This Magic Moment

In a past post I've written about difficulties with what I call, "The Onslaught of Thought," a terrifying real swirl of every recallable experience of mine, whether good, bad, or indifferent. They come as pieces of a puzzle: in colors, words, sounds; in pictures, actions, feelings - and often in combinations indescribable.

Most of us, though, even in the midst of our worst days, have had at least one perfect time, just one instance of being so involved with the moment that it rapidly disappears, but leaves an indelible mark on the soul. I read many posts already yearning for spring. We, too, love to be that flower or grass blade that wriggles itself free from the dormant earth and blooms, even tentatively, on a warmer, sunlit day.

What if that moment, though, doesn't arrive? Be honest with yourself. What would you say you didn't accomplish that you wanted to? Is it the all-consuming art piece or book, or would you identify something simpler, such as saying, "I love you" to a friend or relative?

CJ Madigan, fellow Artellaland member, writes in her book Behind the Studio Door about the differences between artists and non-artists - those, though, who want to be artists, writers, or even dancers. She concludes that the singular characteristic defining the two groups is that the artists have chosen now to write, to paint, to dance; purposely fitting it into their lives. Now is the magic moment. I think if we are honest with ourselves and what we absolutely want from our lives, we'll have to agree that being in this very minute is the best one in which to be completely, fully ourselves and purposely push the distractions away. Only then can we say we've led the authentic life.

Thank you for allowing me to be in my moment here with you.

Published 19 February 2008 01:30 PM by copper cat

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# Opheliac said on 21 February, 2008 05:54 AM

I love what you say here about the magic moment. It's not tomorrow or next week or next year. We can't wait for the magic moment to happen...it's here and now!

I love this too: "We, too, love to be that flower or grass blade that wriggles itself free from the dormant earth and blooms, even tentatively, on a warmer, sunlit day."

*so true*

# jacquerose said on 21 February, 2008 12:55 PM

How very true, the moment moment is all we have.  I try to focus on that thought and read a lot of books that  reinforce that idea, but still get caught up with worrying about tomorrow.  

# chameleon said on 21 February, 2008 07:36 PM

Bravo, Jani'ce, for a beautifully written reminder to be in the moment rather than on a wild goose chase creating frustration, guilt, and a longing for space, freedom, and as you say, "what we absolutely want from our lives."  

Thank you for being in the moment with us.

- chameleon

# Black Cat said on 22 February, 2008 10:04 AM

Reading your Blog today was certainly a 'magic moment' for me. Thanks so much for your kind comments on my first Blog, too.

# holly said on 24 February, 2008 06:28 PM

Thanks for sharing that quote, I may have to check into that book now.  It seems we were definitely on the same page when we were writing our blog post!  I swear, I did not read your post before I wrote mine!  

# LilyRose said on 24 February, 2008 07:48 PM

I love your post.  I've read it several times now, and it has jogged something loose in my brain and made me realize that the times when I am happiest are the times when I am living in the moment.  It is so difficult to do that though, at least for me.  Distractions are everywhere, and indeed there is the constant onslaught of thoughts.

Thank you so much for such a thoughtful post.

Dawne

# Julie Burger said on 26 February, 2008 10:31 AM

Hi Jani'ce!

I'm speechless! You have expressed a magical moment in the midst of darkness so eloquently.  This is a beautiful post using beautiful words to describe a beautiful moment. You have found the words that many of us cannot find to express our feelings. I feel very much the same about being here with you and everyone else in Artella Land. I am greatful to and for every single one of you and am greatful and honored to be here.

Hugs,   Julie

# Sandi said on 28 February, 2008 09:23 AM

Enjoying "the moment" that you speak of is a rewarding way to focus in a world that can often be overwhelming to sensual individuals.

Sandi

# Constance Bates said on 28 February, 2008 02:25 PM

A thoughtful essay -- and one that makes us stop and take stock.  Thank you!  cb

# Fancifalls said on 28 February, 2008 04:49 PM

Very evocative - much food for thought. Thank you.