It was early Saturday morning when I decided to take an outdoor shower. Last week’s heat had finally taken leave, and as I stepped outside, I noticed the birds were back in full force. Goldfinches feasted on sunflower hearts. Baltimore Orioles pecked at oranges. Blue jays squawked in the distance, waiting for a seat at the table.

As I stood in the cold water, I thought about an email I’d received the day before and began crafting a reply in my mind. Then, as I started washing my hair, my thoughts turned to a car appointment I needed to reschedule so I made a mental note to send a text after my shower. As soon as I realized I was replaying a frustrating conversation I’d had with someone a week ago, I caught myself.

Cheryl, I said out loud, come back. There are too many people in this shower with you!

I laughed as I redirected my attention to the moment at hand. I felt the warm water on my skin, heard the blackbirds calling each other to breakfast, and looked up just in time to catch an intricate spider web swaying in the breeze above my head. This is the beauty you miss when you leave, I reminded myself.

We go about our daily lives with nonstop inner noise. Think about it. Who’s with you in the shower, when you’re folding laundry, or as you walk the dog? Who’s with you right now as you read these words? The mind is a relentless companion, and its chatter constantly pulls us away from the very place that brings life to life.

Fortunately, we have plenty of opportunities throughout the day to practice coming home to ourselves. The next time you’re driving to the store, waiting in line for coffee, brushing your teeth, or cooking dinner, notice when you’re not fully present and call yourself back with love. Say out loud: Come home, sweetheart. Then, feel the sensations in your body. Name three things you see right in front of you. Listen for the sounds around you. Let your senses bring you back to life.

Then, be sure to smile at your success. Because the minute you notice you’re not where you are, you’ve returned to where you’re meant to be.

Love,

Cheryl