Mindfulness – Smells Like Teen Spirit.

On a rainy day, while walking home, I saw a group of teens enjoying themselves playing sepaktakraw in the rain. They reminded me of my school days.

During my primary school recess time, boys will run to the field and play games like marbles, zero-point, catching, hantam bola, or other ball games. We play without being too attached to the outcome and play under the scorching hot sun, under the rain and only a thunderstorm could stop us from playing in the field.

There was so much joy in that short fifteen minutes, as we were totally at the present moment, no past or future thoughts we felt so free. After our fun, with only ten minutes left, we would rush to the canteen and buy food with our soaking wet uniform.

As an adult, I might have lost that ability to play and fully be in the present moment without being attached to the outcome. And because of that attachment, I tend to overanalyze things and become mentally paralyzed. Thus I was unable to take any action that will complete my task. Fortunately, with my mindfulness practice, I learn to let go.

Be at the present moment, do not be attached to the outcome, and set yourself free. “Dance like nobody’s watching; love like you’ve never been hurt. Sing like nobody’s listening; live like it’s heaven on earth.” – Mark Twain

What did you do during your recess time when you were young?