It may be your last

Have yourself a merry little Christmas, it may be your last.

These are the original lyrics. I find them more profound. They’re an invitation to be present.

We have a hard time living in the present because we’re constantly thinking about what’s coming next.

We like to anticipate. That keeps us excited, engaged, motivated.

But at times, I feel that I anticipate more than I actually experience.

As if I enjoy looking forward to doing something more than doing the thing itself.

That being said, I also enjoy remembering the past.

Maybe that’s what I’m anticipating. Remembering the thing afterward.

So I’ve been thinking about how to enjoy what’s between the anticipation and the remembrance. How to really live in the present.

Imagine that it may be your last.

Last meal.

Last time you meet a friend.

Last moment you spend with a loved one.

Last movie you watch.

Last walk with your dog.

Wouldn’t you cherish each second? Wouldn’t you be more present?

That’s what I’ve been trying to do lately with some degree of success. I won’t lie, it’s hard. The anticipation machine never entirely comes to a halt.

But I’ve definitely been able to enjoy each moment more.

And so I invite you to try.

Pretend it’s the last time.

Because one day, it may well be.