Missing Moments

When Distractions Rob Moments and Opportunities With Others

I had an unexpected bit of emotion the other day. Not crying or anything. Just a deep sense of joy and gratitude.

My parents were at my house visiting. Will (my 11-year-old) grabbed my dad’s phone and started watching videos of himself when he was little. I wasn’t paying much attention as I was watching a basketball game. At one point though he started laughing and insisted that I watch one of his videos. Rather than try to describe it, I have posted it below. What you are watching is Will discovering a Star Wars action figure at my parent’s house that belonged to me.

I have to tell you, watching that video filled me up. Not only seeing the excitement in his eyes but hearing it in his voice. And then that ending. I’ll see you tomorrow, dad. The dramatic pause. I love you. Oh man. All the feels. That’s a video I will be replaying a lot as I get older.

I have to admit that my first impulse was to write about how generative it is to look at pictures, watch videos, or even reflect on our time with those we love. And while I think that is always a great idea, as I sat down to write this something else hit me. I thought about how important it is to be present and not miss opportunities as they happen.

You see, I don’t ever recall seeing that video from Will. I suppose it’s possible that my parents never sent it to me, but I think it is much more likely that I received it and didn’t give it my full attention, quickly watching it and moving on. I wonder how many other (lesser) things I was preoccupied with at the time that I missed Will’s excitement and tenderness. If I’m honest, I allow too many distractions to rob others of my full attention and presence. And what that means is that I miss moments or opportunities to delight in those close to me.

So while I will continue to watch this video and be filled with joy seeing Will’s excitement and tenderness, I am also resolved to be less distracted so I don’t miss moments the first time.

Question

1. What distracts you from the present moment more than anything else? What steps can you take to eliminate that distraction?

Peace,

Brandon