Spreading the Message of Mindfulness

I relearned a simple lesson this morning:  There is no need to intentionally spread the message of mindfulness.  Just by being mindful in my everyday life, people might decide to join in with me...as was the case on this crisp autumn morning in November.

Pulling into my regular spot in front of my school building, I parked my car next to a tree with magnificent leaves of bright yellows and oranges.  Instead of dragging all of my things into the school building to start my day, I grabbed my camera, almost jumping out of my car and across the street.  Walking first to my right and then to my left, I tried to determine where the sun's morning light was hitting the tree at just the right angle to highlight the vibrant colors. 

After taking several snapshots, I walked back to my car just as a colleague opened the door to hers and asked me, "Were you taking a picture of that tree?"  When she discovered that indeed I had, she remarked on what a good idea it was and thanked me for reminding her to take the time to appreciate the beautiful tree.  She then even pulled out her iphone, walked across the street and began taking her own pictures.

This experience made me stop and realize the times that I am suddenly captivated by the moment-- not because someone told me to-- but because an incredible sight or burst of expression (such as the singers I come across when walking in Harvard Square or Faneuil Hall) sweep me up in the moment.


Questions to Ponder:

1.  When have you been captivated or suddenly drawn into a moment through a sight, sound, or experience?

2.  When has your captivation of a moment drawn someone else in to be mindful of the present?