Life is a Movie.

I have this belief that our eyes are the camera lens, and our emotions are the directors and producers. Today, this belief was reinforced during my walk. I found myself staring at the ground, zoomed into every grain, yet not focused on one in particular. Lost in my thoughts rather. Just like any good mediation, though, I realized I was lost and came back to the moment. It was during this process of coming back to the present when I realized I could see all of my environment. Like a wide shot in a movie, not focusing on one thing yet seeing everything.

I found that anxiety produces a very narrow frame. I see what is in front of me but I’m observing my thoughts rather than my surroundings. I’ve found that mindfulness produces a very wide frame, allowing me to better observe my environment. This frame also makes it easier to emphasize noticing the very basics of my surroundings. This may be unfamiliar to you because you are accustomed to being consumed by intrusive thoughts rather than basic observations. I promise there is value in making basic observations, especially on a walk. They ground you. They balance out the thoughts you have about stressors in your life.

So - This Christmas, I encourage you to enjoy those wide shot moments. Especially when they are composed of people you love the most.

With Love,

Luke