if I had never said YES
August 1, 2024 at 11:25 am
I agree with your philosophy that everyone should say yes (obviously in certain circumstances). I also could relate a lot with the feelings you had while trying to make a decision. This was really ell written and I liked it.
July 30, 2024 at 6:44 am
Juvens L
It was my last High School year. It has me questioning myself about what I really want to do for college. It had me still worrying because I wasn’t really ready for College, I wasn’t really feeling confident about it but throughout the month I figured out what I actually wanted to do. Mostly I was always into the Euturpener business. I always think about how I can start running a business. and what would I want to do for my own business? and would I love my own business doing it everyday?
I decided to start a clothing business because I was also mostly into fashion clothes and loved dressing really well in my own style and I love designing, creating my own ideas of logos, I always learn new things from starting it and some couple of mistakes and lessons from this present journey moment. I always keep in mind “it doesn’t come overnight but it will slowly come some day” the more I started working on my clothing business everyday in the present moment the more good progress i was making starting to show how far I got and now that I know what I want to do. But from all this is not only important for me but for others, whatever you question for yourself you will find the answer to what you want to do in life by putting things your hobbies that you love together. and it becomes a goal. Always live in the moment and tell yourself everyday I will succeed in whatever goal you have. Just keep going and never be discouraged, just keep trying in the present moment and good progress will work out.
July 31, 2024 at 5:14 pm
Kathryn L.
You can’t go back and change the past, you can’t jump into the future to see what is going to happen, so why take the time to try. There is no other way to live your life other than to be living in the moment. If I have learned anything in these last few years, I have learned that you never know what is going to happen so make the most of what you can. For as long as I can remember growing up, me and my dad have never had the best relationship. My mom always said it was because we were too similar, so we bounced off of each other and brought out things in each other that were both good and bad. Holding onto the happy memories like fishing and building treehouses in the back yard, is what helped me get through losing him.
It was extremely hard not having him in my life anymore but the hardest part about it was trying to not dwell on the bad times. I felt myself thinking about all the things that I could have done differently in the past, but that took such a turn on my day-to-day life. It was putting me in a bad spot both mentally and physically. Not dwelling on the past and not questioning what this was going to do to my future made all of the pain and hurt slowly lift off of my shoulders. Not only me and my situation but so many others can benefit from living in the moment. Why dwell on things you can’t change, while you could be focusing on how to improve your day-to-day life.
July 31, 2024 at 5:27 pm
Having just graduated high school, I’m currently at a massive stepping off point in my life where I’m given more freedom and responsibility than ever before, and it’s up to me how to use it to shape my future. Now that every single one of my schooling days is under my belt, I’ve realized that so many of the challenges I’ve had to overcome over the years were the cause of one single recurring threat: Time. After twelve years of deadlines, social pressure, personal growth, and other forms of stress, I’ve come to realize that time is the single most ruthless and persistent enemy in the universe that will forever plague every single person in it.
One thing that really hit me like a truck in these past few years was that time began to pass infinitely faster as I got older. I sort of had an understanding of how your childhood feels a lot longer than your teenhood because much more is changing in that time, but when I actually started feeling it I didn’t expect it to hit me the way it did. In middle school, I had my fair share of problems in terms of my attitude or social life, and I assumed that by the time I graduate high school they’d sort of work themselves out; I assumed I’d naturally evolve a lot during that time. There were a lot of experiences I wanted to get out of school before it was over that I hadn’t yet gotten the chance to, and I assumed they would all arrive at my doorstep in high school. I was only halfway done with school, what did I have to worry about? Yet here I am, six years feeling like six months later, still the same scared kid I was when I was twelve, regretting a lot of the choices I made. The difference is that I now understand the unfair way in which time works. I realize that my college years will go by in the blink of an eye, and I’ll come out of it the same child I am today. I realize that time stops for no one, and that I can’t let my responsibilities pile up thinking they’ll sort themselves out at some point. I realize that I can’t sit around and wait for a day that may possibly never come, because before I know it another six years will have passed.
As little as I think I’ve changed as a person in the past few years, I’m trying to go into college with a different perspective than I did going into high school. I struggle a lot with looking too far into the future; Sometimes I’ll be unhappy with the present and wish to skip ahead to a future where it’s better, and sometimes I’ll be so happy with the present that I worry about a future where it’s worse. Either way, I need to learn to live in the moment and enjoy everything I currently have, without letting it be spoiled by some hypothetical future scenario. Four years from now, I may think back on this and realize that I’ve completely failed to do so, but right now I plan on living every minute of college in the present, and if I’m able to accomplish this then maybe time won’t feel like the terrifying monster under my bed that it is right now.
July 31, 2024 at 7:21 pm
Alvin T
Every year when September comes around from the corner of our short summer break, the National Football League begins. Thirty two football teams play for eighteen weeks for a chance to make the playoffs and to potentially grasp the Lombardi Trophy.
After a long week of school, Monday through Friday, usually skipping the awful Thursday night football games, I can finally sit down and enjoy a Sunday’s worth of football. Whether it was Tyreek Hill scoring forty points the first week of fantasy football, or Mac Jones throwing three interceptions in one game, or even hitting a five leg parlay, the game of football is too unpredictable to figure out what will ever happen next.
Every Sunday, looking at the squadron of guys I half assembled with the help of the auto draft, in fantasy football, I saw that I had beaten my opponent by a mere fifty points week one. Having full confidence in my team knowing that I will be winning this league, and I knew that I was not doing whatever the dare was for being last place my friends and I thought of.
In short terms, Yes, I did win the championship, and a couple bucks too. The NFL is too unpredictable to know what happens next, and for that reason is why I grew to love the game of football. For those eighteen weeks of the NFL season, every Sunday, I simply put everything aside, sat down, relaxed, and just enjoyed the moment.
July 31, 2024 at 11:12 pm
Ethan P
The field was set and lined with flags, the goals were in place, the lights were bright, the stands were packed. This was the game that would conclude my soccer career as a goalkeeper. Both of the teams are in position and the referee blows his whistle, the game has begun. The opponent has the first play and everyone’s energy is high, it was senior night. We have worked all season as a team and ensured that this game would be our best. We were living in the moment.
The rival team began to work their way up the field, inching closer toward my goal and I am in position ready to defend. The striker shot the ball as I dive, the score remained 0-0. I punt the ball into midfield as my teammates scan the field, they then drive the ball towards the opponents net. I see my teammate score from the other side of the field. One after the next, the goals hit the back of the rivals net. As I am defending all shots that are taken towards our goal. The score is now 6-0 when the referee calls the final whistle.
Everyone in the crowd cheers for the victory and the team runs together, in this moment we knew that we had ended the season with a win. I believe that living in the moment is the most cricutal way to enjoy life. Other than always worrying about what is next, living in the present will allow us to cherish these experiences and hold them as memories.
One of my favorite quotes shows the true meaning of living in the moment. “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” -Ferris Bueller.
August 1, 2024 at 1:19 am
Harry W.
There are a few ‘rules’ I follow in life. One of them is to try and live in the moment. You can’t let the past always affect what’s going on in the present. There are plenty of things you should focus on in the current moment, rather than focusing on the past. It’s called the past for a reason. Try new things rather than just always sticking with the old. Try to get out of your comfort zone. Experience something new. If a good opportunity presents itself, go for it. Live your life to the fullest, and focus on the now. Not the past. Not the future. Only the current time. Live in the moment.
August 1, 2024 at 3:12 am
Jmacfeat – engineering
My senior year I transferred from a small town in South Dakota to Connecticut, I immediately had to fight for a starting spot on my football team and earned it quickly, I racked together some offers and had a amazing senior year all together meeting some amazing people and my amazing girlfriend, I recently went on a 3 week trip to Tennessee Alabama, and Florida with my two best friends, so I’d say I believe I’m living in the moment. This year I have lived more then my entire life. currently my parents have been absolutely grilling me with worries on how I’m going to pay for 4 years at Dartmouth, I keep telling them let’s take it a step at a time, let’s role with the punches. Let’s just get this first semester paid. But the worries continue and continue. I got the text 25 minutes ago that first semester is paid for, and lord I couldn’t be more estatic when I saw that text from “mama💙” telling me the amazing news. I now get to keep currently living in the moment about to go to a college I’ve fallen in love with before even getting to go to a class, I get to live in the moment with my boys on the football team as we look to go 3 peat! I know I’m living in the moment right now. And I cannot be more excited to live in the moment for the next four years at Dartmouth!
August 1, 2024 at 4:02 am
Vanessa S-
One belief that has stuck with me ever since I was little was the idea of if you dream it, you can do it. Growing up, I viewed dreams as a distant aspiration thing to fantasize. However, as I got older, I would imagine different dreams and aspirations for me to achieve. That was achievable, like how I was able to imagine myself getting one step closer to the medical field. But I saw my dream and I made the decision to work for it and go for it. I worked extremely hard during my years in high school to become a medical assistant so I could get into a field of work that I am highly interested in just so that I could get closer to capturing my dreams. I can now learn from all the mentors and doctors that have taught me many things as a medical assistant. Getting one step closer to big dreams that I have yet to achieve. This experience taught me that dreams are not just thoughts floating in your head when you are in your subconscious mind but potential realities in the working. I feel as dreams always seem like this huge, big accomplishment that seems so far but in truth they are somewhat always achievable if you put your mind too. There are some dreams that are just fantasies like unicorns and rainbows that are just some fantasies that live in our head but the concrete ones that you can see yourself in are the ones that you should take with full grasp. That is why when entering college this belief will be more relevant than ever. Since it represents a new chapter in my life full of different opportunities to dream big and pursue my dreams with endurance. To never be afraid and say “Oh it’s just a dream it will never happen” since you can never know unless you put your mind to it. I am fully committed to turning my dreams into great achievements. Looking into this belief I have seen that dreaming is like the first step but taking action and control over wanting those dreams to be reality are in your own control. You can also be whomever you want to be. Your highest self is in your brain, it is just all up to you.
August 1, 2024 at 6:28 am
Andy W
Many people have different opinions on what it means to actually live in the moment. For some its to ignore the past and future, then some others think its just to be able to be fully aware of the current thoughts and emotions you have. Though for me there is a requirement that needs to be fulfilled in order to be even considered living.
The ability to have fun is something I consider to be essential in life. While some of this might sound morbid, I fully believe that if you are unable to have fun, then you aren’t living. This is the conclusion I had come to after the loss of a friend. Since at that time by having fun, it helped me focus more on the present than focusing on my friend. Later on I had gotten over the loss, but my requirement stayed as I put more thought into it. As when I wasn’t having fun, my life felt extremely monotonous. I felt like a puppet on strings or something like a cog in a machine, doing what was needed to be done, after that I just sat or laid down and started to think on what I could or should be doing. It was only after a while of doing this I thought, “This is not how I want to live my life”. As in that moment of my life, I was alive but I wasn’t living.
I finally started living life again by taking a few hobbies like stitching and drawing, even took a try at baking. I went out with friends more often, and at the time of writing this one even took me out to eat recently. I enjoyed every moment of doing all of these, I didn’t have to focus on past or future, just focus on finding joy in the simple things in the stuff I’m doing now.
So after making you read all of this, I want you to ask yourself, “Am I spending life or living life?”
August 3, 2024 at 3:02 pm
Great question Andy, and I loved your take on this common phrase. Makes me consider different meanings and perspectives.
August 1, 2024 at 10:25 pm
Kiara A.
The phrase “living in the moment” is often overlooked by many. But when I face this expression, I tend to reflect on the many years that slipped away unknowingly. With a powerful message such as this, I believe individuals should begin navigating this statement’s genuine meaning.
During my first year of high school, I found myself desiring the future in a way many young individuals do. To be “grown” was a belief that excited me. I am certain everyone is guilty of this view, even at a youthful age. I seemed so infatuated with what was ahead that I forgot my surroundings and where I stood. At the time, I lived during a moment I now wish I could return to. “High school flies by,” many voices taunted me during numerous periods of my early years, which I brushed off my shoulders and never revisited the thought of how fast it passed. I was then placed in the position sometime later, delivering that message to those in the same shoes I once wore. Unknowingly, I took advantage of spans I could never get back.
With the countless unforgettable memories made during high school, I now revisit those moments often, wishing I could reverse time. “Living in the moment” was never in my scope of thinking until the most memorable moments of living were stored in the back of my mind, growing dust slowly. From my current standpoint, I have come to the realization that those moments in my life have shaped who I am today. Instead of dwelling on the past, I now have the mindset of finding the good in every day and have encountered myself “living in the moment” and enjoying all the small details of life and what’s to come.
August 2, 2024 at 2:03 pm
I think of times that I wasn’t living in the moment when taking this prompt in. For me, there is one state of mind that I find myself in frequently when I would rather be living in the moment. I am a 3-sport athlete, competing in cross country, indoor and outdoor track. I find myself in a recurrent state of mind during competition. This feeling or way or thinking that I sometimes experience slows me down, makes me feel worse, and restricts me from making improvements. These feelings and thoughts include worrying about my next race, dreading future races, being scared that I may slow down because I started my race too fast, or just not thinking I can improve. I even have occasional thoughts of comparing my past self to myself now and to others, of course. These feelings have most likely single handedly taken personal records from me. I hope to overcome these worries and take the time to “live in the moment”. If I put forth my full effort in the present, I’m sure I can succeed and improve. I hope as I start competition in college, I can alter my mindset during competition to rid myself of these thoughts. I hope that many of you will do the same and not just during competitions, but during any stressful situations. The campus has the potential of being a better community if we all think about this and try our best to live every moment and not cower at every future or past moment.
August 3, 2024 at 3:00 pm
As an athlete as well, I completely agree with you. I am also trying to change my mindset as I enter preseason. Hopefully I’m prepared lol.
September 2, 2024 at 1:07 pm
I completely agree coming from a another athlete time is defiantly important and I always worry about the same things for my sport football I feel as if time plays a major role in how we improve and get better and it seems as time just keeps flying by and there is no time to get better. All you can do is try to live in the moment and enjoy what your doing in the sport and realize that naturally doing something a lot you get better each time and you learn and can use that time to your advantage.
August 2, 2024 at 4:30 pm
Jessica N.
Something that I question often is why us as individuals don’t tend to live in the moment more often. However, it’s much easier said than done. Oftentimes I sit and wonder to myself, what am I doing with my life? There’s not a day that goes by where I don’t worry about something whether it’s from my past, or something that I have detrimental fear over in the near future. I’m a person who tends to overthink and stress over every little situation, even the ones I have no control over. I let my thoughts consume me to the point where it’s become such a bad habit.
As the oldest daughter of an Asian immigrant household, expectations are held extremely high. The constant pressure of having to do well in school and maintain all A’s throughout high school led me to plan out every next step I was planning to take. Building up on AP classes each year for the sake of pleasing my parents and eventually myself, became so daunting to where all I thought about was school and my future. Before making every little decision, I always thought about how it would affect me in the upcoming years, even if it was in the slightest bit. I understand that school is important as it does impact the future I create for myself; however, I forgot to allow myself to have time for other things in my life. Due to all of this, I waste my time stressing to the point where I forgot to live in the moment.
To this very day, this is one of the things I struggle with the most. I’m aware that I’m an anxious individual and that it’s hard for me to try to live in the present without constantly worrying about what’s going to happen next. I would be lying if I said that I stopped thinking about the little things because that’s just how my brain works. However, I’m working on it. I try to enjoy things in life in the given moment and appreciate what’s around me. I try to go day by day. Surely it is indeed extremely difficult, but I remind myself that if it’s not something I can do or fix in the current moment, then why stress over it so much? As the upcoming class steps foot onto campus this fall, I hope we keep in mind that it’s not worth it to worry about such little things we have no control over, just try to live in the moment and appreciate every beautiful thing in life.
August 2, 2024 at 9:00 pm
Matt L,
Finding balance-
High School isn’t always easy for everyone. Many struggle with the fear of failing a class or the embarrassment through high school. For me, I was struggling with the fear of trying to balance my homework and being on time with things during the years of being a multi-sport athlete. During my upperclassmen years, things just kept getting harder and harder for me. Junior year was getting more difficult with the level of work I had gotten assigned while applying for jobs to start my early adult life. While searching for a job, I struggled to get places including interviews after my everyday practice and weekly games. At this point, my life was a mess and I had no idea what it was going to be like in the upcoming years.
During senior year I eventually had to remove two of the sports that I have done throughout my high school career. The two sports I unfortunately had to remove were basketball and cross country while leaving one sport remaining, baseball. Baseball has been my favorite sport for years and I did both of the sports I gave up just to prepare myself for it. At the end of the day, to make things easier for yourself and for other people, the best thing you can do is leave something behind for more balance. It isn’t always the easiest thing to do but if it makes your life easier and makes you happier then go for what you think is best.
August 5, 2024 at 9:25 pm
I think that it is great that you were able to prioritize things in your life and set yourself up for success not only in school but outside of it. That is great news and good luck in the future.
August 15, 2024 at 2:34 pm
I totally agree with this especially with college coming up. Being able to balance everything in your life is difficult and I too struggle with it. In the end though you still need to be able to find time for things that make you happy, even if it’s something small!
August 3, 2024 at 12:20 am
Joshua T.
I have always seen art as one of the most significant outlets for the expression of passion, be it through the roughness of their sketches, the grace of their paintings, or the complexity of their animations.
That belief has turned into something more complex following the start of this year, with the development of A.I art, and its explosion in popularity, as an argument would form on whether A.I art would replace traditional artist or not. It never seemed to me like an actual threat to my own artistic growth, so I just moved along as usual, still holding onto my beliefs that passion was what separated A.I art from traditional art. However, as the topic of the whole situation reached conversations with my friend, he would tell me how the development of A.I art destroyed his motivation to practice, which forced me to take a deeper look into the topic myself.
With what I saw, I still largely felt neutral, but I also noticed that when I figured out a piece of work was created by A.I art, there was this uneasy feeling I felt while viewing them. I then figured that A.I art lacked the inherent human nature embedded in traditional art, which at first glance is obvious, yet opened my eyes to the fact that art is most closely related to the human struggle to be better. A fact which eased my friend’s worries was that you can make hundreds of A.I generated images, but they couldn’t compare in value to the one sketch, painting, or piece of animation that someone or a group of people worked on. The emotion, hardship, discipline, growth, are all things you can see throughout any artists’ journey, it’s not about how easy someone can just write a prompt and instantly get perfect results, it’s about the struggle which pushes us to be better, not just in art, but also in life.
To push through the doubt and struggle found in the journey of art is no different from what you find in life, it’s something everyone must go through, but it’s always up to you whether you’ll get back up despite it all, to become better than who you were moments before.
August 4, 2024 at 2:11 pm
I love this essay so much!!! My essay was about how human it is to make art, even if you are ‘bad at it’. It’s really nice to see another artist say that no matter how much AI improves, art made by humans will always be better. AI art will always lack the emotion that a human pours into their art.
August 3, 2024 at 2:58 pm
Victoria Russo
Earlier in my life I would often question things I cannot control. Examples like death, natural disasters, the fact that the world is always changing and never stays the same. However, upon further reflection and a lot of thought about my current situation, that being going to college and leaving home for the first time. I’ve decided to change the way I think and what I worry about. As worrying about things out of our control only leads to stress and unwanted spiraling. Not only that, but when I am stressed become overly irrational, causing me to say things out of anger. That I then regret later.
Leaving home for the first time won’t be easy for any of us, it’s scary and unknown, nobody can predict the future. The only thing we can control, and change is the way we act towards other people and think about ourselves. We can’t control who likes us, but we can control the fact that everyone deserves to be treated with grace and kindness. You never understand the situation someone may be in. Learning how to control your emotions and live in the moment is crucial to enjoying your experience for the next four years. If we are constantly worried about things out of our control, how are we supposed to enjoy the moment, and things inside of our control. Personally, I don’t want to miss a single moment of the next four years. I want to live in the moment and enjoy the time spent with friends and family, not stressing about things out of my control.
Beginning to think this way has changed my life in so many ways. I am no longer stressed, and when I become stressed, I focus on the things I can control and let the others melt away. This has made me an overall better, kinder, and happier person. Since I am no longer allowing stress to control my life. I hope you all have a nice rest of your summer. See you in September.
August 31, 2024 at 10:32 pm
Your writing about learning how to shift your perspective because of the realizations you’ve made thorough your life is very inspiring. I hope that others will read this and allow the ideas that you shared to have a positive impact on their life, like I did.
September 2, 2024 at 9:10 pm
Love this so much! I totally agree with you, many people especially as we get older stress about things we can’t control. I am glad you have learned how to overcome this and become a better person!
September 3, 2024 at 12:39 pm
I totally relate to you about stressing over things we cannot control. I love how you learned to manage that feeling, it shows how strong you are!
September 4, 2024 at 3:16 am
This was fantastic and extremely relatable. I really like how you included the part of controlling your emotions in order to enjoy experiences. I’ve had many friends who’ve been victim including myself and had experiences ruined because they didn’t know how to handle their emotions and I can strongly agree that it’s something worth learning.
August 3, 2024 at 5:56 pm
Collin R
My Previous Belief
Throughout my life as a child, I had never connected with my peers because of not only having autism, but also because of the belief that if I were to gain sympathy from those around me, that they would like me. This belief was one that I had held through the duration of my elementary and middle school years. I was always a kid who was prone to being emotional, especially when I was either overwhelmed, or was excluded from being in an activity. Because of these events, I would become emotional, thus gaining sympathy from other kids.
The time that changed this belief was after I had graduated middle school, where I had the summer to reflect on how I had not only behaved, but how I connected with those around me. While I reflected, I realized that the reason why I could never make many friends was a result of me believing that if everyone felt sorry for me, then maybe I’d be accepted. I took note of the fact that gaining sympathy was not a way to make friends, as it would make people think that I was not mature enough to be friends with them and would only speak to me out of social obligation. Thus, during high school, I had put the belief aside and tried to deal with my emotional problems in a mature way. Doing this resulted in me finally being able to connect and talk with others without them feeling obligated to speak to me.
Now, going into college, I know that I’m ready to set aside my previous belief, and connect with the people around me.
August 4, 2024 at 2:00 pm
I’m proud of you for taking the time to re-evaluate something about yourself, realizing that it wasn’t healthy or beneficial to your needs, and changing to better accommodate your needs in a less destructive manner. I hope you make a comfortable amount of friends at college! 😀
-Kate Brien
August 8, 2024 at 12:01 am
This was absolutely amazing. It takes a lot to realize our own flaws, and being self aware. I hope transitioning into college with your new mindset is successful.
August 4, 2024 at 1:52 pm
Katelynn (Kate) Brien
This belief essay might not 100% fit, but it’s close enough.
Making art is something that is a part of human nature. It doesn’t matter if you’re good at it, it only matters if you’re having fun while doing it. You’ll get better the more you do it, so just make art without worrying about it being good. This belief of mine was formed and reinforced by studies and research done on older pieces of art and also how making art makes humans feel. Children love to make art and as they get older, that love for art is practically beaten out of them because “they’re not good enough” or “art won’t get you anywhere”. Firstly, art is very important or else you wouldn’t have most of the things we have today and secondly, if one doodles while taking notes or listening to a lesson or meeting, they are more likely to remember what was said during the lesson or meeting. Everyone should experience the joy of making art. It doesn’t need to be made for anyone, just yourself, so enjoy the process of making art. When I say art, I don’t mean a painting or drawing, it could be pottery, a story, music or a sculpture of sorts. Have fun and prove your existence, like our ancestors always have, by making art.
August 5, 2024 at 11:45 pm
I completely agree with you. It doesn’t matter if you’re the best in the world or not, only if you enjoy what you’re making is what matters. Secondly, doodling while someone has been talking to me definitely helped me remember what they were saying. Art is such a beautiful and diverse hobby in our world, with the freedom to express yourself in your own style of art. I have so much respect for artists because some of the sculptures, paintings, drawings, etc. that I’ve seen in my life have been so delicately crafted to perfection that take so much hard work and self labor and so much dedicated time which has made me strive to always make myself a better person because of that. Something so beautiful takes so much hard work to create, inside or out, human or not.
August 14, 2024 at 4:23 am
Noah B
Noah B
Today our world has overcome the epidemic of technology. Technology is playing a huge role in our everyday lives and not in a good way. It is disrupting the term “living in the moment” and the phone has become a big distraction in our everyday lives. For example, I have noticed a big difference between Puerto Rico and the Mainland. A party or a get together of some sort is made to bring people together. In the States I have noticed that parties are usually people sitting around on their phones. About fifty percent of the people at all times are on their phone. Down in Puerto Rico, it is a different world. Not a single phone is seen in sight at a party / club and people are living the moment. The Music is turned up, the great vibes are in the air and everybody is having a good time living life. There is constant laughter, dancing, singing and talking to each other about life. A club in Puerto Rico is a great example of living in the moment. Being there makes me wonder if technology is the reason why we don’t live in the moment back in the states. The parties are really just get togethers and living in the moment doesn’t exist here. We can make a change though by spending less time on our phone which would make us live more in the moment.
September 4, 2024 at 3:30 am
Ethan P
I agree with you that art is something you should enjoy and it can help your mindset. For me my photography, it helps show happiness to others which reflects in showing me it I did a good job. It can also make me happy that I took the photo if it came out beautifully.
August 5, 2024 at 12:04 am
Felipe T
I have developed a certain love that many people can relate to, and it can also connect people. It’s called “music,” and this really depends on what kind of music you listen to, but at the end of the day, if you really think about it, music heals us all in some shape or form. You have all these sorts of genres, which are all types of music that make someone either feel better, hyped, or at least not feel alone. When I was younger, I always used to struggle with anxiety and all these voices that would make me stress out even more than I should, which was a big problem for me. I never knew how to fix this issue, so I resolved to rush things to get that one thing that was bugging me done to avoid all this anxiety. Even when I did finish whatever was bugging me, I still felt this voice inside of me that was always making me feel uncomfortable or at least twitchy. That’s until I found my comfort music, which was honestly just an upbringing moment for me. I’ve always heard music in my mom’s car, whether that’s Madonna or just whatever is playing on “IHeartRadio,” but this felt different. It felt unique to me, like something I could relate to or feel comfortable in my own skin with. It’s a beautiful, unexplainable feeling, but I know that ever since that day forward, music will be such a motivation and passion in my life to not only help me continue forward but also help me feel calm. Remember, there’s always something for everyone, whether that’s now or later, but just never give up.
August 5, 2024 at 9:23 pm
Owen P
One thing I have always struggled with in life is procrastination, mainly in school but also in other parts of my life like socially and in athletics. One thing I believe and tell myself academically is that whatever you are trying to complete is going to take time first, I need to prepare to take up as much time as possible to get over procrastination. Another thing that I believe in is similar to the statement live in the moment, which is when I worry about what I have planned in the future I tell myself to focus on today and yourself. This is because I believe I only have control over those two things completely. What I can do right now will have a major impact on how I am feeling in the future. This is what I believe in and helps me get over procrastination academically and in everyday life. I hope to continue to live by that and become better at what I do and start strong in school this fall semester.
August 7, 2024 at 2:44 am
I agree as someone who also struggles with procrastination.
August 5, 2024 at 10:40 pm
Sierra U
“We leave Monday!” I told my boyfriend. I’ve been wanting to travel cross-country since before I got a car. I have been half planning this trip for months not thinking I would actually get a chance to do it. After taking three weeks off of work for a different trip that fell through, I now find myself with the time and the money to make a dream possible. I informed my family I was leaving for this trip days before I planned on hitting the road. They were very hesitant but could see how much I planned and had been looking forward to this journey. It felt like the last story I could experience and tell before going to college. So as I said we left on monday night with the goal to get from MA to Aurora, CO in three days. We spent those three days driving through the days and sleeping in Walmart parking lots at night. We started our trip off strong with seeing Niagara Falls and then the city of Chicago. Sleeping in an open parking lot in a car has proven to be uncomfortable but effective. We were so excited to be in Colorado the third day we packed our three days full of swimming, hiking and sightseeing. We did not forget to eat a ton of food we don’t usually get to eat. I am currently typing this in the car on the way home. We still have a few days till we get to MA but I’ve learned if you want something to happen you make it happen in that moment. If you always assume you will get another chance, those chances will keep flying by. I want to always live in the moment and take every chance to live my life to the fullest.
August 5, 2024 at 11:37 pm
Riley M- On the Edge
Ever since being on the brink of death, I’ve been hit in the face with the realization of learning to enjoy every moment while they last. My first date with my boyfriend, meeting my roommate for the first time, or even preparing to move into college. So many emotions come flooding in. Feeling anxious, fear, excitement, it marks a new journey you’re starting in your life, and makes me wonder how these moments can branch out into my future. I’ve found a new sense of trust and loyalty from my relationship and branches into my love for myself and others in my life that mean so much to me. My roommate is the sweetest, most genuine and caring girl I’ve ever met. I’m grateful for the opportunity of us being able to come across each other’s paths and connect in so many different ways. Learning to be in the moment and try and make a new friend has definitely paid off because I was able to gain a new loving and trusting relationship as well as a best friend and roommate all in one. Being so close to packing up half of my life and move two and a half hours away from home is terrifying to think about because time feels like it’s flying by. It definitely sparks some nerves and fear, but also brings me excitement and joy. A new journey in my life to embark on and live through a new era. That’s why I wholeheartedly believe in living in the moment while you can because these moments don’t last forever. Sometimes certain things happen that aren’t intended to happen in life that can cause pain and heartache, which is another reason for needing to live in the moment before that incident takes your life, just like it almost took mine. After being hospitalized for what felt like months, it made me realize taking somethings too seriously or not realizing the good things that are surrounding you before its too late can be detrimental.
August 6, 2024 at 1:56 pm
Alyson Tobias
“Living in the moment.”
A concept that sounds so simple, yet I find myself constantly wishing to be at any point in time but the current. I don’t mean this in any negative ways, though it may sound. I am happy and content right where I am, but I tend to reminisce on the past, wishing I could go back and relive a moment. Other times, I attempt to predict the future and imagine the great things that will come and all of the what ifs it will hold.
When I was younger, I always imagined being a senior in high school. I put this last year on a pedestal for some unknown reason, merely assuming it would be the best year yet. Eventually though, graduation neared and it felt as if senior year had flown by and I didn’t get the chance to fully enjoy it. Something I had once waited all of my life for had occurred right in front of my eyes and it was over before I knew it. Oddly enough, I wish at times I could go back to those days where senior year was just a slight thought, far away from now.
At this point in time, I have my future laid out ahead of me and I’m nervous but excited for what’s to come. With that being said, I’m also spending the last summer home with my family before leaving for college knowing this will become a normal occurrence. This has required me to appreciate every moment and truly live in the moment more than I have before.
I’ve learned that it’s okay to want to be older, and it’s also okay to want to stay young forever, but it’s not okay to dwell on the past or attempt to speed up time to the “good” days. A key part of life is that we live and learn, so it’s inevitable that we’ll grow old and begin new chapters in our lives, so really take a moment to be present in the ones you’re currently creating, and try your best to avoid letting it fly by.
August 6, 2024 at 6:14 pm
Sophie P
Everyone has something they are afraid of. It could be heights, dentists, public speaking, but one thing I believe is a universal fear is a fear of change. When you think about it, change is a terrifying reality of life. Any idea you have or anything you know as normal can change in the blink of an eye and you might not be able to do anything about it. There is no possible way to perfectly predict the future and many people live in fear because of this. However, life was not made to be planned down to the letter, so why not seize your opportunities and make the best with what you can get? It’s because of this that I believe in living in the moment.
I used to live in constant fear of change and I never let any new opportunities or people into my life. This decision led me to lead a very boring and isolating life and I fooled myself into believing I was okay with this. Once the summer before my junior year came around, I couldn’t fool myself anymore and I had to face the reality of change. I was switching to a new high school for junior and senior year. I couldn’t avoid this if I tried and that was terrifying. Those two years were the most stressful years of school I have ever been through. What really helped me conquer my fear was the fact that despite the hardships and stress, I pulled through.
Now that I can think clearly, I realize that living in fear of change wasn’t really living. Everyone assigns a different meaning to their life. Some may find their passions in traveling, getting their dream job, supporting their family. My point is, everyone has their own meaning to their life, but so many people are scared of making the changes to achieve their goals. Holding on to what you have now might be the reason you can’t find anything better so follow your passions, take a risk, and open your eyes to the beauty of change.
August 7, 2024 at 2:42 am
Vanhelsig Reyes Castellanos
#UMassD Believes Blog
UMasss Dartmouth
07 July, 2024
Living In The Moment
In my high school years I have always been told to live in the moment and not worry about what is to come or what has already happened. However, that can be hard at times and does not come so easily. Sometimes people are going through hardships that make it almost impossible to think about the moment they are currently in. Oftentimes we focus too much on what’s to come or how to right a wrong that has been committed in the past. we then forget to pay any mind to what is happening in the present where a meaningful conversation could be happening. People think to live in the moment is to just know what is happening around us, but instead is to truly only think about the current present we are in; which is what most people have a hard time comprehending. On the other hand it is theoretically impossible to always live in the moment as there are things that we as people need to worry about; such as deadlines for an assignment while at work or in other classes. Although we have things that we must always keep in mind or be aware of, there will always be time to live for a moment without worry. We lose sight of spending quality time with friends and family because our mind being elsewhere, and later in life we regret not cherishing those moments.
August 7, 2024 at 4:12 pm
In life, many people are ruled by regret. It’s something that follows them around. Regret comes in two forms: something you did or something you did not do. Missed opportunities and opportunities taken that didn’t pan out as well as people hoped for will weigh on minds like a nightmare for the living. Regret is one of the most powerful feelings and can easily crush someone if they let it take over their life.
I have decided, in opposition, to live my life without regrets. I move forward, learning from my failures and taking all the shots I can, as you always miss a shot you don’t take. Regret is to mourn, it is to miss, it is to feel loss of something that you did or did not do. I feel to regret is simply to waste your time, which we have very little of in this world. So instead of focusing so much on the past experiences, I have decided to focus on the present moment. It also helps me not waste time thinking about my future and what it holds. Overall, this is a very effective and fulfilling way of living my life. It allows me to press forward and not be held back. Seeing experiences as lessons instead of failures is much healthier and leads to a more productive and healthy existence. I hope others can learn and grow from this and live their lives unburdened by the same feelings of regret as I used to.
August 7, 2024 at 5:38 pm
Jenna A
When I was younger, I thought I had life all figured out. I believed that if I told people what they wanted to hear and acted how they wanted me to act, they’d like me. I had become a sort of shapeshifter, molding myself to align with each new person just to be liked. It was exhausting, but I thought it was worth it. Over time, parts of who I really was began to wither as I suppressed them further away. I started to lose sight of who I really was deep down. Some nights, as I laid in bed a deep sadness would wash over me. Hiding my true self didn’t make me happy; it just gave me a temporary sense of being accepted. I didn’t think anyone would like me for who I truly was.
Then one day, it just hit me. I was surrounded by the people I loved, and I suddenly realized they genuinely liked me for who I was. I didn’t have to fake anything or wear a mask. It was such a freeing moment, knowing that being myself was enough. Now. I live life knowing that I can’t make everyone like me, as long as I’m kind and true to myself, that’s enough. I believe that everyone should live life like this. We’re not supposed to be copies of each other; that would be boring. Genuine happiness stems from embracing who you are and being surrounded by others who appreciate you for you.
August 7, 2024 at 8:30 pm
Jayda Jean-Francois
Umass Dartmouth
During high school, I firmly believed in the rightness of the traditional: good grades, a top university, and a successful career. I held those beliefs so strongly because they were instilled in me by my parents and teachers, who emphasized the importance of academic achievement and career success. Additionally, societal expectations and the success stories I saw around me reinforced the idea that this was the surest path to a fulfilling life.
The pressure to conform to these ideals made it difficult to consider alternative paths. This belief became my guiding light and influenced all my choices and actions. However, a series of events tested this view and changed my understanding of true success. In my third year at school, I became a member of a volunteer organization that emphasized community relations. One of the projects involved working with children from the poor.
While they were there, I learned that happiness and contentment can come from small acts of kindness and human connection. An unforgettable moment was on thanksgiving watching their eyes lite up with joy. Despite the difficult circumstances, that radiated true happiness and love. This moment made me rethink my little definition of success. I realized that true success is not only personal development, but the impact we have on others. This belief has been important to my personal development. Adopting a broad definition of success can create a caring and compassionate environment where students value their own happiness and impact on society. My goal is to inspire others to think about their own knowledge of success by affirming this belief. Although they may not fully agree, accepting different points of view can lead to a more caring and cohesive society. As we begin this journey at UMassD, we must consider: Can our impact on others be a true indicator of our success?
August 7, 2024 at 11:54 pm
I used to believe that dying was the worst thing that could happen to me when I was a kid, but as time goes on I realize that’s not exactly what I feared . When we are young we recognize there’s so much we haven’t done compared to the other people in our lives. You went where? You did what? I can’t wait to do that! These are the things we say when we talk to people who have done more than us, and experienced more. It’s this excitement to do things and experience things that I believe keeps us wanting to live. This thought always occurs to me when someone tells me they wouldn’t do something. For example, while on a trip in Mexico I asked my friends to go ziplining with me, something I thought would be pretty fun was shut down by everyone because they were “ too scared”, and while I recognize it’s not the safest thing in the world to do. The thought of not doing something that you can only experience a few times or maybe even once because of fear completely shocks me. This is when I realized that dying isn’t my biggest fear but dying with a bunch of regrets is. We only get one life to live so everyone should live it to the absolute max. So go on that roller coaster you’re scared of, take that trip you’ve been wanting too, and tell that person you love them. None of us want to be on our deathbed looking back on all the things we could have done. Live a life with no regrets. So to those reading are you living to the fullest?
August 14, 2024 at 7:44 pm
Samuel B
I agree and I think people shouldn’t live their lives anxiously because you cant predict the outcome. Being present and not living fearsome about every move you take really defines you and who you are as a person. I believe you should live every day like its your last and glad you agree too. I used to be that person all time, living jealous, or living a life worried about how I an judged. I hope more people read this blog and If they do, I wouldn’t be surprised if they agree’d as well!
August 8, 2024 at 7:38 pm
Kailey W
Throughout high school, I was very active on social media. My content ranged from my hobbies, travels, friends and myself. Social media is a modern way to highlight your life, realistic or not. A lot of the time I found myself comparing my life to others. Why didn’t I get to go out last friday night? Why don’t I look like that? Why did this post do good and not the other? Who unfollowed me? Overwhelmed by obsessive thoughts and constant feelings of jealousy, sadness, and anger during my junior year, I decided to delete all my social media accounts.
The first few months were hard, I lost contact with a lot of my old friends. I wondered if anyone had noticed or if anyone cared. I spent a lot of time reflecting on how I felt when I was using social media. I was also bored, it’s surprising how much you rely on social media until you’re no longer using it. I had more time to explore and find things I like and fashion became a huge passtime for me. I love making, buying and wearing clothes. I started thrifting and going to pop up shows in the city and meeting new people. This helped me realize I don’t have to worry about anyone else but myself. I don’t need to like the same things as everyone else and I don’t need to record everything either. The memories of my best experiences are enough.I don’t think social media is bad. I honestly think it can be a great tool for connecting with friends, staying up to date with the news and much more. When you become obsessive over it is when it becomes a problem. There’s times I wish I could post about things I care about like clothes and maybe in the future I will. It’s been 3 years now and I can say I am genuinely so much happier and more connected with my life.
August 8, 2024 at 10:12 pm
Sophie S.
My life has been spent worrying about my future or focused on past events, both of which I have no control over. I sometimes become so consumed with my feelings of regret and uneasiness that it’s difficult to feel content in the life I’m living. Since the rise of social media and my presence on it, I’ve began to feel further behind in life than my peers. Social media has given a false perception on the world around me and has led me to feel like I’m missing out on things in my life. The constant comparison of my life to others has caused me to want to be more present in my own life. In aspiration to be like people I see on social media, I’ve tried to mimic aspects of their lifestyles to try and be like them and the lives they lead, but that’s never worked out for me. I am my own person, and I’ve realized that I can’t fully control what happens to me, so I shouldn’t dwell on comparisons.
People say that everything happens for a reason, and over the past couple years I’ve started to believe it more and stop caring so much about what I have or haven’t done. I’ve come to understand that everyone’s timelines are different and things that happen to me at one point may have already happened for someone else or not. I feel like we as a society need to stop focusing on what other people are doing and instead focus on ourselves and not get so caught up in comparisons.
August 8, 2024 at 10:34 pm
Weskenlee C
For much of my life, I found myself thinking of “what ifs” and “what next”. The future seemed to loom over every decision, and I often sacrificed the present moment in pursuit of a distant goal. But in the rush to get ahead, I forgot to appreciate the steps I was taking right now. This mindset began to shift during a particularly challenging summer when I was swarmed with responsibilities. Such as internships, college applications, and family expectations. One day, I found myself sitting on the beach, surrounded by the beauty of the ocean, yet completely overwhelmed by my to do list. As waves crashed, I realized I was missing the beauty right in front of me because my mind was somewhere else.
This was my turning point. I started practicing mindfulness, taking time to breathe and focusing on the now. I realize that living in the moment didn’t mean ignoring the future, but rather appreciating the journey as it unfolded. Disbelief became crucial, as I am now going into college, where the pressure to succeed can overshadow the present experience.
So as we step into this new chapter, the question remains. What will we miss out today if we’re always focused on tomorrow?
August 9, 2024 at 12:44 am
Shane C
After leaving my previous club team, I realized I needed to learn how to live in the moment, especially while on the field. I remember going to the try out back in 2021, I was so nervous I started to feel nauseous in the car. I was afraid I wasn’t going to make the team and I would have to look for another club to join. A few days later, I found out that I not only made the team, but I made one of their top two teams. At the time I was ecstatic, unfortunately I didn’t know that it would kill any ounce of confidence I had. Being on one of the top teams, I had to go to a certain location as the club had multiple throughout New Jersey. The head coach at this location turned out to be extremely verbally abusive to multiple players there, unfortunately I was one of them. Every practice his words would chip away at my confidence, I lost my love for the game and started to overthink everything. It got to the point where I couldn’t even practice because I would overthink too much and just freeze. My mom saw how it was effecting me and decided to pull me from the club and got me a sports psychologist. After working with her for months, she helped me realize how important it was to live in the moment and not anticipate or over stress while playing. This has carried over to life too, and has helped me live in the moment everyday and not overthink things as much.
August 9, 2024 at 5:38 pm
Tyler L
Throughout my whole life, I have had many experiences that have affected me both positively and negatively, leaving me to think about them for days upon days. For example, when I was in little league, the team I was on lost in the championship game after we all had worked so hard to get to that point. I hadn’t played very well, so I felt like I had not only let my team and my coaches down, but my family as well, because they were there for me helping me get ready for there game. I was only 10 at the time, but I still felt awful about it. I felt bad for the next week or so, letting the way I felt about something that I had no control over bring me down. I didn’t want to do anything with my family at all, I just wanted to lay in bed alone. It was at that moment that I realized that I couldn’t let myself live in the past.
Nobody should let themselves live in the past, it can drag you down and make you feel horrible. Living in the past could also be a positive memory, and you may only think about things in your future in the same way as the memory, but it may not be the same. Live is not always easy, and you shouldn’t make it harder on yourself.
One question still looms, what will college bring into our futures?
August 9, 2024 at 8:05 pm
Joshua T
Early in my life, I’ve always believed that refining ideas and improving upon ideas or creations was the best way to have amazing work. Like, why shouldn’t you get a fourth set of eyes on your English essay to think of a new way to write a few sentences? That’s how the best essays and paintings have always done it, right?
Except not all of them.
My belief really changed when I had an amazing talk with my late grandfather about his own paintings. I never even knew he had painted until he brought thirteen-year-old me into his bedroom when we were talking about his old jobs. I asked him about the paintings all over his walls, and we had a great talk about his process. However, what really resonated with me was his restraint to let go. He said, “There are so many times I want to just touch up that one tree, or I think the glisten of the water is a little too harsh, but you can’t do that. You can’t do that because you’ll only have one painting forever.” That thought of letting go intentionally was a first for me. But the more I noticed it, the more I found it applicable to more walks of my life. So do what you can and show who you want, but think, does the painting you’re living in need a touch up, or is it time to sign the canvas and start anew?
August 10, 2024 at 2:02 pm
Victoria B.
Something I have come to believe is to truly live in the moment because not everyday is promised. I tend to linger about past events or things that have yet to come and have spent a lot of time doing so. Sometimes I’ll think back to a past event and think about what I could’ve said or what could’ve happen instead of what actually did. Another big problem of mine is to stress about the future and things that haven’t even happened yet. Something that has led me to have such a strong believe in this is working in a nursing home. At the end of junior year I became a Certified Nursing Assistant and began working in a nursing home. During my time there, I have seen a large number of deaths. Some living up to or even over the age of 100. I have seen some suffer leading up to their death and some go peacefully. Seeing these residents pass away just reminds me to live life to the fullest at a young age while I can because not everyday is promised. These people lived up to an age where some went to sleep wondering if they were going to wake up the next day. This is what has lead me to believe in living in the moment because tomorrow is not promised. To be present every day in the current life and not the past one or the one yet to come. Make life what you can and live life to the fullest.
August 10, 2024 at 4:02 pm
I can completely relate to your experience because I also work in a long term care setting. For a young person to witness such things it has also changed my outlook on life in a similar way. I too can say I value the importance of living life to the fullest and valuing it much more now than I did before working in this setting.
August 10, 2024 at 2:02 pm
Katiyana M
For much of my life, I believed that success depended on accurate planning and relentless forward thinking. I was always focused on the next big milestone: the next exam, the next achievement, the next stage in my carefully laid-out plan. This mindset made me diligent and goal-oriented, but it also left me constantly anxious, always looking ahead and rarely savoring the present moment. My outlook began to change during a summer trip with my family to a small island. Without the usual pressures of school and extracurriculars, I found myself with the rare gift of time. I spent hours on the beach, feeling the sand between my toes and listening to the rhythmic lull of the waves. I watched sunsets without the distraction of a phone or my ever fast-paced mind, and I engaged in unhurried conversations with my family, appreciating their presence in a way I hadn’t before. I realized that by constantly focusing on the future, I was missing out on the beauty and richness of the present. This realization was life-changing. I began to understand that living in the moment doesn’t mean neglecting future goals but rather appreciating the journey and finding joy in the present. As I prepare to enter college, I carry this newfound appreciation for the present with me. College will undoubtedly be filled with plans and ambitions, but I am determined to balance them with mindfulness and presence. I want to fully experience each moment, build genuine connections, and find happiness in the here and now. This belief will help me navigate the exciting, challenging, and unpredictable journey ahead, reminding me to cherish every step along the way.
August 10, 2024 at 4:03 pm
Ayla L
From a young age many have heard the phrase money doesn’t buy happiness. However, we often become influenced indirectly by society who promotes the exact opposite belief. Social media influences and entertainers often promote the idea that gaining riches will lead to success and happiness. Majority of the time people only display the positive aspects of their lives and avoid showing the negative. However, as I’ve matured and had different experiences in my life I strongly believe happiness is not achieved by gaining material riches. As a certified nursing assistant working in a nursing home and caring for the sick elderly it has become evident to me that when we age the desire for material things diminishes. Money doesn’t prevent us from aging, gaining age related illnesses, and losing our loved ones in death. Even the richest man in the world will eventually die. However, I do believe that money can affect the comfort of our lives. Money can bring a sense of stability and superficial happiness that we experience through things like gift giving and a lack of financial stress, which unfortunately ceases. My experiences so far in my life have taught me that what brings lasting happiness is being healthy and valuing our time together with those we love. While I am eager to strive for success and financial stability I am striving to continue to value my time with friends and family which makes me happy. So why not strive for the more important things in life?
August 11, 2024 at 1:45 am
Ava P,
Living in the moment is a task that is relatively difficult to do in today’s society. With the widespread use of social media, it is easy to get caught up in other people’s lives, striving to make your own comparable to theirs. This behavior often leads to anxiety, depression, and other aspects detrimental to our mental health. In order to combat this, we need to strive to find joy in our lives, and live in the moment. It is important to be present each day, which in turn causes less stress and a happier attitude. Anything going on in the past or future can cause you to be stressed, and you don’t want to ruin the good that exists in the current moment by thinking about those things. Things in life have the potential to become better when you’re living in the present moment. Being involved in the moment will help you to enjoy the little things in life, such as the change of the color of the leaves in the fall, or the beauty of a sunrise. I encourage anyone reading this post to try to spend the next couple of days, or more ideally the rest of your lives, living in the moment and enjoying the little things. Try to take a break from social media and instead of watching through the lens of Instagram posts, watch life through the lens of your own eyes. Life seems long but it really does go by fast. Enjoy each day as it comes and be thankful for what you have now. Live each day in the moment.
August 11, 2024 at 8:43 pm
These days social media has become a way for people to ignore themselves and act more like the people they see online, I’m not a very active person on social media and even I see how I can project myself onto others online. Your essay really encapsulates that feeling.
August 11, 2024 at 6:19 am
Alexander L
There are many ways you can just live in a moment. You could just relax and chill your way through events and life, without putting too much thought of the future or what’s behind you. You could live in the moment of a huge success such as rejoicing in the win of a big football game or celebrating after a big test. But to me I think the best way to desire living in the moment is just to soak in the parts that are special. An example for me is when I visited Italy back in 2023. In the beginning of the class trip I was like any other tourist. Taking pictures of all I could. I would take a picture of the secrecy. I would take a picture of the art. I would even take a picture of what food I was about to eat. But then it hit me. Why take all of these pictures. Wouldn’t I won’t forget this amazing experience. So what’s the point of some pictures? So from there I went through the rest of the trip without pulling out my phone for every cool thing I saw. And it made the trip so much better. It made the sea cliff look so much more pretty. It made the statues look more majestic. It made the food all the more tasty. So I say live in moments like those. Yes take 1 or 2 pictures for the family but if you live in the moment you won’t ever have to worry about forgetting the experience.
August 12, 2024 at 3:09 am
I like your philosophy of why take pictures when I can live in this moment. That is how I’ve started to live my life! Yes some pictures are nice, but actually experiencing things first hand and looking back on them is where it’s at!! I think that our society cares to much about popularity and social media which isn’t great, I feel like our phones/social media take up to much of our lives and we as a society miss so many opportunities and memories because of it!
August 11, 2024 at 5:19 pm
Molly S.
When you hear about people who focus too much on social media and what they post, a person never thinks that could ever be them. Right?
Living so close to Boston it became routine for me to be in the city. In order to fully capture the unique beauty of the city, I began using my phone to take pictures and videos of sights and various events happening. As I revisited the same parts of the city I began taking duplicate pictures of the same objects because I believed I was able to best capture the moment through my phone’s camera. As I began taking more and more photos, oftentimes I found myself taking pictures or videos just so I could post them. That’s when my beliefs changed and I realized I wasn’t fully living in the moment but instead capturing a little part of it, and that wasn’t enough. This is when I learned to put my phone down and occasionally take a few pictures of sights that I wanted for myself, not my social media.
My newly developed belief is that living in the moment and capturing what is happening in the present creates more valuable memories than taking pictures and videos to show people later. You are also able to connect with others on a deeper level when you have a conversation with them about a certain experience, rather than then viewing it through their tiny phone screen. Through learning how to live in the moment I discovered how to create better memories and form deeper connections to those around me.
August 12, 2024 at 3:17 pm
Couldn’t agree anymore. Taking pictures made me think wow life is so breathtaking and something we should enjoy. Looking back on memories brings a smile to my face knowing life was good when it was and it could get better every day. Right capturing the moments creates a treasuring moment to keep on too!!! I love that for you it created a connection that you want to look into nothing has to be posted on everything is great that you can keep the moment within!
August 11, 2024 at 5:41 pm
Jamaury B
Since I was young I’ve always heard “money doesn’t buy happiness”. Society makes it to where you need money to live the life everyone wants. social media and entertainers promote that being rich leads to happiness. Those people only show the positive in their life and neglect showing the negative. Growing up I started to believe happiness is not what makes everyone else happy, like material things or being rich. It’s about what you make it. As we get older on love and desires start to change anyways. We lose interest in the material things we once loved. I do believe that money plays a big part in the way we live. Having more just means we could live more comfortably. Money doesn’t necessarily bring us happiness but it could stop stress. It brings a sense of superficial happiness we get from being able to provide and no financial stress. Experience’s I’ve had so far is happiness is not what you have but what you make it. Happiness is being able to spend time with those you love. Like everyone else of course I want success and to be rich but at the same time I want to enjoy the time I get to spend with friends and family. Live life for what it is and not what society makes it to be.
August 11, 2024 at 8:41 pm
Daniel J
When I had started doing track and field, I had this preconceived notion that the sport was about running fast or throwing far, or jumping high. While that statement is not entirely wrong, I don’t think that it is entirely true either. I would make the argument the is a sport about running faster. Throwing farther. Jumping higher. Not in accordance with those around you, but compared to the you of yesterday. One question that I think I got more than any other when I started track and field was “Would you still do it if you weren’t fast?”. And every time I answered that question with no. Because to me, the sport was still about running fast. Now the thing that finally made me change my mind on that question is the other thing that track is about. The relationships that you build. Not only between your teammates, but everyone around you who also does the sport. There is a sense of respect that everyone who does track has for everyone else who does track.
To give an example through personal experience I will now tell a story that of people in my life only my father knows about. It was right after indoor nationals my sophomore year. My relay teammates Andrew, Billy, and Josh had already started their drive home. My dad was talking to someone that my brother was running with collegiately. I got bored with the conversation and started to look for something to fiddle with to kill time, and what else was in my bag but a baton. So I started messing with it. To fully paint the scene, this was an indoor hall with tile floors, very reverberating conditions. I will not paint this lightly. I dropped the baton. A baton hitting the floor is one of the loudest most identifiable noises in track, behind maybe the starters gun. This was the loudest baton anyone has ever dropped. The second it hits the ground every single person in that humongous hallway stops talking and looks to see what idiot just dropped the baton. Me. I knew exactly what I had to do. I could never let my teammates know about this ever. So I did 40 pushups, all 10 for me and my teammates. As I started doing the push ups the other athletes in the hall started counting them. Soon everyone in the hall was counting my push-ups. Every single person there heard a single sound and knew exactly what had happened and exactly what was to happen next. That is what this sport is all about. Bringing all these people together. That’s only on the strangers side for me. Equally as important are the close friends you make during track. I have gotten extremely lucky with the fact that I have gotten to compete on some of the highest stages of high school sports both because, and with my closest friends. I went to nationals to run two different relays. I anchored the 4×4 and was the last athlete of my year to compete for my high school, and the thing that I was most excited about was getting to spend a weekend with some of my best friends. And it was those same people who showed me who the most impressive track athletes are. It’s not the genetically gifted guys who can run sub 11 in their first season of track. It’s the guys who can show up and underperform, and get right back on their feet the next day to work their ass off get better. That is what track is truly about. Building relationships and getting better. So yeah, to all of those people who asked me if I would do track if I wasn’t good at it, I would.
August 12, 2024 at 2:59 am
Brian Q,
To me living in the moment was always to live life how I wanted, but after much reflection I can’t say that I’ve truly lived in the moment as much as I would’ve liked. My entire educational career from kindergarten all the way up to high school I thought that graduation would be a relief or take the weight off my shoulders and make me feel good, but it didn’t. Graduation didn’t seem like I really accomplished much, I waited for my name to be called and when it was I got a handshake from my principal’s hand and was given my diploma. I spent so much time working and studying in high school to try to be a good student all for an underwhelming handshake. If I could go back and do more things and get more involved with my school/community/friends I would and maybe then I would’ve felt more sentimental at graduation. I guess what I wish I could’ve done differently would be to live in the moment and not worrying about the future, enjoying the little time I had left with my friends, not caring about all the drama that I involved myself in, and just having a good time with my classmates. So if living in the moment is not worrying about the future or not caring about the past then I don’t think I will ever be able to truly live in the moment, nor do I think anyone can really “live in the moment”. We all have to much to think about doing and never enough time to do it.
August 12, 2024 at 5:25 pm
I find my self wishing that this summer before collage wouldent end and that im having fun now and dont want it to go away. and how im just living in the moment trying to relish everylast bit of it before this time ends.
August 12, 2024 at 12:19 pm
Ava S
Being online is something I genuinely love and enjoy. It allows me to connext with people, especially those I’m distanced from. It’s a privleage to cultivate and keep being close with someone, even when you cannot be physcially with them. Instant connection is something many people take entirely for granted. With this, the internet has helped me discover certian parts of myself, introducing me to significant aspects of my life and expanding my knowledge of likewise things. I feel endlessly grateful for these positive expirences, however the internet is a tool, nothing more and nothing less. Technology is necessary, but it is used to enhance, not to replace.
Many people take the privilege of the internet and social media entirely for granted, making it seem like a deprave and sad thing to “be online”. Being online isn’t inherently bad, there just needs to be a seperation between reality and social media and the internet. The misuse and overuse of the two are detriment to ones wellbeing, we were not made to be online all the time. The internet was designed as a tool to enhance our humanity, not detract from it. It is so entirely important to have a balance between the two, even if real life seems terrifying. Get off the internet and connect with someone or something you care about and see how it makes you feel when you come back later!
August 12, 2024 at 3:11 pm
Jenna P
Something that made me wonder about the world is how long will people say “I can’t”, “I tried”, “I”m not able”.
We all have our breaking points in life that tend to cause us to overthink and endure society negatively. Days where you lose awareness of the present turn into being unmotivated, lost, and incapable. Looking outside the window thinking to yourself when will things get better? Living is something no one should take for granted it comes with a consistent reality check. Being able to voice opinions, make change, and encourage others sparks a community. Telling stories generations later, being able to create connections, engaging in community, and breathing in air. Is something we all want to live in the moment for.
I can say I used to take living in the moment for granted. Being able to take accountability for everyday actions helped me become the person I am today. I’ve realized that others around us may not have the same opportunities or some may have more than us. The one thing we all have in common is an opportunity. An opportunity to make change with resources provided for us. I am someone who has moved around a lot. Being able to find a place to call home was difficult but worth the result. Every day that has gone by I think of where I’ve started from schools being demanding, not accepting, and not feeling like home to having a community that accepts, encourages, and most importantly feels like home. Going through a cycle of understanding and taking in what the world has given.
The fact that most of us can breathe in air is something we should take pride in. Being able to say I can wake up the next day is something one should be motivated about. You never know when today could be your last so make the most of living in the moment. Smile to those around you and take pictures to make memories last!
August 12, 2024 at 3:49 pm
Jack Strickland
The rising challenges this generation is facing is no secret. For example, the average price of rent in the 1980’s was 243$, now, it’s 1900$. The average cost of a house then was 47k, almost the amount of a yearly salary then, now, prices have risen dramatically with the average house today being 417k. And this isn’t mentioning everything else, college, groceries, insurance, etc.
Now you probably didn’t need to be told this, I’m sure you’ve felt the pressure put on our wallets, but I wonder how we got here, and what can be done about this. I’d like to point the finger to the government, but I find myself questioning if they’re solely to blame, and if we as individuals can make more of a difference. Take the comparison between now and the 1980’s, yes, the substantial change in pricing is overkill, but we have many advantages that they didn’t. Our advances in technologies and the Internet of Things give us more opportunities to better ourselves, allowing for self-learning, and career paths that wouldn’t be thought possible then.
To close, I chose to focus this blog on this topic to bring more awareness to our financial status, but to also remind us of the ability, resources, and power we have. So I highly encourage you to chase your passions and talents, whether gaming, a sport, or anything in between and make something out of it. We’ve been dealt a hard hand but we won’t fold and it’s our responsibility to make the world a better place. So I wish you the best, and Good Luck!
August 12, 2024 at 5:22 pm
Jackson L
When people say stop rehashoing the past or stop worrying about the future, they are right. We live on a floating rock in space travaling thousasds of miles per hour. Does our life really matter that much. Well yes to a certain extent, to the people we care about and who care about us, but to the whole world do we really matter? No. I could go up to a random person and start a nice pleasent conversation with them, just small talk. And within a week its almosty certain that they would have forgotten about our little chat. Now yes there are differant circumastances where my conversation with them could be really meaningful and that they would reflect back on it. But more or less you would just be another person who came and went. So does our actions and life matter. No we can do what ever we want and only a small population of people would notice or care. The thing that made me say this was that ending scene in Men in Black 2 where it zoomed out and showed that our Galaxy was actually just some marbles aliens played with. So yeah do your thing and stop caring or worrying about the past our future and just live in the moment.
August 12, 2024 at 6:17 pm
Peshitta K.
I believe that our choices influence our chances. We must make choices every day. It could be something as simple as studying for a test. Sometimes we fail to consider the outcome of different choices, especially if they have no effect on our lives. Our chances at whatever outcome are significantly changed by the choices we make concerning them. Say for example the test; if you choose to study for it, then your chances of passing are increased and vice versa is true.
This experience may not be personal, but it did change my life forever. In 2022, my mother, who is a registered nurse, made a choice to relocate us to the US. Having lived in Kenya, she wanted to offer us a better life in a place with more opportunities. She joined an organization called O’ Grady Peyton that focused on employing international nurses to work in the US. She woke up every day and decided to do the best she could: work, learn, study and do it all again. Her choices gave us the chance to make something better off our lives.
Our choices have the chance to shape or break our futures. Sometimes the choices lead to outcomes that are entirely out of our control. Most of the time, however, the chances of the outcome of our decisions lie entirely in our hands. The decision is up to us in the end. Will you increase or decrease your chances at the best life has to offer?
August 29, 2024 at 5:00 pm
Steven D. H.
I agree with this wholeheartedly. Many people don’t realize how much our choices can change our day, our week, or even our lives. Sometimes it’s obvious, sometimes it’s not. We can only hope to make the best ones, or learn from the worst ones.
August 12, 2024 at 6:30 pm
Georgia Urbec
I used to be terrified of forgetting things, I’d use up all my polaroid photos and get full storage notifications on my phone daily. I had this feeling that there was no point in experiencing something if I couldn’t make it last longer, remember it longer, be there longer. I’ve always been very sentimental about things, I still hold on to old clothes, trinkets, and cards for lack of a heart to get rid of them. But I think this adamance to dig my heels in is just holding me back, viewing a moment through your eyes in the future just makes it go by faster, thinking of how soon you’ll be away from someone will just distract you from laughing and smiling with them now. Its very hard to let go of a death grip on the past, I get the sense I’m leaving the old me and my old memories all alone. But if you keep staring behind your shoulder you’ll miss out on so much ahead. I want to grow and adapt to the changes ahead of me, I don’t want to be a stubborn person anymore. I have visions and daydreams of the kind of girl I would like to be, but I don’t think anyone can achieve their dreams if they’re still thinking about how sad they were in 8th grade. I know there’s good ahead for me, I believe it’s time I start putting all my attention to the future ahead of me.
August 12, 2024 at 9:50 pm
Naxon P
People should not be scared to express themselves if they are not hurting anyone else. I felt scared to express myself this way, until I went to a public event with crowds of people all gathered in this one spot to listen to a sound we all collectively loved. Everyone was yelling the lyrics, standing in excitement, and overall having a fantastic time. Everyone was except me. I was enjoying the music like everyone else, but I could tell I was not expressing it as passionately as those around me. Song after song played, with the audience’s excitement growing, along with my fear of embarrassment.
Eventually, my favorite song by the band started playing, and my eyes lit up. I stood up without thinking and started to shout the lyrics like everyone else around me. Once I realized what I had done, I sat back down and curled up into a ball, until a kind man standing behind me, no older than 40, wearing a red baseball hat yelled to me over the sound of the excited screams.
“It’s okay, I can see. Don’t be afraid to get excited you won’t make anyone mad. That’s what you’re here for ain’t it?” Impishly I was able to get out a thank you before going back to standing and singing the lyrics. I gradually got more comfortable doing this and was able to stand and sing for the rest of the album before leaving the audience.
In that moment I felt an insane amount of joy from something that would make other people cringe. If the action doesn’t hurt anyone else, I see no reason why someone should be afraid to embarrass themselves over such a large reward. However, in society today, a scarce amount of people will put themselves out there in fear of that embarrassment, knowing that it would bring them more joy than the embarrassment they would feel. Why not choose joy over entrapment?
August 12, 2024 at 11:42 pm
Jillian Koval:
When this assignment was brought up during summer orientation, my face lit up. I knew exactly what I was going to write about, and it was going to be a masterpiece.
At least, that’s what I thought before I sat down at my computer and completely drew a blank.
Reaching for some sort of lifeline out of “writer’s block” (if you could even call it that), I snooped at the different entry topics, looking for any inspiration to get the mind juices flowing (please forget that I said “mind juices”). When I saw the category for “Living in the Moment”, I was hit with a brilliant idea. It’s the summer before college, so the TikTok worthy content was waiting to be had and documented in this essay. I thought, “I’m gonna have the best summer with friends–do all of these super fun, rebellious (but legal) teenage things, and it’s going to be awesome!”.
In all honesty, it took me two months to realize that those summer videos–the ones you see on TikTok or Instagram–are for the people who have trust funds. The people who don’t need to work and/or worry about money to spend and save. I’ve done nothing but work all summer, and it feels really shitty to look back and realize that I haven’t lived in the moment once. I haven’t had the opportunity to.
Wake up. Work. Gym. Bed. Repeat.
Reflecting on my summer brings that pang of guilt to my chest; my whole body really. Instead of living in the moment and spending time with my family and friends before I have to leave, I’ve been spending time working towards the future. Saving up money that I’ll need to have to hang out with my future friends at college, not the ones that I have at the moment.
Don’t get me wrong. I’m not saying it’s a bad thing to work towards the future. In fact, it’s good to be prepared, and know what you want and need. But it just makes me sad to know that the friends I’ve spent my whole life around, are all moving apart and onto the next chapters of their lives. Neither of us have reached out much this summer.
I don’t believe that anyone can truly live in the moment. Humans are designed to have these busy heads filled with choices and consequences for the future. We can never fully ignore them, no matter how hard we try. But I’m determined to, at the very least, attempt to live in the moment for the remainder of my summer. As the very wise Master Oogway said:
“Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift. That’s why it’s called the present.” – Kung Fu Panda
August 13, 2024 at 2:43 am
Emma J.
As I have experienced life and everything that it has to offer throughout the past eighteen years, I have begun to notice the negative impacts that cell phones and social media have on most people’s attitudes, beliefs, and their willingness to cherish their surroundings. I am very grateful to have had the opportunities to do many different exciting and fun things with my friends and family, such as going to concerts, watching the Patriots win the Super Bowl in person, etc. During these obviously inspiring and intriguing events, I notice the increasing number of people around me who focus more on the video playing on their phone than all of the special things happening all around them. Specifically, when I was lucky enough to get tickets to Super Bowl LI when the Patriots historically came back from a 28-3 deficit to win the Super Bowl, my family and I couldn’t believe what we had just witnessed and were just so happy to be a part of that crowd. However, there were so many people not even paying attention during the most important plays of that game because they were too involved with their phones rather than enjoying such an insane and unique experience with the people around them. It was at that moment that I declared that I would never be one of those people who misses the special things going on around me and that I would always prioritize living in the moment and embrace my surroundings instead of ignoring them. Everyone, no matter if they agree with my beliefs on this matter or not, should be aware of its importance because even though technology is very useful and helpful, it is ruining genuine relationships, causing extreme lack of communication, and preventing people from making the most of the experiences that they are lucky to have. Something that everybody, not just those of us on campus, should consider is how much of our lives have we missed because we decided that a social media post or a silly game to play was better than living in the moment and embracing life?
August 13, 2024 at 3:55 am
Spongebob & Perspective
My Open Mindedness has no limits, it might even be my greatest asset. Despite that, I grew more and more tired seeing what has become of SpongeBob SquarePants every time I tune into nickelodeon. There was no changing my mind that the current day show was a soulless money grab made by depthless writers. It was the principal of it that upset me most, it was almost like a new show, and what they were doing reminded me of that ‘Just let it go Bruh… it’s over’ meme. Whenever new episodes were on I would scoff, rant about it for a minute, and then move on with my day. One day I didn’t though.
Its only human to be oddly entranced & intrigued by something you don’t like, which explains why I sat there and actually paid attention to what I was watching for once. Was it still over saturated brain rot? Yes. Were all the beloved characters reduced to basic archetypes? Yes! But there was a newfound charm to it. The lack of overall depth made those little droplets of Witt meaningful. There were story telling elements in the show that would have never been possible for the pre-2016 SpongeBob, nothing is off the table now. Once I decided to shut up and watch, I really got into and accepted the show for what it was. Reflecting on it all now, Spongebob Squarepants is just the modern day Ship of Theseus.
The way the story goes is, the ship kept getting new parts, and after years of replacements, no parts of the original ship remained. After all that, was it still the same ship? I first thought no, but with this SpongeBob stuff in mind, im starting to reconsider that. Change isn’t accomplished overnight, all parts of that ship have been connected to each other through association. Those new parts are the SpongeBob equivalent to new people coming on board, and adding a splash of their life and views to it. You can just look at an episode and guess what year it was made. These weren’t just money hungry depthless writers (sort of true), these were people with a growth mindset. New parts were needed for the ship to handle changing tides, where old parts wouldn’t have held up. I’d rather welcome this change in SpongeBob before accepting attempts to keep what made the old episodes so special, up to the point that it becomes stale. It’s almost like an athlete making a graceful exit in their prime, and moving onto their new calling. You can still watch their old tapes, and enjoy the present, its still the same person. I still put on old episodes in the background during the day, which really is the luxury of it. What once existed still exists. It’s Still the same old ship, you just have to shut up and watch.
August 13, 2024 at 6:56 am
Luke L.
This summer I worked on “living in the moment” which to me meant not worrying about the events down the line that made me anxious or nervous. I’ve always had a hard time controlling my nerves and I have always struggled with anxiety and stress. When I used to play soccer for my club team and for school I would get really anxious about what people would say if I didn’t play well or make the right choices on the field. I was also anxious when it came to talking to other people. This summer I tried living in the moment without worrying about the stressful things I had to do the next day or what someone might think of me for doing whatever I wanted with my friends or saying something dumb to a complete stranger. For example I had a water gun fight in a parking garage with my friends in the middle of the day. Living in that moment I didn’t think about other people in there looking at us like we were stupid I was just enjoying it because it was fun. Obviously not everyone struggles the same way I do when it comes to anxiety in social settings or stress but I think living in the moment is a good belief to put into practice. Especially nowadays where people get judged for anything. I believe that living in the moment means not worrying about what ifs and just taking in everything around you. Fear of the future shouldn’t ruin a great experience you could have now.
August 13, 2024 at 2:10 pm
The moment you stop caring about what people think of you is the moment you truly start to live in the moment. We all have flaws and we’re not perfect. The last sentence very powerful, and I hope that you’re an anxiety become less and less when it comes to talking to other people.
August 13, 2024 at 1:49 pm
Andre F
The idea that success is based on one’s occupation and income is one that I have challenged and modified throughout time. Growing up, I thought that obtaining one of these two things was a must for success. I started to have doubts about these ideas as I grew older and experienced important life events. For example I was nominated in middle school by all my teachers to participate in the National Junior Honors Society because of my conduct and willpower to excel in my educational prowess. After this moment in my life the Idea of success being determined by what job you have and the amount of money you make was completely changed. I had realized that academic achievements were also a big part of success in life. I see people in this world that have the standard markers of success and they seem unfulfilled in their life. I have also seen people who might not have the conventional “success” traits but their life is filled with joy.
This belief is not only important to me but other people in our community especially to younger audiences because they might have the same belief that I had as a kid about standard success traits. People should listen to my belief because some people in life will have the conventional success traits but be unhappy in life and they have to remember that success is not just about the amount of money you make but enjoying life with your healthy family.
August 13, 2024 at 4:08 pm
I agree, everyone has their own definitions of success, just like how everyone has different goals and aspirations for their lives. And for some, income and occupation may just fit into that, but that is not the universal definition for everyone.
August 16, 2024 at 9:58 pm
I agree with this as success can be achieved in many different ways as everyone has a different definition of success which can cause people to achieve success in their own ways and not just by the universal standard of success.
August 29, 2024 at 11:16 pm
Much agreed. There’s many different types of success, money, luxury, and most important happiness. People define success in many incredible ways. I personally believe that success is you being able to enjoy your job but also have a loving family by your side. Even if you aren’t the wealthiest, middle class, or even lower class. If your family is bonded together and there’s much love around it, you are successful in my eyes.
August 13, 2024 at 4:04 pm
Antonio B
As I’ve gotten older, that feeling of nostalgia has occupied my mind, somehow convincing me that my past is somehow better than my present. I am constantly reminiscing on the past, thinking about how good I used to have it, craving those nostalgic moments and feelings. But it’s my habit of escaping the present moment for my future, which is what made me come to a realization. I have caught myself daydreaming and thinking about what I am excited to do next, whether it’s an upcoming sporting event, family or friend gathering, or even a milestone or goal that I’ve been working towards, I constantly find myself craving that sense of anticipation and never appreciate who I am or what I am doing in the present. I came to this realization while watching my favorite basketball team, the Boston Celtics, win a championship. While it may seem insignificant, it opened my eyes to where this trend has reoccurred in almost every aspect of my life. To give context to this situation, I have been a Celtics fan since before I could even remember. The older I got, the more attached I became to the team, and ultimately the more heartbroken I was when the Celtics ultimately came up short, year in and year out. Every year my interest and investment grew, as did my expectations, and every year ended with disappointment and frustration. So, you could imagine the feeling of finally watching my team lift the trophy this past year was an incredible experience for me, and while it was, I couldn’t stop thinking about what’s next. The team I’ve been watching for 10+ years finally accomplished what I’ve been anticipating, but the feeling was hollow due to the fact that all that anticipation has already moved on to next year. But this isn’t just about my favorite sports team, this applies to all areas of my life. After some reflection, I’m able to see my problem of my lack of ability to live in the moment. I can be experiencing something that I have waited a decade for, but even still that isn’t fulfilling enough, and your brain gravitates towards the next experience that eventually will leave you unfulfilled and empty. In that moment, watching the green confetti fall while in the streets of Boston, surrounded by a million other fans who all anticipated this moment, I just tried to take it all in, and completely strip any thought of the future from my head, and just appreciate the moment I was in, knowing that years later I will be reminiscing about the time I was living in. After that moment, I’ve applied this mindset to every hour of my day, trying just to be content with where I am currently, while working on my goals and staying motivated to improve. Many people get stuck in their past, or maybe are too obsessed with their future, but I hope this epiphany sticks with me and becomes one of my defining qualities as I go on.
August 13, 2024 at 4:15 pm
Brian T,
To me living in the moment means forgetting about the past and not worrying about the future, subsequently living every second of life at its fullest. I think one thing I’ve always struggled with was enjoying or living a moment without worrying about past events or future outcomes. One specific event that comes to mind relating to this was back in my sophomore year of high school, I took a week of work to go on vacation. That whole week while on vacation instead of fully enjoying the moment with my friends I’d worry about work, I’d worry about what I’d need to do once I get back and if I need to catch up on anything. Or it would go the other way around. I’d be at work and instead of focusing on what I need to do I would think about the next time I’d go on vacation. My belief is important to myself and should be for others because just like the example I just stated, I think living every second of a moment at its fullest displays a lot of self respect and confidence. I believe one major outcome from living with the worry of the past or future is we tend to go back and tell ourselves why we didn’t enjoy a specific moment more than we should’ve. At the end of the day we only live once, life is too short for us to be worrying about what happened in the past or what will happen in the future. A wise man once said “the present is called the present because some say it’s a gift.”
August 14, 2024 at 12:57 am
Logan A
This was very eye opening for me because I never really thought about how much I get hung up on past mistakes. Realizing that the past is in the past and there’s nothing you can change about it is a very helpful perspective. Letting go of the past can help you move onto the future without regrets.
August 19, 2024 at 7:36 pm
I agree with what you have to say, to truly live in the moment you need to stop worrying about what others think of you. Because at the end of the day all the matters you, and your happiness
August 13, 2024 at 4:41 pm
Connor M
I changed my mind on my perceptive of time. I just started realizing how fast time is actually moving it’s crazy to think that I will already be a freshman in college and I’m no longer a little kid anymore. It feels as if it was yesterday I was just beginning to start high school and a new chapter in my life. But here I am 4 years later already starting college! Another milestone that I can already imagine how fast it’s going to go with another 4 years gone with the snap of my fingers. As my football coach once said my freshman year these next 4 years are going to fly by faster than you could ever think. He then started to cap his hands with every clap representing a year and a new milestone that would go by. He was right here. I am overwhelmed. It’s all over and I’m onto the next chapter. I believe that this summer I just started realizing that time is moving faster than I have ever felt it before. As the days keep moving on and I say I have more and more time for something to be done and before I know it I am running out of time and there is only a day or two left before something I have to do needs to be done. Or if I’m hanging out with friends it seems as if the 5 hours only lasted 5 minutes and the day is all over. This rapid time speed is making me enjoy each day more and more knowing that it will be gone sooner than I know and it will be in the past and I will be onto the next day. As time keeps moving and new journeys ahead of me keep popping up my goal is to enjoy every moment and memories I make as the days go on as I look forward to many new opportunities.
August 27, 2024 at 12:16 pm
I feel as if time passes by way faster now too. It’s like the older I get the faster time moves. I can remember being a freshman dreading that I have 4 more years and now we are going into our first year of college.
August 13, 2024 at 6:34 pm
After my whole high school experience, I began to believe the importance of living in the moment. The biggest example of this is through my friends. Throughout my life, friends came and went. Someone who you believe to be your best friend could take a step into the wrong path and become distant. I’m confident this has happened to almost everyone in their high-school years, but it’s made me think back to those people. Now, it’s inevitable that something like that will happen in your life, and that’s why I’ve realized the importance of soaking in every moment with your friends, family or even at a certain place, because you really don’t know when the last time you are going to hang out with them is. Especially with COVID-19 cutting my 8th grade year short, there are some really good friends that I have not spoken to since then. And that makes me think back to the times that we had and realize that won’t ever happen again. And reminiscing about those moments, you realize certain things you could’ve done differently to preserve your time together. Sometimes I remember being glued to my phone and not taking part in the group’s activities. And now, the only thing to remember about those people or events, are pictures and videos, while the people you made those memories with, could be gone forever. So next time you’re hanging out with your friends, take a step back and think, “Could this be the last time?”.
August 13, 2024 at 7:50 pm
Cameron L.
Living in the moment is essential to living life to the fullest…sometimes.
As move in day is only a couple weeks away, I become eager to meet new people and make lifelong connections. But if I were to ask people, “Would you rather spend 6 hours doing schoolwork or partying?” I would assume literally everyone would rather go out and party. What many people don’t say but is more often true than not, is that what makes people feel the most fulfilled is running up their dopamine receptors, feeling euphoric, essentially “living in the moment”. It’s normal, it’s human nature. But there’s another thing that everyone has, even if they don’t know it, and that is purpose. I strongly believe that everyone on this Earth was placed here to complete a life goal, or create an impact. But to achieve a long term goal, a large chunk of focus must be placed on that goal. Achieving things that are hard to get more often than not does not have an exhilarating path, therefore making a decent chunk of your time “boring”. I believe that living in the moment should not be placed as a 24/7 mindset, because then achieving a long term goal can be near to impossible, as your mind will constantly be set in the present moment. I believe in longevity, and if that means sacrificing fun and not having leisure be the end goal, then so be it. I’m not saying that having fun is a spawn of the devil. I think everything in life needs balance, especially between leisure, downtime, work, etc. But if you’re not going to dedicate time to pursue what you were put on this Earth to do, then why be here at all? Everyone has potential to be very successful, but to achieve that, the mind must be set towards the future at times.
August 13, 2024 at 9:30 pm
Colin W
Growing older has taught me much about the passing of time and living in the moment. If you don’t take time to create good memories with your loved ones, then it feels like time can just zip past you. Electronics are definitely the biggest culprit of this, I’ve found that using them too much in, say, a week, can lead to that whole entire week feeling non-existant to future you. And that can quickly stack up the more weeks in a row you spend like this. Sadly, the moment I had this realization was only recently while on a vacation to Canada with my family. While on this vacation, I realized that my first instinct when I arrived at the vacation house was to go up to my room and play games on my phone, despite me having done that the whole car trip there already.
Once I realized that, I put it down and went and spent time with my whole family, and made my best effort to continue that trend for the rest of the vacation. Although the temptation to use my phone is strong sometimes, from that point onwards, I knew I needed to make a change, and so I’m trying my best to do so. And I feel like everyone that relates to me should try the same. As hard as it is, especially for introverts like myself, it’s important to at least try. No matter how strong the urge is, always remind yourself to put the damn phone down, because it could change your life!
August 13, 2024 at 9:39 pm
Marron S.
I happened to stumble across a 9/11 documentary and learned what happened that day in detail when I was about 7. At a young age I really became self-aware that we as human beings could really die at any time. Natural disasters, car accidents, pandemics, even dying in your sleep. We never know what could happen in the next day, hour, even minute. I chose to live in the moment I knew how to. I regularly acknowledge & appreciate what I have in the present moment.
As we enter a new stage of our lives heading to college, it’s important that we practice living in the moment. We live in the age of distraction so by focusing on the present, it can lead to reducing stress and anxiety, which often stems from dwelling on past regrets or worrying about the future. I feel like people often focus on what’s missing or uncertain in their lives. When people live in the moment, they develop a better appreciation for their current and past experiences and relationships. Engaging with current experiences allows you to appreciate the “simple things” and find joy in everyday activities. Mindfulness also supports better decision-making. People are less likely to be swayed by emotional prejudices or impulsive reactions, leading to more thoughtful and deliberate choices. Enjoying the present helps build resilience by encouraging you to address challenges as they come, rather than being stuck by what-ifs.
However I also think living in the moment is a skill that takes time to develop. From now on, if you haven’t already, we should all start living in the present, not the past nor future. Let us shift our focus from what’s beyond our control to what we can fully experience and influence.
August 13, 2024 at 9:45 pm
Alexa Gelman
The only way that I have been able to live in the moment, is making sure I never look too hard on the past, or thinking too much about the future. Every day is a new beginning, a chance to take advantage of the one and only life that we are given, so why not live each day in the way that you want it to be? I had the choice of moving to a whole new state for my senior year of high school, and I made that choice because of the benefits that came with it. Although, I had no choice but to live in the moment there. Every day was a new day, but yet it just felt repeated, because it was the same schedule everyday; school, work, eat, sleep, repeat. Except I did not look at it in that way. I enjoyed every second that I had left of my senior year because I knew that if I jumped ahead or fell behind and did not live in the moment, I would have never fully taken advantage of the life I am given before this new and upcoming life and responsibilities that it comes with. As I approach this new chapter of my life, I am going to make sure I am always living in the moment and enjoying the life that I was given, even more.
August 16, 2024 at 12:50 am
I totally agree with feeling like everyday was on repeat. It was difficult to enjoy the time when I felt like I was stuck in a loop. But now that I have finished that time in my life I regret not enjoying it as much as I should have. I definitely agree and will try to enjoy this new experience in college.
August 13, 2024 at 9:51 pm
Alex P
Time is something that cannot be bought, it is also something that cannot be given back. Today we are consumed by technology, from phones, to gaming consoles, everyone’s guilty. Even my mom, she has an absurd amount of time on a mobile game each week. I’m also not here to say technology is bad, sometimes it is a great way to escape reality, we all need a break every once in a while. In my experience there were 3 summers I spent in my house playing video games, sitting on my phone and today I wish I hadn’t. I could make the excuse that I didn’t have a car but I can recall being invited out multiple times and not going anywhere. This past summer is the most active I’ve ever been. I find myself a lot happier, and enjoying the moment. I say find a balance, put the phone or game down more often than not. Spend time with family and friends, say yes if you’re asked to go out. If you ever find yourself wasting away ask yourself what’s one thing you could do that’s at least productive in that moment.
August 13, 2024 at 10:34 pm
Erik Ranz
For years I have questioned my existence on earth. Specifically when It comes to power and subjugation of people. I feel as if we are entrapped in what we are meant to do, and we live only to die. We spent our childhood learning in a school, only to be asked the life-long question of “What do you want to be when you grow up?” For most of us, we’d probably say something like astronaut, or race car driver. But for the 0.1% of those who have the ambition, the drive and the mentality, have their goal in mind, and they will stop at nothing to achieve that goal.
I have always thought that being wealthy was something that came with luck or family. But in reality, it is completely different. Success is gained through discipline and consistency. To be successful, you must first go through the pain and suffering of working towards that goal, and if you stop or give up at any point, failure is imminent.
That said, anybody can achieve anything as long as they give enough effort towards their goal, despite what other people say. In a college setting, you should always put 100% effort towards your major, and your work since this is still early in your life, and you could be anything you want to be as long as you put your mind to it. In conclusion, success is earned not given. Prosperity can be achieved by anyone. You just have to want it more than everyone else.
August 14, 2024 at 12:37 am
Logan A
A belief that I once had was that in order to be successful in life I would have to go above and beyond. That I would need to give my everything and make huge sacrifices. This was because my understanding of success at the time was being rich and making a name for myself. This is a belief of mine that changed not due to any one single defining moment, but rather due to seeing others suffer from this belief. The problem that some people have when striving for great riches and fame is that they forget to stop and enjoy it. They keep going for more and never get the chance to enjoy what they already have. I used to have the same problem (minus the fame and definitely not anywhere rich). I would try to strive for perfection and try to be the best which would only drain me of my joy and energy. But I came to the gradual realization that I was much happier just taking it easy. Spending time enjoying hobbies instead of trying to be someone I wasn’t. Which brought me to my new belief that success comes from happiness. It’s ok to not be known, and not have wealth. What’s important is that you allow yourself to enjoy life one day at a time.
August 14, 2024 at 2:03 am
Xuexin Z
Living in the moment is a concept I have come to value and cherish, though this is a much more recent change than some might think. I didn’t use to feel like this, in fact, I was the complete opposite of this mindset and would solely confine myself to my home. It would be very rare for me to go out unless it was with my family for dinner or to the supermarket. For the longest time, I had never really felt the call of adventure that others close to me felt and embraced through their travels around areas of Quincy and Boston. I knew that I wanted to be out there with them deep down, but I never was and believed that I would only be bothering my friends if I was to join them. But this was no way to live and I knew that, and I knew that I had to make a change right then and there. I didn’t want to let life pass by me anymore and miss all of these fun and important moments with my closest friends. So I started to join my friends on their outings more and I had a major realization of just how much I had missed out on. The thrill of adventure and taking chances was so amazing and what truly made it so important to me was that I was with people who I had and still consider to be my closest friends. This realization has completely changed my way of life for the better and I don’t think I could have been able to get to where I am today without it. I can’t wait to see all of the adventurous and exciting opportunities that I will get to experience here at Umass Dartmouth with my old friends and the new ones to come.
August 14, 2024 at 2:50 am
Laryssa D
When I was younger, I believed that my life would be so much better after I grew up. I thought that I would have more fun and not a care in the world. I assumed I would not have to listen to anyone. But then, I started to grow up. Every year school got harder and the workload was more. Every year I had more responsibilities at home. Every year I had to act more and more like an adult. I got stressed about a lot of things, like upcoming projects, tests, and especially presentations. I was stressed about having to this and that and so many things at once. I realized that I felt so bad and uncomfortable, that I didn’t enjoy the special moments I had with friends and family. I was too worried about that test due the next day, or the homework that I still haven’t done, and wasn’t cherishing what I had right in front of me. So, I decided that I wasn’t going to worry anymore. I wasn’t going to feel that discomfort or the uneasy feeling that was deep down. I wanted to feel free. Then something inside of me clicked, telling me that everything will be okay and will work in the end and it was okay to have moments with my friends and family. It was okay to put aside the responsibilities and just live in the moment. Have fun watching that movie with my friends and playing the board game with my family.
This is so important to me because my nervousness and anxiety about these things have diminished immensely because of how I have chosen to live my life. I think it is important for other people too because I see so many people who cannot enjoy their time because they are too busy worrying about what is going to happen later. I have had people come up to me and ask; “How do you do that?”. And honestly, I don’t know. It kinda just happened. The only response I can give to is go with the flow.
August 14, 2024 at 2:20 pm
I agree with this completely, it is better to live in the moment than to be stuck on responsibilities sometimes, this is what I strive for one day.
August 14, 2024 at 3:03 am
Ehikioya O
For most of my life, I thought success was about planning and preparation for the future. Being a Nigerian student who excelled in math and on his way to a computer science degree, I had always been thinking about the next step—how to get ahead and reach my goals. But then came that shattering piece of realization when I joined my Randolph high school basketball team about the importance of living in the moment.
I was in a really critical game, and I was thinking through every move, worried about the game’s outcome and what it would lead to in a future I wanted in that sport. I wasn’t performing in the best manner since my head was not on the court. Then, he pulled me aside and said, “Just play—be here now.” That simple advice shifted my perspective. I quit worrying about the scoreboard and began to focus on every dribble, every pass. We won the game, but more importantly, I learned the value of presence.
This is a belief in living full in the moment that I will bring to UMassD. It’s easy to get lost in future plans or past regrets, yet it’s when we’re fully engaged with the present that real growth and connection happen. I hope others in our community may view the power of this during a class, on the court, or just in everyday interactions. After all, what are we missing when we’re not really there?
August 14, 2024 at 10:57 am
Patrick M.
Ever since I was in middle school there is one belief that I have had. This belief goes along the lines of “Those who stay stuck in the past will not live long enough to see what they can become in the future.” This has always been a reminder for me that now matter how comfortable I feel in life at the time I should always leave room for curiosity. A great example of this was during the summer of my junior year. During this time I had a good job and later on my boss walked up to me and told me that if I wanted I could have kept working there and gotten more money and worked there full-time after I graduated. Originally when I was given this opportunity I thought I should have taken this opportunity because it was a comfortable way to live. I was just about to take the opportunity, but then I thought for a second and reminded myself of something. This job that I had was confirmed and would be there for me afterwards if I went to college and went after what made me curious. It is because of this belief to continue following my curiosity that led me here and without this I may not be here. Now my question is. If you were given the opportunity to be in a comfortable situation or be curious, which would you take?
August 14, 2024 at 11:29 am
Nour A.
When I was around 10 years old, I had yet to decide what I wanted to do in life and how I wanted to contribute to society. One day I was with a friend, riding our bicycles through town when we saw a baby bird that had fallen from its nest. We also saw a car coming in its direction, so we acted quickly, stopped the car, and picked up the helpless bird. We went around town, wondering what we were going to do in that situation. We went to the nearest store and bought some bird feed, and the bird ate it.
We were finally at ease when the bird stopped chirping wildly and was beginning to rest. We then went to the nearest vet where we learned that they weren’t allowed to take animals in that condition. I remember it angering me because this bird had no one but us to help it. we had no choice but to find a safe spot for the bird, where we built it a small, yet functional nest.
When I went home that day, I started to give that ordeal a bit of thought. I soon realized what I wanted to do in life, to become a Biologist and help any animals that are in the same situation as that bird. I call that “living in the moment” because I remember every detail of that event, and how it changed me to be a better person towards people and animals.
September 2, 2024 at 12:59 am
Such a good response to a tough problem.
August 14, 2024 at 1:44 pm
Anh P.
As we grow older, the concept of maturity becomes increasingly complex. While gaining legal independence at 18 may signal a milestone, true adulthood is a gradual process that extends far beyond that point. Even as we become self-reliant and pursue our goals, the pull of home and the need for the guidance and support of our loved ones remain strong.
My experience of visiting my own hospitalized mother illustrates this. Despite being “grown up,” I was overwhelmed with worry and reluctant to leave, realizing that even with age and independence, I still require the care of others. This humbling realization that we are no longer just children, but must be self-reliant and mature in our thoughts, is a crucial part of the journey.
Moreover, the unpredictability of life, as demonstrated by my memory of a neighbor who passed away at a young age, serves as a reminder to cherish the present. As children, we may have taken time for granted, but as adults, we learn to appreciate each moment and the opportunity to explore the world, pursue our goals, and be with the people we love.
The transition to adulthood is not a single event, but a gradual and often messy process. The weight of responsibility and the pressure to make the “right” choices can be overwhelming, yet it is in this struggle that we find the chance to truly grow, develop resilience, and gain the wisdom to navigate the complexities of adulthood.
August 14, 2024 at 2:56 pm
Jonathan C. 8/14/24
“You have the rest of your life to work” is a saying that my parents frequently used to convince me to take time off from my job and be social. Almost immediately after I turned sixteen I got my first job. The hours were okay, my coworkers were alright, but overall we were understaffed and it showed in our scheduling. I never had a set schedule for the two years I was employed there, sometimes I wouldn’t even find out I was working until an hour before I had to come in, and I was scarcely told what days I would have off. Even when we were given schedules we would never be able to reliably keep them, as our hours would be switched until the schedules were dropped entirely. It was an easy job, yet I made more than my fair share of mistakes, yet every time my boss let it slide, so I began to feel like I owed him, and soon work became my first priority. Since my work schedule was so liquid, I rarely ended up making plans with my friends, I only took time off when I had no other choice, and I built my life around my part-time job. Looking back it was stupid, but at the time I thought that was maturity. I didn’t realize how bad it had gotten until I started looking back on the past two years. I had missed out on all the sports I wanted to play, I hadn’t joined any clubs because I felt bad taking more time off work, and I had lost contact with a vast majority of my friends. I had spent two summers doing nothing but working. It was upon this realization that my parents’ phrase made sense, I have the rest of my life to prioritize work, instead I missed birthdays, graduations, even the passing of my own grandmother to work a minimum wage, part-time job all because it felt wrong to ask for days off. Speaking now from experience, I implore everyone to take the advice that I brushed off possibly a hundred times before. Focus on yourself now, because you have the rest of your life to work.
August 22, 2024 at 11:25 pm
I had a very similar experience to this when I got my first job I had become obsessed with working rather than enjoying any time off. I would often go in when I didn’t need to, but it got to a point where I was working close to 40 hours a week during school. By the time i quit that job I reflected and realized that I had missed out of some of those same experiences you had missed as-well. Thats why i agree with you that we need to found on ourselves and enjoy life while we are young.
August 14, 2024 at 3:49 pm
Living in the moment is something I have learned over the course of high school. As the world we live in can seem to move at a rapid pace, it’s easy to get caught up
in the constant planning for the future and dwelling over the past. Living in the moment is a concept that encourages us to fully live in the present and enjoy each experience you come across. Something I benefit from living in the moment is reduced stress. Focusing on the present allows me to worry less about the things are beyond our control. I believe that living in the moment helps me appreciate the things that often go unnoticed. In addition , I also believe that living in the moment enhances the relationship we are engaged in. Being fully present with the people around us helps build a more meaningful connection. Overall, living in the moment is about making the most of our time. It’s a practice that allows me to enjoy daily life and be more mindful of what’s actually around me. So take a deep breath, let go of distractions and live in the present moment.
August 14, 2024 at 5:04 pm
Jamauri jones
Living in the moment is a thing not a lot of people realize they didn’t do. Back in senior year I was forgetting to live in the moment of being a senior. I was so busy trying to apply to colleges and do my schoolwork and playing basketball that I forgot that I’m leaving high school next year. It didn’t really hit me until graduation day. I was going around asking people how does it feel that you’re leaving high school and they were saying to me you just have to live in the moment because because you were never get your high school experience back ever. After I heard that it opened my eyes a bit with a week left of school I decided to live in the moment of being a senior and never being able to come back to high school and moving on to college, which is a huge step but living in the moment could Also be a bad thing because because you might be stuck in that moment and never see your future. As humans we should all be progressing to the future and no longer looking back or worrying. What happened in the past. I believe that living in the moment is a good way to go about life sometimes when you’re stressed out especially or focused. because you’re focused on what’s going on in your life right now instead of what happened in the past or how your future is gonna look. If you work on yourself now or stay focused now that’s gonna change your future. Just don’t go thinking about your future when you can change it right now. The living in the moment choices you make in your life can make your future better or make it worse is how I see it. For example, if you want anything in life that you’re sending a goal for or trying to get. How would you go about it? Would you wait and live in a moment or go out and work for what you want?
August 14, 2024 at 5:51 pm
Derek L-
Throughout my life I have developed the belief that it is better to try to live in the moment as much as possible instead of always thinking about and stressing over things that have either already happened or might happen in the future. When I was younger, I spent a lot of time worrying about the things that were coming up in my life or over reflecting on my past experiences. That led to me missing out on enjoying the moments that were happening live and in person right in front of me. Instead of just enjoying spending time with my friends and family I would be off in my own little world thinking about hypothetical future scenarios and things that had happened in the past that were obviously impossible to change. As I reflect on my past now I think about how much more fun I would’ve had growing up if I had just lived in the moment and stopped stressing over things that were way ahead of me. In my senior year of high school I started to fully embrace the mentality of living in the moment and it was easily the most fun year throughout my entire high school experience. I enjoyed the year more because instead of only being half there while the other half of me was dreading something to come in the future, I instead decided to forget about whatever I was thinking about and just be there and live in the moment. This is a belief that I believe every person should try to have. Why stress the future when you have the present right in front of you. If you don’t live in the moment you just might miss something huge happening right in front of your face.
August 14, 2024 at 5:56 pm
Elinel G.
I used to believe that posting my life online for all to see was normal. If I went to Starbucks I had to post my order so that everyone could try it if they wanted to, or just so people can see that I actually do leave my house. But as I started getting older posting on social media felt like a chore. It didn’t feel authentic or like me at all. Was I truly posting because I wanted people to see I wasn’t just a boring nobody? Or was I posting because everyone else was posting? I always guess I just wanted to fit in. But now I realized that it doesn’t matter what you do, you will either be criticized or not. You can be trendy or out of style but it truly doesn’t matter. This year my resolution was to clean up my social medias and post my authentic self, whether it’s trendy or not. I realized that I have only started to do a good job at it after I graduated high school and just stopped caring as much. Let’s be real for a second, does anyone in your fourth period math class truly care what you posted on TikTok last night? Probably not, but sometimes you feel that they do and just don’t post. But now I only post if I know it’s something I don’t care to share with the world, and if I run into an old friend that saw it and wants to comment about it so be it. We just have to start to live in the moment and not care about what others will think of us hours after we make a post, it’s our social media and if they bother you on your page just block them, they don’t need to see your content that’s fine. Just live your life because only you can do it for you.
August 15, 2024 at 2:11 am
I relate to this a lot. I’ve felt like I couldn’t post certain things on social media because it wouldn’t get enough likes or it wasn’t trendy. Now I’ve just learned not to care because I shouldn’t be posting for other people, I should be posting for myself and what I want people to see. Everyone should be able to just be themselves and not have to accommodate society’s standards.
August 15, 2024 at 2:11 am
I relate to this a lot. I’ve felt like I couldn’t post certain things on social media because it wouldn’t get enough likes or it wasn’t trendy. Now I’ve just learned not to care because I shouldn’t be posting for other people, I should be posting for myself and what I want people to see. Everyone should be able to just be themselves and not have to accommodate society’s standards.
August 14, 2024 at 6:24 pm
Owen C
Over the course of this summer I have come to realize how important it is to live in the current moment. Ever since I was a child, I would always need something to look forward to, whether it is recess in elementary school, lunch in middle school, or a certain class that I had enjoyed. After my graduation, I had come to realize after some self reflection that I had taken my high school experience for granted, and that I had spent my experiences waiting for something that I enjoy, rather than experiencing what is already happening. I noticed that I would be obsessively thinking about the memories that I already made that I couldn’t appreciate the memories that were happening right in front of me. Living in the moment and practicing mindfulness also creates much more meaningful and genuine relationships with other people. Mindfulness allows you to give somebody else your full attention during a conversation and show empathy towards what they are talking about. If we are constantly worried about the future and constantly analyzing the past, then we wont able to appreciate the present. When living in the moment, it is much easier to focus on the thing that you are doing, and if you are focused then the end result is going to turn out better. Living in the moment creates an environment of peace and mental solitude and will do nothing but benefit your life.
August 15, 2024 at 1:45 am
I completely agree while old memories are important, Living in the moment and creating new memories and enjoying your life as it is right now is extremely important.
August 14, 2024 at 6:55 pm
KinKade Rubino
I tend to always think about the next chapter in my life. When I was in elementary school, I wanted to be in middle school. In middle school, I couldn’t wait to be in high school. Once I was a freshman in high school, I couldn’t wait to have that feeling of being a senior. Senior year came, and all I could think about was graduating and where I would go to college. My senior season of football started and I was in shock, that in the blink of an eye it was almost over. It was our first game of states and our coach told us to soak up every moment of being on that field, because we would never get that moment back. Instead of thinking of the team we were playing or what the first play of the game would be, I decided to stop, look around and live in the moment.
From this moment on, I knew how fast my senior year would fly by. Instead of worrying about the next thing that was going to happen, I started to live in the moment and focus on the present. I started to cherish each part of my life more than before. Living in the moment to me means enjoying what is happening right now because it won’t last forever. Throughout everything I’ve done from then until now, I was grateful for each experience and was able to appreciate everything a little more by living in the moment.
August 15, 2024 at 5:29 am
I agree with this completely on this. It is definitely better that we should be living in the moment, because when your living in the moment it won’t last forever.
August 14, 2024 at 7:04 pm
Madison C
I have always believed in “Living In the Moment”. I have come to realize how valuable time is and how we have to cherish every moment. I think we should always focus on the now rather than focus on the next. Living in the moment can help reduce stress and worries that we deal with day to day, focus on the good and reflect on things that make you happy whether it be what you did that day or what your doing later in the day. It’s important to be present and be excited for what’s to come rather than focusing and dwelling on the stress and fears you are dealing with.
August 14, 2024 at 9:02 pm
We often are way too focused on what’s next to come and how can we make our future self happy when we don’t realize how happy we could be if we cherished the little moments and lived in the moment. I like how you said “focus on the good and reflect on things that make you happy”. I have been working on this more and it’s really helped take the weight off my shoulders and worrying about my future when I can make memories by living in the moment!
August 14, 2024 at 7:15 pm
Rose M
I believe all art is beautiful. I was not always able to believe this though. It took years of love and compassion from myself and others to truly understand that all art is beautiful.
When I was young I worked so hard on my art but always hated everything I made. I drew everyday, and everyday I was angry that my art wasn’t as good as my older sister, or as good as the other older artist I had met in passing. When I was young I believed I would never be as good as my older sister. I believed my art was not beautiful. As I grew I worked so hard to be as good as my sister. I worked to make my art more meaningful, more beautiful. As good as the artist I’d seen around me. I started to realize I loved art more and more, any art, all art. I’d treasure any little piece of artwork a friend or family member gave me. No matter how hard they worked on it, how well it turned out. It showed me that I needed to learn how to love my own art like I loved theirs. And how to love myself the way they loved me. How to find beauty in something I didn’t believe was beautiful. Because to me it wasn’t the art that was beautiful, but why it existed that was beautiful. It was made for me, it was made to express love, to express caring, to represent a friendship. Because it doesn’t matter how good art looks; it matters why it was created.
Whether created to convey love and caring, or to prove your skill, or just for ‘funsies,’ all art is beautiful because it was created for a reason.
August 15, 2024 at 12:45 am
This is so beautiful to me, as I made this realization recently as well. I was always so confused as to how my loved ones perceived me as beautiful, when I did not look like the other women I’d consider beautiful. It was not until I read a poem one day that my brain finally made the realization. The poem stated something along the lines of “Look at a rose, then look at the sunset; even waves on a beach. They all look completely different, yet they are all beautiful. Now look in the mirror.” Your writing reminded me immediately of this poem, as it taught me self love, so thank you so much for the reminder.
August 14, 2024 at 7:32 pm
Samuel B
One thing that life has taught me is you cannot change the past, but you can control your future. I graduated from a vocational school with intentions of never going to college, never taking that “extra” path. For four years, I listened to my loved ones and my peers about what is the best road to go down with no intention of living for myself. The people I was surrounded by everyday had convinced me that I wanted to live a life that was not for me and to not “waste” money on college. So I listened and I had gotten a job working full time as a plumber and not once did I come home feeling fulfilled with where I was headed. I realized I was living for a dream for someone that wasn’t mine.
This past year has allowed me to self-educate and to learn to be grateful for what you have. Sure, I could’ve gone down that path and made great money, but I don’t live just for that. It has exposed me to important truths and a more healthy way of living, bringing me to tend to my body’s needs and to form new personal connections. It gave me the flexibility to embark on a wide range of endeavors and to not care about what way others are judging you. I am taking this chance on a new chapter in my book because someone came to me and asked me “Would you rather go to college?”. It sat and pondered in my head for weeks on end, and then It came to me when I had gotten home from work. I remember looking in the mirror with my head high and I applied right and then before the deadline had ended. I saw the true importance of where this can take me to. I’m committed because I didn’t want to live my life in regret of knowing what could’ve been. I’m taking this chance because I know it will lead me to make a more clear decision of what career path I’m choosing to pursue, and I now know that if I live in the moment, I can now trust myself.
People think “living in the moment” allows you to make irrational decisions that could fill you with regret another day, but I believe differently. I truly think it allows you to let go of the past and to not let yourself wait for the future. It means living your life consciously, aware that each moment you breathe is a gift. Now ask yourself, are you truly living in the moment or are you just living in derealization?
September 3, 2024 at 1:32 am
I really resonate with your blog, and think that you make a great point that we need to actually live in the moment rather than making irrational decisions by not thinking about the future. I love how you took that chance and applied to college because you did it for yourself, and not because somebody else told you. I admire your tenacity pursuit for happiness.
August 14, 2024 at 7:37 pm
Christian G
When I was young I would always worry about my future. I think my parents put the belief in me that I needed to be focused on whatever comes next rather than taking it one step at a time. This worked well for me because I had a relatively easy time growing up whether it was with school or life in general. I didn’t have much to worry about because I didn’t face much adversity and I felt like I could handle whatever came at me. This changed when I got into high school. I wasn’t necessarily worried about going into highschool or if I was going to do well, I was confident in that regard. My belief about living in the moment really developed during my time and experience during those four years. There were times that I was stressed out because of the heavy workload that I received for being in higher classes that my friends didn’t receive because they weren’t in the same class. I was stressed about who was going to be in my life or not, and especially how my future was going to play out. I kept looking ahead, and even behind me as I wished that I had cherished the time that had already passed. I felt this way for about a year, until one day I realized that there isn’t really any benefit to looking forward or backward in time. Things that have happened already happened, I had experienced it already and there wasn’t anything that I could do to change that. I also realized that I can’t predict the future, I have to let things happen as they come. When I developed this belief that I have to just appreciate what is going on around me at the moment my stress and my worrying began to ease up. I was able to take things one step at a time and really focus on what mattered. I don’t believe that there is any use worrying and stressing about what comes next, because whatever is supposed to happen will happen, and whatever doesn’t happen didn’t happen for a reason. It is very easy to get caught up looking ahead and behind, but the only thing you can control is the present.
August 14, 2024 at 8:32 pm
Sonny H
Living in the moment is a very important part in anyone’s life. Living inside your head or in the future or the past isn’t going to make anyone feel good. Living in the moment is the only way to experience the world, as it is, right now. Getting caught up in the mind isn’t something that will help, all it does is causes procrastination and overthinking. Throughout elementary, middle, and the beginning of high school, I lived inside my head because of my experiences early in life, once I figured out how to let go and leave my head and just live in the moment everything became so different. Instead of being limited by my mind, I’m limited by my surroundings and that’s it, no unnecessary overthinking. Living in the past is probably the worst thing to be done though. I’ve lived in the past most of my life and it has always made everything worse. The more I think about what could’ve been the more it hurts that it can’t be changed. So simply switching over to thinking about what is happening right now and what I need to be doing in this moment helped me see the world differently. By living in the past you are trapping yourself inside your memories of a world that can’t be changed. At least by only living in the future you know that you can one day you’ll be able to use what you’re working for, while living in the mind only allows you to think about what can be and what could be. After living in the past and in my head I realized I need a change and made that change happen, and now my head is clear and my I am in charge of my mind instead of the other way around.
August 14, 2024 at 8:57 pm
Tommy M
I have spent most of my life worrying about the future and what’s next to come. I have caused a lot of stress on myself thinking I’m not doing enough right now to help my future self. This past weekend I went on a camping trip and wanted to focus more on living in the moment and not anxious about anything else. Life is too short for that. I believe we have to embrace the little moments in life because in the blink of an eye it’s already over. When I was young I was always on the go with hockey and school. I have never gotten the chance to sit back and really enjoy what is in front of me. This past camping trip has really changed my perspective. Enjoying the beauty in the nature, fire’s, sunsets and much more truly made me happy. I wasn’t worried about anything else because I was so focused on how great this life can be if we just lived in the moment more often. There was not a worried bone in my body and I felt more at peace than I ever have before. I believe being stressed about the future can really tear people apart because we don’t realize that happiness is more important than anything else. This trip was a realization to not dwell on what’s to come but to enjoy every little moment in life because worrying about the next stages in your life can truly place a heavy weight on your shoulders. This trip was a real lookout for me to focus more on making memories and being happy by living in the moment and not focused on the upcoming events in my life.
August 14, 2024 at 10:34 pm
Fabio R
I believe that living in the moment is what everyone needs to do every once in a while, to take a little bit of time and just take in everything around them, acknowledge everyone. I’ve realized during this summer that the days fly by and the nights just disappear. Only in July did I start to live in the moment and appreciate everything. Every second I’m home I think how its been my home for so many years and I’m going to have to start a knew way of living really soon. In the winter I was counting down the days of school left until summer, and now how many days until school starts again, how many hours until the next day. I never slowed down to live in the moment, I always lived ahead and lived thinking about the future but the closer September first approaches I’ve started to think about the next morning or the next meal I have. Living in the moment for even just a couple minutes can give you the clarity and peace and enjoyment you need. It can bring you together with your thoughts.
August 14, 2024 at 10:41 pm
Christopher Moniz
Throughout the last few years of high school, I struggled with the belief that I needed to plan every moment of my life. Every day I would constantly try to figure out what I was trying to accomplish in my life. By graduation, I still never had a plan set out for myself. With 4 years of schooling past, 2 of which were during lockdown I noticed that I had wasted a majority of my time being cooped up not being productive or enjoying my life. During those few years, I had never really lived in the moment rather I focused on the next grade and never focused on myself, my family, and my friends.
A pivotal point in my life was during my last year of high school when I lost my grandfather who helped me every step of the way. With his passing, I came to terms with the time I had spent with him growing up. Many days and weeks were spent reflecting on our time shared, I noticed that I had taken so much of our time for granted, saying to myself “There will always be next time”. But there was never a next time. This experience gave me a new perspective on life. I never want to take the time I was given with the people I care about for granted I want to cherish every moment like it’s the last.
After this loss, I spent my time working but also enjoying even the roughest of moments at work and outside of it. I Enjoyed every last moment with friends family, and co-workers. Those experiences for better or worse changed my perspective on life. Giving me a new outlook to live each passing moment as if it’s your last. This mindset can powerful tool to have in each person’s life as living in the moment can improve ones happiness even in the worst of times.
August 14, 2024 at 10:47 pm
Brianna B.
I didn’t always believe in ‘Living in the Moment’. I never really understood that until I was 14/15 years old. At the time covid was still very alive, I didn’t have much to do with my free time besides staying in the house. So, to take up that extra time I had, I started to read a lot. And with that I started to take aesthetically pleasing photos to capture that. And to further my curiosity of doing this I would take walks, I would take any picture of something pretty; like the leaves changing. I enjoyed car rides a lot more than I already did. It was weird at first but it helped me enjoy things a lot more. Some people walk around in life complaining that it’s so bad and say they hate doing the same routine over and over again. I used to be that person, but as someone said, “You can’t control everything in life, but you do have control of how you view your situation”.
Romanticizing my life was one of the best things that have happened to me. It gave me a new perspective and brought peace.
August 14, 2024 at 11:04 pm
I believe the saying “Living in the Moment” isn’t really cherished enough or understood.
It took me a while to understand this saying over the years because our lives were taken over by electronics, and social media like TikTok, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, etc. All these things divert our attention from actually living the moment and being in the present. I decided this summer to just spend less time on my phone and enjoy my summer before college starts because I know how stressful college can be.
I started to notice how much better things were when I spent less time on my phone and enjoyed everything I did. I did activities like go to the zoo in providence, level 99, Dave and busters for my first time ever, and many more activities. I also did activities like go to the beach or spend my afternoons there from time to time and enjoy the beach.
I noticed how much peace and joy this brought to me rather than my phone because all my phone did was bring me stress and anxiety because I was so focused on seeing how others perceived me or trying to keep up with everyone on my phone when that wasn’t necessary at all.
Yes it’s good to check on everyone from time to time and catch up but it’s also good to divert your attention off your phone and just live the moment in peace with friends or on your own.
September 1, 2024 at 4:34 pm
I wish this could apply to everyone. To have them no longer glued to their phone and just experience whats happening around them. I remember going to an amusement park and getting really confused on why someone was just sitting on the bench scrolling on instagram, when they could be enjoying the experience that they paid for.
August 14, 2024 at 11:07 pm
Aryan G
Growing up in what feels like two different worlds has molded me to the person I am today. I’m only 18 but it feels like I lived an eternity of 2 different lives. March 1″ 2006 I was born in Irvine California, my mom is Cambodian and my father is Haitian. Cambodia is a country in Asia and Haiti is a country in the Caribbean. For half my life I grew up with my mom and that side of the family. I lived in Santa ana with my grandma, mom, and a bunch of my cousins. I was the only really dark colored person on my mother’s side of the family. This being the case since a kid I always had to deal with teasing, slight comments, or playful comments, this forced me to develop a tough layer of skin at a young age. Weather it was from family members, friends, or even random people I always took it as just jokes. I like to compare my life to a layered fruit, a pomegranate has multiple layers to it, kind of how I see how I am. For most if not all my toddler life I grew up with strong Asian culture things like going to praying to Buddha, eating Asian dishes, and being a monk for a day when someone dies is all things I’ve experienced. 2014 I came to Massachusetts, a whole new state where I can start a whole new life. I was 9 at the time I haven’t fully grasp the fact that I just went across the U.S yet. The first place we went after we landed the first place, we went to was my aunts house. My dad and his sister are very close, they are each others problem solvers, this showed me that you should have that one person you can go to for whatever life throws at you. I didn’t have one at the time especially being in a new state. Eventually that person for me became my big cousin Nathan, he is my dad sister’s son we instantly clicked day one. As time went on being around my dad side of the family gave me more layers to myself culturally and mentally. The foods are completely different compared to each other, Asian cuisine is nothing like Haitian cuisine. I’ve got to try different food I never thought I would’ve eaten as a child in California. The religious beliefs were different also, here my family has Catholic beliefs, going to a regular church and not a temple was different for me the first time. I did my first communion where I take in the body of Christ threw bread. Myself I’m not a religious person but it was interesting to experience the totally different religious aspects people have on life. This taught me to be more open minded when it comes to people’s beliefs. When my grandma passed on my fathers side, I got to experience a more traditional funeral going to a church having a priest read some bible verses and then having the burial. I’ve lived what feels like two different life times. In both “lives” I got to not only see but experience so many life lessons and try new things. I’m still extremely young and some might say my life hasn’t even started yet but I disagree, I’ve done a lot of life in my short 18 years on this planet so far.
August 15, 2024 at 12:33 am
Reina A
Many people think that to be special you need insane talent or skill, or maybe you’re loved by everyone and exceptional at everything. Sometimes I imagine a person, a shining star in the center of a stage smiling down at adoring fans who scream their name. Surely that’s someone who is special. In high school, when a big part of what drove us was social hierarchy, I’m not ashamed to say that I thought what made you special was the kind of people you surround yourself with and the stellar grades you got. Despite the fact that I loved my friends and was content with the grades I got, I wouldn’t go as far as to consider myself special. But this summer, I read a book that completely changed that. Essentially, the protagonist was someone who thought that no one in the world was special and we all tried and pretended to be so life would have some sort of meaning. His perspective was very annoying. By the end of the story, he had not actually fully changed his way of thinking. And because of my distaste for the protagonist’s ideas, I began to wonder what then made me special. I challenged his way of thinking and in turn changed my own. I realized that I didn’t actually care about being incredibly special or unique as long as I have what makes me happy, and the moments in my life that make my life unique to me.
August 15, 2024 at 12:40 am
Aisha A.
What “living in the moment” means to me, is the thought process of not dwelling on the past nor worrying about the future. It’s the act of being in the present and enjoying the things around you for what they’re worth. Having this type of mindset can greatly benefit your mental health. You start to become more aware of your surroundings, appreciating the little things and putting all of your energy into bettering your life. However, many people struggle with appreciating the things right in front of them. Because of this, many teens and young adults deal with anxiety and overthinking. Overthinking is spending too much time dissociating and thinking about past events that bothered them or future outcomes. This pattern can make it really difficult to live in the moment when you’re constantly thinking about “what could’ve been”. Anxiety is based on fear for no particular reason. It’s this uneasy feeling that something bad is going to happen when in reality you’re just in your head. A time I had anxiety was during the whole month of May. The Days leading up to my high school graduation made me feel very nervous. I particularly felt this way because I was scared of the future and what life was like after high school. After spending my summer reflecting and accepting that high school is over I’ve grown to not let anxiety control my life and affect a happy day with a negative outlook. Because of overthinking and anxiety.You can miss out on so many opportunities just like that. Our life is passing by every second, it wouldn’t hurt to enjoy it while it lasts.
August 15, 2024 at 12:50 am
Emily L
When I was younger I remember that all I wanted to be able to do is be able to have conversations with the ‘big kids’. I wanted to fit in and be the one that everyone loves and wants by their side while they walk through life. I believe this is when my anxiety and nervousness first started. I have always been worried about what others have thought about me. To me it seems like every waking moment is crucial to what I can do to make others like me more. I am aware of all cameras that could be facing me to make sure I look good enough or I’m sitting properly or I get out of all frames just in case. Because of this I feel as though I have missed at least a dozen moments that I wish I could have been apart of. Sure I was there, but I wasn’t in the moment, I probably couldn’t even tell you what happened or how it happened. As I get older I have come to realize that to be in the moment, one must put other things aside to focus on what might just be an important moment in your own or someone’s life. Taking time to reflect on the important moments in life I try to focus on all the good things that happen rather than the bad ones. For example, when my little sister, Jolene, was born all I can remember is holding her the day after she was born and crying because she was finally here. What I choose not to remember is how upset I was when she was brought to the NICU and I was not allowed to see her as I was thirteen years old and the age you had to be was fourteen because of the sicknesses going around. Times like these are when we as a world need to realize that there will always be things going on in our personal lives that may seem hard or sad, but there are always good things to focus on, love, family, or friends who need you to be a light in a world that can be so dark sometimes. Taking time to realize a moment is something that you will remember forever is something that has changed my outlook on life and appreciate what is right in front of me that makes me happy.
August 15, 2024 at 12:53 am
Brady M
For me, Living in the Moment is more complicated than just “seek out adventure”. Living in the moment also means fully enjoying and appreciating your current moment, whatever it may happen to be. Life is short and wildly unpredicatble, nothing truly lasts, and that’s okay. It just means that every moment you live, you have to appreciate it. Because you can never get it back. No matter how mundane or boring, enjoy it while you have it. Simply enjoying you current moment has a way with providing opportunities you never knew you wanted.
There was a period of time recently where I thought my life was over. I was stuck in the same ruts, the same patterns over and over again, and too afraid to step outside my own close boundaries. I had lost a great majority of my close friends in what felt like only a week. I realized there was little i could do to immediately directly change my current moment, so I instead opted to try and simply enjoy the current moment more. I reached out and reconnected with some older, more distant friends, and immediatley we began clicking harder than ever. They introduced me to more of their own friends, and in only a few months i had completely rebuilt a new circle of friends. Through just simply trying to enjoy my current moment, I had created a new and even better moment. Living in the moment means so much more than what people think it means.
August 15, 2024 at 12:55 am
Luke D
A Lesson in Resilience
It was my third varsity start, and the stakes were high as we faced our annual rivalry game against Londonderry in front of 6,000 spectators. After a week of intense excitement and anticipation, I ended up delivering the worst performance of my career. With three fumbled snaps and repeated failures to block my man, we lost the game by 25 points. Most of the blame fell on me.
The next morning, Coach announced changes were on the horizon. By Monday’s practice, I was no longer the starting center but was shifted to backup tackle—a position I had never played before. The reality of my performance hit hard during that practice; not taking reps with the varsity squad left me feeling lost and uncertain about my future on the field.
Anger at my performance fueled a deep resolve. I refused to let this game define my season. That Friday, I seized an opportunity to play defense against a strong team. My performance was solid enough to earn starting reps in practice, and within two weeks, I secured a starting spot as a defensive tackle. From that point on, I never looked back, improving weekly and becoming a key player by season’s end.
The following year, as a senior, I started on both sides of the ball at tackle. During our next rivalry game, I achieved redemption, playing the best game of my life and securing a win.
This historic failure and the subsequent lessons taught me to appreciate every opportunity. It marked a turning point, making me realize how fortunate I was in football and in life. As I head to college, I’m more grateful and determined to make the most of every opportunity for a successful future.
August 15, 2024 at 12:58 am
Julian Fopiano
The last week before coming to school early for sports was surreal to say the least. Walking around the house that I lived in for 18 years of my life, looking at the same old pictures, furniture, and especially the same old faces of my parents and siblings, made me feel anything but happy knowing that in just a few days I would be leaving them. Now, I only will be visiting home, visiting the faces i love and cherish and hold so close. But that only made me think of the future, of the friends I will make, the paths I will walk, and the opportunities that will arise from hard work and a unrelenting attitude to not be afraid of the future and what it holds. Thinking of my family made me start to think, of course cherish the memories you have made and be grateful for what has been, but be cheerful for the future and what that holds. I think i will do great things in my time here, and having my family a phone calls away will help me to lock it back in and stay present, stay in the moment, as i find a familiar voice often helps with the longing for home. Being present is the name if the game, especially at college and especially playing a sport. I learned this today on my move in day, as i stayed present with my family today when they were helping me move in, knowing that it will be awhile till i see them again. Living in the moment, that is all there is, the moment and the living.
August 15, 2024 at 1:20 am
Kevin S
I believe in living in the moment because when you’re too busy thinking about the past and future it tends to unfold before you without taking action. I see learning to live in the moment also helps reduce stress and frees you from things like anxiety. When I find myself in the present, I feel more gratitude towards the things and people around me.
August 15, 2024 at 1:28 am
Dylan Moitoso
As I’m soon to start college, one belief that I’ve realized was important is living in the moment. When I was younger, I was often sitting in my room thinking about the future, cautiously planning for the different possibilities and worrying about what’s going to happen next. This mindset, while it seems very smart, would often leave me to overthink and make me feel anxious and disconnected from the present. The turning point came during my sophomore year summer of high school with my friends. With no set plans and the difficulty of not having a car now, we were forced to enjoy the unpredictability of our city. We would go on bike rides from one side of the city to the other, explore hidden trails in the woods, go on long walks sharing stories and laughing until our sides hurt. These experiences opened up my eyes. As I started to realize how much I should appreciate these moments. Since then, I’ve tried to make an effort to appreciate the moment more. I started to be more aware and mindful, which helped me appreciate the small joys of everyday life, like going on long walks, enjoying nature, and the memories made. As I start my first semester of college, this belief will be my guide. College life will easily be filled with obstacles and opportunities, and I want to experience those moments fully. By living in the moment. This mindset will help me guide ahead with appreciation of the joys of life.
August 15, 2024 at 1:39 am
Jesse Okocha
Growing up I believed that everything I did would come easily to me and that I would easily overcome anything thrown at me. Obviously that belief isn’t true and I had to learn that fact early into my High School career. My freshman year was placed during Covid-19 so a majority of that year was spent in my room looking at a computer with Teachers talking. Believing this would be way easier than actually being at school I proceeded to slack off and honestly not pay much attention to the lessons being discussed. Because of this mistake the following quizzes and exams showed me how much more difficult High School was to Middle School. After the results were posted onto my report card I realized that I needed to change my line of thinking. Starting Sophomore year I did my homework, I gained advice from my friends. This line of thinking didn’t only apply to only school however as I also applied this to sports. I started to practice harder than before, I went to the offseason and I studied the plays and opposing teams. Fast forward to me writing this essay for college I remember the all the hardships that I had to go through before I could even step foot in a college like this, If I kept my old mindset of thinking everything would come easy and I would be find no matter what would happen I don’t even know if I would be able to attend college. Yet here I am ready to spend 4 years at Umass Dartmouth.
August 29, 2024 at 8:27 pm
I completely agree with the comment you made, “Growing up I believed that everything I did would come easily to me.” I found myself in the past similarly having that same mindset, and I think you presented a nice message about trying harder and creating an endeavor in an attempt to reach your goals, instead of living carelessly as if everything in life is guaranteed to come.
August 15, 2024 at 1:40 am
Zach D
After I found the true depth of Time I came to believe that our generation needs to lean away from technology and spend more time outdoors with family and friends and just in reality as a whole. The amount of calmness nature can give us is huge compared to being stuck on a screen. This means actually spending time in it and enjoying life as a whole. Nowadays we focus on making sure our presence on social media is profound and focus on things that have little to no effect on our lives, Times like these are something that pass and we can never get back and constantly being on our phones and other devices allow this to happen in a blink of an eye. Being involved constantly with technology can dampen your view on things around you, It may make you miss out on important conversation with people who will eventually be gone, These are the most important conversations that you can have and most times give you insight on something you’ve always wondered about. Living in the moment makes your presence available in real time, it allows you to create new relationships or even work on the ones you already have. I guess my message is to get off the phone and other electronics and spend time with the people who care most for you because you never know what can happen. Things really do happen in a blink of an eye and they can happen to anybody and everybody. So take that extra 10 minutes to have a conversation, take 10 minutes to help someone, take 10 minutes to work on yourself.
August 15, 2024 at 1:52 am
Matthew S
What is it like to be without your phone for a few hours? Are you itching to get back to it, text your friends, or consume social media? The addiction that has developed in the youth has caused a disconnect from “living in the moment”. I have developed the belief that the best memories are created when a phone doesn’t exist. Time away from the burden of constant social connection allows for true freedom. Continuous stimulation that a phone provides leads to less deep and meaningful relationships or experiences. There is a developing issue of poor social skills, health, and depression.
Living in the moment is becoming a rare experience. Everyone wants to take a video or post a picture for everyone to see. Constant notifications paired with apps designed to devour and consume the user’s time creates distance between real personal connections. Social media allows for constant and easy leisure, limiting the attention spans which will cause more damage than we can predict. Less and less kids are outside playing and learning valuable life lessons. Throughout my life the best memories have developed through sport or simply hanging out with my friends. It’s hard to take a step back and really appreciate what’s going on but when it happens, you learn to appreciate every little moment. Moments like jumping on top of your teammates after a championship win or having friends over and playing games for hours are experiences I will never forget because I truly appreciate them. Living in the moment allowed these times to hold such greater value and resonate with me because there were no existing distractions.
Being connected to your environment makes for true life experience. Without the disturbance of everyday emails and other notifications, a better memory is created and will be cherished more deeply. No more of this fake satisfaction that the phone creates. Sure, it might not be easy, it might even be uncomfortable but try to live in the moment. It is a purer form of happiness. Just think when you pick up your phone, what am I missing out on?
August 31, 2024 at 2:14 am
This resonates with me on a deep level. When I am with my friends, we have a no phones rule so that everyone is fully engaged in what we are doing and having the best time possible!!
August 15, 2024 at 2:06 am
Adella M
In life, you have to make decisions. Stay in or go out? Spend money or save money? Go to class or don’t go to class? Everyone faces choices daily, but would you rather live with regret or have amazing memories to share? Play it safe or live on a blazing path you are proud of.
Just recently I lost a close family friend unexpectedly. She spread so much wisdom, peace, and joy, impacting whoever she met. When I was in middle school I lost my favorite Aunt to cancer. She pushed me to let loose and be free. They both were kind and compassionate, fun and fierce, the best people to be around. They taught me so much, but one thing I will take away from their losses is the importance of living life without regrets.
We only have one life, so live it. Be in the moment, embrace the challenges, and appreciate all you have. You only live once. You can’t dwell on the past or let worries of the future cripple you. Do what makes you happy, and brings you joy. Everyone should have the chance to make mistakes to learn and grow from them, but not everyone is able to, so take advantage. Don’t be overly prideful and accept help and advice from others. Let the stress go and take in the beauty of life.
I can’t wait to take on my next four years of life at UMass Dartmouth. What kind of path will you live?
August 15, 2024 at 2:15 am
Jayla A
Lliving in the moment is a belief that I feel most come to as an adult. When you were a child, we lived in the moment so innocently without a thought crossing our minds. Nowadays everything is based on social media, people aren’t having those little moments like eating dinner with family or friends, having conversations about how each other’s day went, taking walks and enjoying the scenery, etc… What seems to be the norm is pulling out phones, seeing what the next person posted on social media or watching TikTok to know what’s trending
For me it’s the party that the group of friends forgot to record because it was too much fun to walk away from and share, only becoming just a memory, the sounds of nature when you are taking a walk, it’s the one-on-one interactions, having someone’s complete attention without any distractions from electronics
It is quite easy to blame society when everything is online, and people use their online space as an outlet to share moments and experiences. Most people need technology for as little as just waking up in the morning so did, we ever have a moment to live in the present?
We tend to want to live in the moment so why is it that phones/ technology is always the thing in front of us? Why do we feel the need to capture the moment 24/7 or watch others express their view through a picture or video of them living in the moment? But who is there to blame society for it or us?
August 15, 2024 at 3:01 am
Christopher D
“Life is not about the destination but the journey”, a quote famously attributed to the American philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson. However, it’s often overlooked for its depth presenting a profound perspective on the nature of experiences and growth. Emerson encourages us to shift our attention away from our destinations but instead, the goals accomplished, milestones reached, or challenges prevailed. Ultimately, finding meaning in the process itself. Life is enveloped by unpredictability, constantly navigating through perturbations and changes that disrupt our expectations. I’ve often found myself dwelling on the past and future, contemplating numerous decisions relatively concerning the subsequent years after university or the present to it. Senior year of high school and even at this very moment, I’m ambiguous regarding my true aspirations, struggling to identify a distinct passion or focus that aligns with a specific professional trajectory. Obsessing over possible outcomes, living up to expectations, the fear of making mistakes, and ruminating about the inexorable future, is an innate aspect of human nature but can be disregarded with optimistic resilience. Sanguine assurance equipped me with said resilience alongside perseverance which helped me grow past life’s uncertainties and adapt to change. Learning to adapt is crucial as change is often inevitable. Transitioning into college for instance bears a plethora of apprehensions concepted by self-doubt or pessimistic beliefs. Believing in your own ability to persevere and overcome difficulties that obstruct the progression of your goals, irrespective of the complexity or intensity of the journey, catalyzes an individual’s mental fortitude in response to rumination.
August 15, 2024 at 4:00 am
AlexanderC:
I believe that every part has its moments and weather or not you notice them at that time. Many times I look back at my life and realize all the small details I have forgotten or missed out on, not that this is a bad thing more funny to me than anything because it goes to show that no matter what happens in our life we always have something to look back on and things to look forward too but it’s what’s happening at that moment that you experience and live through. When we live our life we should always be in the moment and not thinking of what will or wont happen, that’s how I live my life at least
August 15, 2024 at 4:00 am
Hue P
“Living in the moment” is a term that I didn’t embrace until my junior year of high school. Previously I didn’t like socializing and immediately went home after school and only interacted with a few of my friends during school, however I realized that spending my time this way was a waste. Going home to just study and play video games wasn’t the most productive way to improve my character nor socialize with people. I knew something had to change so I joined some of the extracurriculars and sports that my friends were a part of. Those experiences weren’t all great since I’m not athletic but I learnt about the commitment and effort needed to be good at sports and I gained a new found respect for my friends that were so dedicated to their respective sports. Through these experiences I made many more friends that I would have if I had stayed the way I was.
As graduation was approaching I realized how little time I had spent on extracurriculars that my friends have spent their lives enjoying. I regretted not trying more things when I was younger, however I didn’t dwell on it for long because I decided it wouldn’t be worth it to spend my time on regret, rather I would try more things in college and live in the moment.
August 15, 2024 at 8:10 pm
Savannah
I heavily agree with this because I always felt that pushing my feelings down so that others could be happy was most important. I would be so drained from doing that, I would be exhausted after school and didn’t really hang out with my friends as much. Like you said, I really only hung out with my friends at school, so I really relate to what you said because I was kinda in the same situation. I think it’s really important that we focus on our social battery and how we hang out with people because we don’t want our last moments to be remembered as just going home and doing nothing. We want to create friendships and memories, and by going home, we’re not really doing that much. So, I think what you said was really important, and I can really connect to what you stated in your blog.
August 16, 2024 at 12:47 am
I have also had many similar experiences as you. I did not spend enough time trying to get to know new people when i was younger. I also spent all of my free time playing videogames with my small group of friends. It wasn’t until the end of my junior year of high school that I started becoming more social. I played sports, made a lot more friends, and finally realized who I really am.
August 15, 2024 at 4:11 am
-Cole G
I have always had difficulty with mistakes in my life. I hate making them and I hate cleaning up the mess after. The human is bound to make over 50 mistakes in their daily life. Making them is the easy part but living with them and experiencing them is what takes the most courage. I used to think of mistakes as me being a failure and for many years of my life mistakes gave me anxiety, fear, and put me in a place that I didn’t want to be in. After growing and going through more and more mistakes I got better at dealing with them. I always write in pen. I personally just love the way it feels to write with one and how it flows as you write. Subconsciously though, I did it because it made me not want to make mistakes due to them not being erasible. For all of my highschool experience I wrote in pen no matter what. Every math teacher would question why I wrote in pen and told me the best instrument for math was a “pencil.” As I made more mistakes, when it came to the test or exam I would remember scribbling out what I wrote and writing the correct answer. It was almost a muscle memory that when I saw a certain word in a spot my hand would either scribble it out and write the correct or keep it there. This is when I learned that mistakes are here for us to learn. They are here for us to become better, and the one thing that everyone should know is that having a mistake is ok, but when you don’t learn from it that is the real problem. Don’t dig yourself into a deeper hole, but don’t look over it like nothing happened. Process it and try to better yourself because learning too has its ups and downs. Taking those into account will make you better.
August 15, 2024 at 4:38 am
Rebecca K
The fear of change has always haunted me in my social life. I would constantly worry about losing friends and making sure everyone I cared about was happy. I did this no matter what the outcome was for me. I didn’t want to upset anyone and risk losing them or damaging our relationship. I was terrified of losing people because that meant my life was changing. Everyone knows people grow apart and I knew that too but I would do everything I could to prevent it. I loathed the idea of having to make new friends and risk losing my old ones. I would do anything for the people I cared about. It drained me and I wasn’t living for myself. I would miss out on opportunities that presented themselves out of fear for the outcome.
I knew I wasn’t living the way I wanted to and needed to make a change. My senior year came around and I was ecstatic. Until I learned that I would be separated from all my friends. I dreaded the idea of making new friends and the people around me changing. I decided I was going to close myself off completely and just try to make it through the year but I was miserable. I hated going to school more than anything because I felt so alone. Everything was so different and it terrified me but that is not how I wanted my senior year to go.
About a month into school I decided I was going to start living for myself. I opened myself up to new people and created amazing friendships. I began to enjoy going to school again because I had people around me. Instead of letting my fear of change control me, I decided it was time for me to control myself. I loved every last second of my senior year with my new and old friends. I learned that living for others and constantly putting off change blinded me from what was right in front of me. There was so much opportunity, love, and happiness waiting for me when I finally allowed myself to see it. Sometimes you have to ask yourself tough questions even when it is uncomfortable. So, who is really controlling your life?
August 15, 2024 at 5:24 am
Justin Coelho
Throughout high school, I was convinced that being busy was the ultimate sign of success. I thought that cramming every minute with homework, sports, and social activities meant I was winning the game of life. My days were packed, and I wore my exhaustion like a badge of honor. But everything changed during my senior year when I hit a wall. As college applications keep appearing, I tried to juggle even more responsibilities, hoping to impress colleges with my overflowing schedule. Instead of feeling accomplished, I was overwhelmed and anxious. My friends and I were all in the same boat, and it felt like we were racing towards being unsuccessful rather than successful. I had a chat with my teacher who had seen this pattern before helped me see things differently. She explained that being busy doesn’t necessarily lead to success, instead, it’s important to balance hard work with self care and downtime. I realized that constantly being on the go wasn’t the key to success or happiness. Instead, focusing on quality over quantity, and taking time to relax and get time to rest , was just as important. Now, as I step into college, this new belief is essential to me. College is a whirlwind of opportunities and challenges, and learning to balance my commitments with taking care of myself will be very crucial. By valuing both productivity and personal well being, I can navigate college life more effectively and enjoy the journey, rather than just racing towards the finish line.
August 15, 2024 at 1:17 pm
Bibechana K
“Live in the moment because you never know if it’s going to happen again.” This quote has left a lasting impression on me .People usually spent their childhood thinking what they will be doing in future .They forget to live their childhood to the fullest. However, while growing up they realize that it was all worthless as no one can control what’s going to happen in the future .Life will always be stressful if you spoil the moment perturbing for what you will be doing in the future rather that dwelling in the moment . As, I am international student my dream was to study in USA and I devoted most of the most time concerning about the future weather I would get a approval to study here or not .Before, arriving here I expended most of my time distressing about future so I spend time with my family .Now ,I realized that I should have spent time with my family members and lived that moment . Now, I understood that how being with loved ones and living a little moment enhance our happy life. Nowadays, I observed that people are either regretting about the past or worrying about the upcoming time rather than living in the moment. In nutshell ,we never know what future upholds moreover , we cannot control it .This ,taught me that ,life becomes more meaningful and delightful when we realize that we will never get the same moment twice .So, live in the moment and enjoy where you are now.
August 15, 2024 at 3:36 pm
Zackary J
I have come to believe that our generation needs to realize how valuable spending time with others is. Throughout high school I have noticed others and myself wasting time, just sitting around scrolling through social media when we are just a few steps away from going outside, spending time with family, or having fun with friends. I think that things have greatly changed from when I was younger, and I would often see plenty of people outside, spending time with their communities while nowadays it’s a rarity to even see someone on a walk. Technology has allowed for us to stay inside, limit confrontation with others, and live a lazy lifestyle. Specifically, I remember the start of this summer, the first nice day out I figured I would go outside and take a walk around the town. What surprised me was how little I saw. Sidewalks were empty, yards were bare and everyone was still cooped inside attached to their phones. I’m not saying I am perfect in this matter but rather I think everyone as a whole needs to spend a lot less time on their phones, computers, etc.; because every second is valuable so why waste it on a screen when you can be out having fun with your friends, catching up with someone you haven’t talked to in a while, or even something as simple as walking your dog. A whole lot more can be made out of the time that we have yet many people fail to realize it.
August 15, 2024 at 3:59 pm
Amaya Davis
Living in the moment is something that I believe is very important. In today’s world, people are very caught up in their phones and what is on social media. I am one of those people who wasn’t very mindful about living in the present. Every time something good was happening I was very quick to pull out my phone and record. Now that I know about living in the present I record less and I stay off of social media more. By living in the moment you can be focused on the present moment. You can be more engaged with your family and friends and whoever you may be hanging out with in the moment. It can allow us to experience everything, and appreciate everything/everyone around us. Living in the moment also allows us to appreciate the little things in life. When we are fully present, we are able to notice and appreciate the small things that are all around us. From a beautiful sunset, the wind blowing amongst the trees, to pretty butterflies flying around, to seeing how people might engage with one another.
I also believe living in the moment can help us to reduce stress and anxiety because we are not constantly worrying about what may happen in the future. By focusing on the present moment, we can allow our minds to be calm and remain peaceful.Lastly I believe that living in the moment is essential for our overall happiness and well-being. By focusing on the present and fully engaging with each moment as it comes. We can find a sense of peace within our minds, joy from family and friends being around us, and gratitude from appreciating the little things around us. We should always take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the world around us, and live each moment to the fullest.
August 15, 2024 at 4:00 pm
Kayla J.
In today’s generation I’ve realized that many of us do not live in the moment. Technology is only getting more widespread and advanced as time moves on, the younger generation is getting completely brainwashed by social media, social norms, and popularity. I believe that living in the moment and setting aside the phone eliminates large amounts of stress and causes people to focus on real world issues.
Social media has many positives and negatives. Many of us, including myself, used social media platforms during covid to keep in contact and even meet new people. This for me was a big positive in my life, on the negative side however, I lost all forms of social skills because of it. Yes it can be very entertaining watching videos on youtube, or scrolling through tik tok but it completely eliminates people forming real connections face to face with others. Research has shown that living in the moment and having acts of mindfulness significantly improves mental health.
Social norms have highly increased within these past few years. Living in the moment helps people form their own genuine opinions and feelings rather than going along with what others want you to think and feel. I used to go along with social norms heavily while growing up. I was so focused on what everyone else would think and I would form my opinions based on theirs. I got into many arguments because of this but as I’ve grown I’ve realized that focusing on the present rather than what people say online is way more enjoyable and beneficial to everyday life.
August 15, 2024 at 8:06 pm
Savannah McElroy
Living in the moment has become increasingly important in today’s world, especially for our generation that has grown up surrounded by screens and digital distractions. The constant bombardment of notifications, social media updates, and the pressure to capture every moment can make it challenging to truly experience life as it happens. However, embracing the present can lead to a more fulfilling and balanced life.
Firstly, living in the moment allows us to fully engage with our surroundings and the people we are with. When we put down our phones and focus on the here and now, we can build deeper connections with others. This presence fosters meaningful conversations and strengthens relationships, something that is often lost when we are distracted by screens. By being present, we show others that we value their company and are genuinely interested in what they have to say.
Secondly, living in the moment can significantly reduce stress and anxiety. The constant need to check our phones and stay updated can create a sense of urgency and pressure. By focusing on the present, we can break free from this cycle and find peace in the simplicity of the current moment. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing, can help us stay grounded and appreciate the beauty of the world around us. This shift in focus can lead to improved mental health and overall well-being.
Lastly, living in the moment encourages us to savor life’s experiences. When we are constantly thinking about capturing the perfect photo or updating our status, we miss out on the richness of the experience itself. By being present, we can fully immerse ourselves in the sights, sounds, and emotions of each moment. This heightened awareness can lead to greater joy and satisfaction in life, as we learn to appreciate the small, everyday moments that make life special.
In conclusion, living in the moment is crucial in today’s screen-dominated world. It allows us to build stronger relationships, reduce stress, and fully experience the richness of life. By consciously choosing to be present, we can lead more fulfilling and meaningful lives.
Thank you
August 15, 2024 at 8:17 pm
Keyri V.
As a child I didn’t understand the power a simple smile can hold, however as I grew and went through life experiences over the years I came to believe that a single smile can truly make an impact in someone else’s life, maybe even without you noticing it. Since kindergarten, I remember my parents telling me every morning to smile as I walked in through the doors and say, “Good Morning!” to the teachers standing at the entrance holding the doors open for the children. Of course, I listened and walked into school with lots of excitement at first, however, as the school years progressed, I slowly found myself scared to say a simple Good morning to the teachers. This was because there were some instances where when I would walk in through the doors I would have a smile on my face and say my good morning, but for some reason the teachers would be serious or say nothing back, despite my enthusiasm. Now, I know that their intentions most likely weren’t to hurt a little kids feelings, everyone has their bad days. Reflecting back on it now makes me understand why having a smile on your face can make a great difference. There would be times where I would walk in the building and chose to say nothing because the teachers were serious, but seeing a smile on them would quickly make me change my mind and tell them “Good Morning!”. I think holding a smile is important because it can help us make connections with people and overall create a happy environment for everyone, whether it be on campus or any other environment. It’s like the saying, “you get what you give”, and it does not cost anything to give out a smile.
August 15, 2024 at 8:53 pm
Elizabeth G
For many, living in the moment is about much more than putting your phone away and enjoying the company around you. I have learned that making spontaneous plans to get ice cream or even telling your friends to sleep over when everyone has work in the morning is how I’ve been living differently this summer. Leaving for college has always been something in the back of my mind that made me nervous or stressed yet excited to be an adult. But I always thought that once I’m gone there will be a lot of people I won’t see again or I will have to work much harder to keep in touch with. For me I have had long time friends who I am just now learning so much more about. As well leaving for college I am trying savor moments with my meme who is suffering from dementia.
But as summer goes on I began to get more excited about the adventures ahead of me. Hanging out with friends on days I would normally just relax in my bed. The challenges that will be faced and the many endless people with life stories that will differ from my own. I believe that technology will cause many downfalls to the human population. Especially causing those around us to never take their eyes off their phones in important life moments. But we as a society do not have to let technology take over our lives. Ruining key memories like births, weddings, family parties, etc.I believe that living in the moment for many people including myself is scary. But sometimes in life being scared is exactly how you know you are heading in the right direction. Are you scared for the future ahead?
August 15, 2024 at 9:32 pm
S Dignan
Many times I would find myself worried in life, stressed over the littlest things. A lot of times I would compare myself to others. I would feel belittled and less than them just because of my perception. I wanted to live life based on what I saw and heard my friends doing. I always had this perception that they just knew how to do everything, as if it was second nature to them. It wasn’t until I started thinking for myself and realized that nobody really knows what they’re doing. Everybody is living life for the first time, just like me. I was able to find comfort in myself and trying new things in life. I started caring less about what others thought and focusing on myself. Living life in the moment was by far the most important realization that I came across. Worrying about little things and other people can be so draining, making you feel like your life is not as important as others. In reality we are all the same, living in the same world, doing basically the same things. This really helped me out in school. I used to spend a lot of time over-studying and stressing about my grades or attendance. I realized that everything was going to be okay. I started living my life for me and not for others. I found myself enjoying life so much more and making so many connections that I wouldn’t have made if I just stayed to myself and lived my life under a spectacle.
August 15, 2024 at 10:11 pm
I used to see the rain as something sad and dull. It seemed like every dramatic scene in a film took place during a raging thunderstorm, so I guess that association just stuck with me. And I remember being ever so disappointed whenever we were locked inside for recess on rainy days. Though now that I think about it, I probably wouldn’t have enjoyed the swings much if they were soaking wet, so maybe the teachers had a point on this one.
But, to be honest, this past week has been nothing but storms, and I’ve kept my window open the whole time, just sitting there, listening, watching. There’s something soothing about the sound of rain pounding on the roof, the sound it makes trickling through the gutters—a kind of peace that can lull even my insomniac self to sleep. Even the distant claps of thunder, no matter how loud, seem to draw me in. My favorite part is when the storm gets close, and the lightning becomes so bright it lights up my whole room, even in the pitch-black of night.
Now, I won’t go as far as to say that I have some deep connection with the rain, but sometimes it feels like a gentle reminder to just calm down and savor these fleeting moments. Go ahead, let life be simple again for just 5 minutes, you probably need it. Not everyone will find the same comfort as I do in the rain, but everyone has that one simple thing that brings them this peace, whether that’s watching the sunset, observing fish swim in circles inside their tank, or even watching ants march in a line to and from their nest if that’s your thing.
For me, it’s the rain that brings this quiet comfort, a sense of peace that I’ve come to cherish.
August 15, 2024 at 10:40 pm
Sean P.
I would always worry about what was going to happen to me in the future. I would worry about things such as getting into a good college or even competing at different track and field meets. When I first started track and field as a freshman, I was nervous. I did not have many friends on the team, and I was doing a sport that was new to me. I took up the high jump as my favorite event but when I would get up to my mark to take a jump, I would be very nervous. I would have many thoughts of “What if I land on the bar?” which would hurt a lot, or “What if I hit my head on the bar?” I would often try to think of other things but it never seemed to work. These thoughts were the one thing holding me back from being the best I could be. Competing in the high jump requires mental fortitude because I am trying to jump over a bar that is over my head. I would start to think back on how to deal with these thoughts when listening to all of my dad’s different stories from when he was competing in track and field. He spoke about how he would be nervous at big meets. These were bigger than what I was competing in. He would talk about how he accepted being nervous because it would give him a boost of adrenaline. He also talked about having confidence in his abilities. I really thought about what he was saying and tried to do the same with my nervousness. Now, I feel that I am a better track and field athlete because I accept my nerves and I am confident that I am able to go a lot higher in high jump. Being nervous is just a part of life and everyone has to cope with it. How people handle their nervousness is what can help them be successful.
August 15, 2024 at 10:54 pm
Michael R
It took me a while to figure out what “living in the moment” meant. I always used to take every event that I went to, every time I went out with friends or family. I never really appreciated the time I had there, don’t get me wrong I did enjoy being there, but I realized now that I didn’t include myself more and be more open to have fun. Now that I think back to those memories, I can understand that nothing lasts forever. Tomorrow is never guaranteed or promised. It was only then I realized that I haven’t taken advantage of the times I went out to have fun. I always see that I’m doing things to pass the time and never really analyzed my surroundings and the things going on around me. After I started to see what’s happening around me, I started appreciating life itself and the events that are taking place and it has opened my eyes. It’s made me love the time I’m spending with my family, with my friends, and just enjoyed the alone time I have before I start college. College is definitely going to be the four years I’m forever going to remember or regret, but whatever it may be I will try to enjoy those four years with cheerful memories. It’s going to be start of my career and it’s gonna shape me to be a man I’m proud to be. My main concern is how will life treat me? How much fun am I going to have? Will I be proud of who I become? Only time will tell.
August 15, 2024 at 11:39 pm
Casen S.
Living in the moment allows us to engage with what we are doing instead of needless anxiety about what the future will hold. This is especially true with things outside of our control. By living in the moment, we can grow stronger connections with the people around us and retain more of what we love. By being present in what we do, we often enjoy it more while not being brought down by negative thoughts. Leaving tomorrow’s problems for tomorrow plays a big part. This can prove to be calming and stress reducing. Living in the moment might include taking a break from technology. Being stuck to our phones can easily cause us to miss out on what is most important while watching someone else’s life. This can be done through sports or other activities. Another way to live in the moment is to find something you enjoy and pursue it to the best of your ability. Taking a break from the stress of the world also shows physical benefits in blood pressure and heart rate medicine. Living in the moment with others is also very important. Doing this allows us to be interactive and stay mentally fresh. Being around a group of loved ones can feel like a mental reset in a draining week. Too many people find themselves stressed even while on vacation because they are unable to experience where they currently are. Instead, they think about the issues they have back home that made them go on vacation in the first place.
August 16, 2024 at 12:30 am
Abby M
Living in the moment is something I have grown to appreciate more and more as I age. There are so many moments in my past that I look back on and regret not appreciating as much as I should have. A huge part of that is technology. I spent more time focusing on taking pictures or videos of that moment rather than actually taking it all in with my own eyes. I have tried to do that less as I experience more things in life. It’s always great to look back on my videos and pictures but It’s never the same as when I experienced it first hand. Living in the moment changes your whole outlook on the world as it gives you more opportunities to observe and appreciate the things around us. It can also help you to build much stronger connections and relationships with people around you. I’ve noticed since spending more time living in the moment, I admire the smaller things that most people look right past. I wake up everyday and make sure to see the beauty in everything around me and enjoy it while it’s here. Especially since I’m leaving for college I have had to take time valuing the things around me that I used to take for granted. I never realized how time would actually go by so fast. Growing up every adult always said how time would fly and they would offer the advice to live in the moment. Now that most of those moments have already gone by it makes me regret how much time I lost. If I could go back and change one thing about growing up it would definitely be taking more time to just be. Live in the moment and appreciate the present because it will not last forever.
August 16, 2024 at 12:40 am
Ryan M
Throughout my life I have always hated going to school all the time. Whether it was having to get up early or having to stay up extra late to do assignments I put off. I could never stop complaining about school. Now only a few months after graduation I have realized what school really meant to me. It was never just a place that you are forced to learn, but a place where you can be social make friends and be yourself. Now that I will never be able to sit in class or at lunch with my friends, I wish I took more time living in the moment. I wish I could go back to seeing my friends every day, not having to work around our work schedules and when we move out to college. I wish I had spent more time enjoying what was in front of me instead of always planning what I want to do in the future. Now as I am finally getting ready to move into college, I am prepared to spend much more time enjoying the experience than just wishing for it to be over.
August 16, 2024 at 12:48 am
Nevaeh A
Growing up I have always been told “live in the moment”. I tend to think ahead and think back to the past. I never actually took in the present. So the saying “living in the moment to me” has spoke to me in many different ways. I believe life is too short to miss out on what is happening at the exact moment in each day. I also believe that you should never take anything or anyone for granted and just have fun in life. As I am entering college and starting a new chapter in my life it has really had me thinking. Each decision I have made has led me here and as much as I would like to look into the future, and know what’s going to happen. That’s not what I have learned to do anymore. More stress has came with looking back into the past and worrying about my future. Taking one day at a time has came so much easier to me. Overall I have became a happier person from living in the moment. I encourage everyone to do the same. If you can’t fix the past and can’t see the future why worry about it at that exact moment. With that being said this is how I take in and I believe that living in the moment is very important to do. Always take in everything within the moment because you never know what could happen. In all honesty, stay happy and stress free.
August 16, 2024 at 1:04 am
Matt S.
In our lives, the only thing that stays the same is change. We can all recall thinking of how high school was a lifetime away when we were kindergarteners; looking back as we move on to the next chapter, that time went by in a flash. Time is a universal measure of our experiences, and what happens next will be in the past sooner than we think. Over the course of my life, I have developed the belief that time is incredibly valuable and should be used to the fullest. Before understanding the importance of this value, I spent a handful of years in the world of work following my enlistment period in the military. Most of the time, it was believed that this sacrifice to a higher power would also be an investment in myself. However, I learned my personal and professional goals were on hold while this treasured currency slipped through my grasp. It was not until I was over a quarter century old that the concept of seizing the day transcended into my core values. My voyage across oceans away from family and friends taught me to be independent, yet I knew there was more for me to achieve on my own. The college experience of growth, socialization, and development may have been delayed in my case, but the opportunities that lay before us all here and now is worth our time – for a limited time only. Where focus goes, energy flows: What will you spend your time wisely on?
August 16, 2024 at 1:08 am
Adam S.
A part of every summer that I find most important is living in the moment. The best ways I have found to do this is staying active, making the most of the time you have and finding ways to use the opportunities from the summer to improve the lives of not just yourself but improve the lives of others. A viable way to stay active and to improve the lives of others is to find a summer job. My first job was working at Old Navy doing facilities work. I would go in at 8 AM every day of the week, clean as much as I could in 3 hours and then promptly leave. It may have been some of the most unclean and monotonous work that showcased every facet of human laziness, but I can definitely say that it was character-building and improved the lives of my coworkers while I had worked there. Before I had arrived and started working, whenever someone saw something was dirty, dusty or had to be replaced, they would do it themselves, taking their valuable time away from other things in the store. After I arrived, they all found themselves with more time to get things done without the burden of cleaning the store. Leaving the job, I found that I still had more motivation to get things done, to help others and to improve my own life. All in all, having a way to improve the lives of the people around you may be the most important way to live in the moment.
August 16, 2024 at 1:11 am
Vrajesh P
Growing up, my grandfather had always told me to live my life by a code. He would always tell me to live life without regrets and to always live in the moment. At first I didn’t know what he meant by this. I always questioned why he took this belief so seriously. It wasn’t until my grandfather passed away due to a sudden heart attack that I realized the true weight of the words he always said to me. Everyone has different interpretations on what “living life in the moment” means and that’s ok as there is no right or wrong answer. Everyone is right in their own way based on their ideology and beliefs. The way I view my grandfather’s words and living in the moment is that, Life’s too short to regret your actions and that every second you’re alive, breathing, feeling, you should take full advantage of it because being born is a blessing. Being able to wake up and enjoy the sun’s rays is a blessing that should never be taken for granted. You never know what’s going to happen in the future or how much time you have in this world, so you should always live in the moment and enjoy the time you have and live in the moment. That’s the belief my Grandfather had taught me and that’s the code I live by every day of my life.
August 16, 2024 at 2:14 am
How many of us truly live in the moment?
Kaidyn D
Life is not only full of experiences, milestones, events, accomplishments, or happenings, it is also full of moments. On an average day, approximately 150,000 people die on planet earth. I am sure everyone can agree with me when I say “life is extremely unexpected with every circumstances you can think of”. There is no way of telling what will happen in the future, whether within seconds, hours, days, or years. Life was not made to be planned, so why try make it that way? At least, I believe this to be true.
What happens in the past could haunt you or depress you. No sense of dwelling on the past. You can only control the present. Thinking of the future can be scary for the unknown, but it is only a thought. There is no guarantees for tomorrow. Try to enjoy the present.
When they said “high school is the fastest four years of your life”, they weren’t lying. To think, my freshman year felt like yesterday going from orientation day with my parents, too now driving myself to college campus without them. It’s crazy to think where the time has gone. Life moves fast, we can go through so many changes. Watching our friends and family change, loved ones passing, and important events that have happened over these past four years. Experiencing these circumstances teaches us to take advantage of what’s in front of us and not missing out. So now you ask yourself are you living in the moment?
August 16, 2024 at 2:47 am
Hi my name is Michael Fernandes and living for myself and not worrying about other opinions was the reason I started living in the moment. growing up I was very insecure about the thoughts and their perspective of me effect my life. I believe every one had dealt with it before for example teacher asked a question and you know the answer but your not fully confident, so you don’t say it at all. But mines was with every thing the way I dressed ,talked and even walk I was so glued on making other like my persona and my online images . It really took over my life I didn’t truly knew who I was as a person for example I couldn’t tell if I liked something for myself or because others would see me as “cool” . It was effecting me mentally and physically. Until covid that since everything was closed and shutdown there was no one to impress. I started finding self love and finding things I liked slowly no caring what others think after
after quarantine I started hanging out with the people who care for me , not for the Michael online persona.I started this living through the moment not caring for others opinions and what people really truly thought of me. and I honestly believe that’s the best decision that I made I have been the happiest I’ve ever been. I believe everyone should try this to see how they’re mental health improves from getting off the internet and getting off of Technology and living your life just for you, not for others to see it and judge.
August 16, 2024 at 2:50 am
Bryanna P.
Growing up adults always have told me to “live in the moment”. Before I didn’t understand much as to why it was such a common saying for adults, especially in that same generation. The saying used to annoy me because my excuse would be that I “want to save memories”, but the more grow I realize that the saying wasn’t to nag at the fact that we’re using our technology so much more, it was to let us know that it means fully embracing the present and cherishing the time spent with family. One of the biggest benefits of living in the moment that i’ve had is building trust and understanding with other people, new people at that. These experiences with people have created a supportive environment around me where everyone feels valued. I cherish ever relationship and action that i encounter and being present continuously helps me appreciate the small joys of everyday life, like a child’s laughter, a simple flower or a beautiful sunset, which are often overlooked in the rush of daily routines. Additionally, living in the moment can reduce stress and improve overall well-being. if we all can practice mindfulness we can be better equipped to handle challenges calmly and positively rather than getting caught up in worries. By embracing the present, we all can create a nurturing atmosphere that promotes happiness and fulfillment for all. In essence, living in the moment allows us to treasure our time together and build a foundation of love and support that lasts a lifetime
August 16, 2024 at 3:00 am
Devon F
Something that’s greatly enhanced my belief in living in the moment is a recent hobby of mine, that being photography. After high school, I found myself wanting to be able to keep some sort of log or at least some sort of lasting memory of the little things around me during this big time of change. Its an exciting time of my life, after all. While making memories throughout the summer, I would be taking photos along the way to immortalize the moment. I had truly been having the time of my life and doing it with the people I love the most around me. Time as a whole seemed to fly by faster and faster with each day, and before I knew it some of the most influential moments of my life were already far behind me.
But, while the photos themselves may not change, the feelings surrounding them and their contents may. Looking back on a lot of them gives me a sort of bittersweet feeling now that the moment has passed and people have moved out of my life. Whether it was subconsciously because of this realization or not, towards the latter half of the summer I’ve been a lot more impulsive with my decisions. Not necessarily any life-changing decisions, just more of a “Hey do you want to do this today?” with a lot less planning behind it. By immersing myself completely in whatever I’m doing alongside making the most of the opportunities I’m given, I’ve been able to fully appreciate the surreal feeling of truly living in the moment. Moving forward I’ll definitely be appreciating the world around me a lot more and “living in the moment.” It really does give you a feeling that’s impossible to replicate.
August 16, 2024 at 3:24 am
Tianna D.
“A whole year.” That is what everyone said to me at the start of my senior year. We were all told we still have a full year left to make memories, fix our grades, and make something of ourselves before we head off to college. At the moment, it seemed like a lot of time. Until it wasn’t.
Once the schoolwork started coming in and college application due dates started creeping up, everything felt like it was coming towards me at full speed. I felt behind, like everything I did wasn’t enough, and everyone was always five steps ahead of me. That feeling caused me to skip out on hangouts so I could instead write an extra essay, or stay quiet in the loud lunchroom so I could instead finish an application. That feeling made me miss out on some important memories with important people.
It took me midway into my senior year to realize just how important the next few months were going to be. In January, I started realizing some of my closest friends were going to be moving 500 miles away. And instead of being present, and enjoying my time with them, I was crying over my mid-year essay that wasn’t due for another two weeks. I had realized my habits had to be changed. And quickly. Because “A whole year” was now only four months.
So instead of writing another essay that wasn’t necessary, I attended my friend’s award ceremony. And instead of doing that application in a lunchroom, I went prom dress shopping. I started to take the saying, “live in the moment,” more seriously because who knows how many more special moments I would be able to have with my favorite people. Living in the moment allows me to be appreciative of the little things, and slow down time even if it is just for a second. It reminds me of all the good things I have around me and to not take life so seriously at times. It reminds me that I am human.
August 16, 2024 at 3:39 am
Lilyana P.
When I think of living in the moment one of the first things that comes to mind is summer time. The last three summers of my life, I have worked full time at a summer camp called Girls Inc. While working there I met some of my closest friends and have created so many amazing memories. If I did not put myself out there to start looking for a job that I genuinely enjoyed, I would have never become friends with these people, and doing that was one of the best things that had ever happened to me. Finding a job also requires you to branch out and meet new people, interact with people you may have never thought twice about speaking to, and learning how to work well with your peers.
August 16, 2024 at 3:48 am
Anai S
Living in the moment to me is taking in and embracing all the good things you have going in life and letting the rest fall into place after, so you don’t allow the negative experiences to steal your joy. Fulfilling this can be difficult being that everyone is human, and we are constantly going through things daily, which can be overwhelming. Focusing on the here and now creates space for us to engage with our surroundings and make stronger relationships and it doesn’t allow for the negative things to dominate what we have going. Being an athlete has shown me that living in the moment sometimes is not only important and beneficial for you but for those around you also. Whenever I was on the court focusing on the here and now and only worrying about how great the game makes me feel it made me play better and motivated my team to do the same. Compared to if I was to have a bad day and let the bad energy on to the court with me it wouldn’t make me a good player and I would be letting down the others around me because I decided that it wasn’t important to put that energy aside and focus on the good that is happening presently. Overall living in the moment allows everyone to live more fully and find more joy but obviously to an extent where you don’t get caught up in living in the moment because then you may find yourself a little off course so make sure there’s a balance.
August 16, 2024 at 3:50 am
Tehya K
A belief that I questioned in the past that I no longer believe in is second chances. There are many reasons I no longer believe in second chances but the main one being unrealistic expectations. Giving second chances creates unrealistic expectations because of the false hope that they give. When you give someone a second chance it is most likely because of a mistake they have made previously or a disagreement. Just because you are giving a second chance doesn’t mean that the mistake they made can be forgotten or forgiven. Not every problem can be solved or improved to a point where a relationship can be faultless. These unrealistic expectations also give the narrative that whatever mistake that certain person has made is okay to repeat that error once more. They will feel like they might not have to completely fix or improve on the mistake or problem they made because they assume or know that you will forgive them. Another factor of this is trust. By repeatedly giving out second chances especially without consequences, it can cause breakdowns. Trust is something that is built overtime and frequent second chances is something that can and will ruin the bond and trust of ones relationship. Overall, this belief is important to me because of the many second chances I have given out. Not only to friends but to family too. Believing in second chances gives the mindset that mistakes shouldn’t be taken seriously and will be an easy fix if or when made. I believe second chances reduce accountability, cause destruction to trust that was built, and cause avoidance of accountability.
To what lengths do you think second chances should be given?
August 16, 2024 at 3:50 am
Aaliyah S.
Growing up a big part of my childhood was being told by my parents and family members to “live in the moment.” At the time I never knew the reasoning behind that statement. When I was a child and every time I heard the saying, I ignored it because I didn’t know the meaning as a child. Going into my freshman year of high school is when reality hit. My freshman of high school flew by, that was the moment I finally understood what my parents meant by “live in the moment.” From that day I took each day as a learning process. I knew it was normal to make mistakes and learn from them as long as I was living in the moment. Growing from my mistakes but also realizing that things can change so quickly. I also learned that things and people come and go. Each day you get is a blessing from God, to never take things from granted. To enjoy every moment you get with a smile on your face. Things can get hard but also things are better when you are living in the moment with happiness. The biggest lesson I learned throughout my high school experience was not to worry about the past but also don’t worry about the future. I also learned to trust God’s timing and plan and with that everything will fall into place. If you stress yourself about the past or the future, you’re taking time that could be spent on yourself living in the moment. When you’re living in the moment you look at things differently in a good way, you never take things or people for granted. Everyday is a blessing from God.
August 16, 2024 at 3:59 am
Lilyana P.
When I think of living in the moment, one of the first things that comes to mind is summer time. The last three summers of my life, I have worked full time, at a summer camp called Girls Inc. While working there I met some of my closest friends and have created so many amazing memories. If I did not put myself out there to start looking for a job that I genuinely enjoyed, I would have never become friends with these people, and doing that was one of the best things that had ever happened to me. Finding a job also requires you to branch out and meet new people, interact with others who have differences from myself, and learn how to work well with your peers. Before I started working I had just had a few friends from school that I would hang out with all the time and it was the same cycle over and over again. I would never try to branch out and find new friends because I knew that the bonds that I had worked so hard to form were already so strong that I didn’t need new people in my life, and that change was always a bad thing. Using the skills that I learned while working has helped me to learn that change is a good thing. everything happens for a reason and knowing that helps me to live more in the moment, and see that there are so many other things out there waiting for me to experience
August 16, 2024 at 4:00 am
I feel like when it came too trying to fit in when it came too middle or high school. I tried so much to try and be like everyone else, or try and like the same things others did as a way to become likeable and approachable by the people I was surrounded by. But as I got older I realized that it was better to just free roam everything as it happened and tried to find my own interests in things I liked instead of what I thought everyone liked. It felt amazing to do what I wanted and not have to worry about not fitting in. Instead it became easier to make friends as I was very different than everyone else and had my own interests in either, sports, free time, or what I wanted to be when I was older. I remember asking my dad how he went through high school and made friends, fit in all that stuff, I’ll never forget what he told me. He said “Live in your time, not other people’s time, do what interests do, don’t worry about what other people are doing, focus on yourself, you feel a lot better when you do.” And he was right, and I will always be thankful for what he taught me. Now as I enter college I am going to take in his advice and do what I want in my own time and try not to be as much as a follower.
August 16, 2024 at 4:01 am
Cisco Aponte
Growing up my pops always told me to live in the moment. It has been always what he preached to me ever since I was young. He always told me do everything with a purpose and don’t take things for granted but I never knew what he meant by this. When I was younger I lost a lot of close family members to me. Losing them not only caused me to grieve but it also was the cause of a lot on pain and anger. It caused me to be selfish and to only care for myself and not the people around me. As I got older I started to change, I told myself I have to change as a person because there were certain goals I wanted to achieve. I started by checking in with my loved ones more frequently, seeing how they were doing, asking them about their day, telling them I love them, appreciating everything I have and people around me. Not only that but also being aware of my current experiences rather than distracted on thoughts on my past or things I don’t know about coming in the near future. Living in the moment is an essential to live your life to the fullest. Doing things with no worries and only being worried about that one thing that you are doing allows you to forget about everything else besides that one thing you are focused on. By focusing on the present and making the most of every experience you’ll have more joy in your life and just be happier as a person.
August 16, 2024 at 12:59 pm
Nate D
I used to believe I had all the time in the world. “I still have four years until graduation, there’s no need to worry about college right now” is what freshman year me would say. To avoid worrying about the future, I procrastinated little things that set me back more than I realized. I slacked on my college essay and college applications and regret it deeply. After graduation I realized how precious my time truly is. I now try to view time as a scarce resource. Since my graduation I have tried to work hard to invest in my future. I believe that being present and living in the moment has been crucial while doing this. When I find myself worrying about the future or dwelling in the past I am unable to live a life of true fulfillment. Living in the moment allows me to be more appreciative of what I have. It also allows me to be more productive and efficient in my work. When I’m going through a rough time in life I try to remind myself that in a year I will be able to look back on this situation and find something good that came out of it. In past times, I would hyper fixate on the situation, distracting me from everything going on right in front of my own two eyes. This was horrible for my productivity and instilled bad habits in my work ethic. Making the switch to living in the moment and trusting in Gods plan for me has been absolutely detrimental to my mental health and overall well being.
August 16, 2024 at 3:10 pm
I believe that living in the moment is important because of how I have wasted my time for the last 18 years of my life. I have spent years of my life doing nothing to prepare for my future, like a lot of people here. Yet I know that my time should still be respected, unlike some people I can name. I think I could spend time doing other things lying in bed and resting, I could get started on working and learning or doing community engagement in a school desperate attempt for community engagement. From a young age I was depressed and wasted a lot of my time in middle and high school. I could die any day now and still have not accomplished anything, but do I regret it? Of course not! I still have time to work on attaining a form of happiness on my own even if that will be in the future. Personally, I could also say that with an upmost certain ty that Living in the moment is a saying made up by people who are afraid of dying, and when I think about it, I am more content not roping myself in with that group of people, I am a lone spirit, someone who is not afraid to take time out of his day to do what he has to, and not afraid to spout unintelligible nonsense just to end a conversation. I live in the moment by not caring as hard as others, taking things less seriously, and doing things my way, because in the end, I could really not care any less.
Andrew F
August 16, 2024 at 6:30 pm
Lillian V
Living in the moment is a challenge for most people. It was something I was often reminded to do by the people around me. Growing up with my Stepfather in the army meant constant deployments, relocations and going long periods of time without seeing family. We never stayed in one place for more than 3 years. One thing that this taught me was to focus on the present, and cherish the time you do have with people, even if it isn’t long. Every summer I would go to my fathers house and spend a few months there with him and my brother. When it would get closer to the end of the summer and I would have to go back home, I would focus on the fact that I was leaving, instead of the time I had left with them. I would be happy to go back, to see my mom and stepfather, but also sad to be leaving the rest of my family. It’s better to live in the moment, spend time with your family and friends instead of stressing about things that are out of your control. Living in the moment means to be connected to the world around you, to be grateful for the interactions you have with others. It means to do the things you love and not dwell on the past or worry about the future.
August 16, 2024 at 8:01 pm
Jaeleigh B
Do you ever reflect on the fact that we only get one chance at life? Recognizing this knowledge will not only make you feel more free, but it will make you want to cherish every moment you have, good or bad. The saying or belief, “You only live once” is a something that I have commonly heard ever since I can remember. Ive had so many loved ones pass away throughout the years, but when my uncle passed away in 2011, it had a profound impact on me, and made me realize that you’re not not guaranteed forever. You could leave this earth at any given moment, and have absolutely no clue about it. That’s why it’s extremely important to be aware of how blessed and gifted you are with this life. Rather than dwelling on the negativity in the world, I began realizing how recognizing that time is precious can help you become more present. It can bring you closer to friends, family, peers, even the people you dislike. You start to think about how this is all our first time being alive and we are all figuring ourselves out. With that being said, do something that’s out of your comfort zone. You never know if you’ll regret not taking a chance. So make sure even if you feel like you can’t do something or you’re scared to do something whether it’s something minuscule or large remember this is your only chance at life and you only have one shot!
August 17, 2024 at 2:44 am
Angelique T.
Something I find myself saying often is “I’ll figure it out.”
I’ll tell myself this when faced with pretty much anything. If I get a bad grade, if money is tight, if I lose something important to me…but the mantra always has the same effect. It’s what makes me want to get up every morning, because if we can just make a start then maybe, eventually, things won’t have to be so hard.
That’s not to say life isn’t complicated. Sometimes, we have trouble getting a job, sometimes someone doesn’t have a lot of time for us, sometimes we feel so lost that it doesn’t seem possible to find our way again… I mean, life’s just difficult. Sometimes you just need to accept it and move on. It’s okay if life doesn’t always go your way. But I’ve always found life just becomes more complicated when you start to believe that every complicated problem needs a complicated solution, there is no room for simplicity—so how could you hope for things to be simple?
I would rather believe that a simple solution exists somewhere in a matter of moments than spend years trying to figure out a complicated problem. I mean, how many years do we really have to spare? Is it truly worth it to waste time searching through every possibility? And even worse, why would you?
So why not turn to the simpler things? Why over complicate the overly complicated? Even now, I still am not sure how to end this. But, as always, “I’ll figure it out.”
August 17, 2024 at 3:26 am
Daniel M,
Living in the moment, an idea that has allows a time for acknowledgement and escapism. These special moments that allow you to stop fixating on what was and what has yet to be, allowing a focus on to reflect and enjoy this special moment in your life. From the day I was born I had one mentality. This being that I had to be the best at whatever I did , whether this was grades, talent or anything else. I would find myself always comparing myself to those around me. I remember one specific day, I had a Spanish test. I was already on the verge of failing the class. My legs and hands were shaking in fear of the grade I would get. Even after the test as per usual, a sense of dread and worry followed me. I was constantly fixated on what grade I get in the test. Later on that day, I was hanging out with friends at a plaza. Even then all I could focus on was a grade that reality I couldn’t change and couldn’t really help at this point. Then all of a sudden something snapped in me. Whatever it was allowed my to realize that there was no point in being miserable, especially when I was hanging out with my friends. After all if I was going to do my whole life, my life would be full of stress. I didn’t need the stress. It felt good to just let it go and focus on the joy a felt in the moment. There would be a time to focus on this but that time wasn’t now. Not when I was finally able to let myself enjoy a night with my friends. That was when I learned the important lesson of just how important it was to truly live in the moment. Ever sense then, I’ve always asked told myself on thing. This being that life is too short for anyone to focus on what may and what has happened. In the end, sometime living in the moment can even help my future. This by allowing you to come to my problems with a straight head, that is ready to make the right decision. Furthermore it allows for a sense appreciation and care for both the people and things around me. Moments come and pass and it is ultimately up to me, in which ai choose to live and let myself experience. That is how I live in the moment.
August 22, 2024 at 4:30 pm
Justin A,
Living in the moment, often mentioned to as mindfulness or present-moment awareness, is a practice rooted in the idea of fully experiencing and engaging with the present rather than being busy with the past or future. This concept brings the importance of appreciating the current experience, which can lead to a more fulfilling and balanced life.
One of the benefits of living in the moment is its potential to reduce stress and anxiety. When people focus on the present, they are less likely to be overwhelmed by worries about what might happen in the future or regrets about past actions. This can lead to a great sense of calm and mental clearness’
Living in the moment boost the quality of experiences. By fully engaging with the present, people can better appreciate and savor life’s simple pleasures, from a meaningful conversation to a nice car ride . This high awareness often leads to a deeper connection with oneself and others, promoting richer and more satisfying relationships.
Practicing mindfulness also can encourage personal growth. It helps a person become more aware of their thoughts, emotions, and reactions, allowing for a more awake approach to decision-making and behavior. This self-awareness can lead to more planned and real living.
However, living in the moment does not mean ignoring future responsibilities or past experiences. Instead, it involves finding a balance engaging fully with the present while keeping an appropriate view on past lessons and future goals. This balanced approach can lead to a more friendly life.
August 25, 2024 at 4:39 pm
Holly G
It’s so easy to get caught up on what happened in the past or what’s going to happen in the future, that we often forget about the here and now, which is where life is really happening. From my perspective, living in the moment is more than just a “trend”; it’s a way to make our lives richer and more fulfilling.
Living in the moment means paying full attention to what’s happening right now. It’s about focusing on the experience you’re having instead of worrying about past mistakes or future plans. when you’re stuck thinking about the future, you miss out on the present. From past experience I would find myself getting caught up about the unknow aspect of life and I only realized how much I was missing out on until I realized I wasn’t enjoying the actual moment because of overthinking.
my advice would be to take in the moment because you only get one lifetime, and the memories and experiences will be over before you know it so make the most of the experience whilst you have it right in front of you.
August 27, 2024 at 9:29 pm
Living in the moment has never been hard for me to do. I often find myself constantly being grateful and admiring the things and feelings experienced in my life. I never struggled to live in the moment as I always enjoyed life and took it for what it is, however at certain times, living in the moment isn’t always so simple. Oftentimes I would procrastinate doing important things to go have fun. In essence I was living in the moment but not the right one. Living in the moment is fine as long as you’re not using one moment to get away from a less desirable moment. When we think about the phrase “living in the moment” we often imagine it is a positive one, however in most cases this is not true. Sometimes the moment is sad, frustrating, worrying or boring. This doesn’t mean the moments are not worth living, as often bad moments can teach and help you grow as a person. It is important that you are truthful with yourself in order to properly live and relish in the moment. I found that when I am truthful and open to myself and allow my thoughts to run freely in my head and into my actions, my current moment is enhanced with bliss and content being able to accept your moment goes hand in hand with being able to accept yourself and current circumstances. This doesn’t mean because you are living like this you can’t make changes, because just like the word implies moments are temporary.
August 28, 2024 at 4:39 pm
Sienna L.
I feel as though “living in the moment” is a phrase that is said often but not taken seriously. It’s easy to get caught up worry about your future or reminiscing about the past that we forget about the present moment. Being in the moment brings clarity that you really only have this life and we all need to cherish every fleeting moment.
I’ve been an anxious person since I can remember. And even now my anxiety over takes me sometimes and I lose myself. I worry about some future issue or a past situation and it’s when I sit there and take in my surroundings that I realize this is all a waste of time. Worrying about things that we either can’t change or have no real control over will not solve anything. It’s when we choose to appreciate the things that are with us in this moment that can bring some sort of closure that things can be ok.
Appreciate what we have in our moments now. They’re here for a reason and they make you happy so why not right? Take those deep breaths when you feel those worries come up your throat and swallow it right back down. Things will be ok in this very moment.
August 29, 2024 at 11:07 pm
Yariel P
I believe that time is truly a gift that we must appreciate before its too late. Living in the moment is what helps me appreciate my time with friends, family, sports, etc. We cant be to caught up in the past because that will corrupt us. It’s true that the past builds up who we are and shapes us into the person we are today but dwelling on past mistakes or regrets can lead to suffering and prevent us from moving forward and growing as human beings. Similarly overthinking the future often distracts us from enjoying the present. As someone who often has headaches just thinking about my past/future, I tend to just be as mindful as I can. Mindfulness encourages us to engage fully and appreciate each moment. This might mean savoring a quiet morning, enjoying a conversation with a friend, or simply appreciating the act of breathing. By grounding ourselves in the present, we can cultivate a deeper sense of contentment and clarity. The present moment, after all, is the only time where action and change are possible. Living in the moment can also increase your relationship with yourself and others. When we are fully present, we listen more attentively, engage more meaningfully, and respond more authentically. This can strengthen relationships and enhance our overall sense of connectedness. Overall, living in the moment is a powerful way to experience peace, joy, and clarity. Shows us how to engage more deeply with life and to experience each day with clarity and purpose.
September 4, 2024 at 3:08 am
Nicholas R.
A lot of people blindly talk about living without regrets and enjoying every possible moment without letting past mistakes affect you. They’ll often tell you that the only thing to do is start focusing on the “now”. I’ve found myself agreeing to statements such as these, telling myself that is what I have always done and continue to strive towards. I’ve told myself these fabricated statements yet still found myself stuck in the past nostalgia of things, yearning to go back and change decisions I’ve made, wishing I had done this and not that, wishing I had kept a relationship, wishing I hadn’t acted some way, telling myself that if I had changed one singular choice in the past then my life now would be so much better. I’ve found myself laying late at night lost in thought over these things knowing I’ll never be able to go back to those scenarios and fix them. Even now, I often find myself in the same predicament.
While oftentimes it can leave you feeling hopeless, I believe it to be essential to reflect on the past to better your choices in the future. My father has often told me the common phrase, “God works in mysterious ways”. While to some it may sound like an excuse for someone in denial, it’s true. Things in life tend to work themselves out in your favor if you give yourself a bit of time to reflect upon yourself. While I know I’ll still find myself longing for the past, I know that the future still holds so many memories for me in the future and it’s up to me to decide how it’ll go. So instead of trying to ignore things that have already happened, I believe that holding onto these memories in a healthy way can also help us make better choices for our futures.