I’ve finished retelling the serendipitous events that led to our finding, buying, and creating Camp Shasta and Heidi’s remarkable feat. Also, I discovered something about me that is both pleasing and surprising. My memories are so vivid and sharp that I clearly see myself, others, and our interactions—all in color! So, I ask why at my age, is this clarity available to me? I search for reasons and think I know why. And, if what I write is helpful to my readers, that’s a good thing.
When growing up, I was told I was a good listener. Apparently, I was fully present when with family and friends. I know this was true when I worked with children and my own staff. Later with adults, professionals, and entrepreneurs, I was a mentor, ultimately teaching about leadership and the power of being powerful and how these can easily become the crux of communication problems between people. As a teacher and leader, I had to be PRESENT! In fact, when with others, there was no other way.
Being present means “being in the moment.” Seeing, hearing, and trying to understand what is said or done. No judgment, NO AGREEMENT. NO PRETENDING BUT BEING THERE AND LISTENING OR WITNESSING. I did this well enough to recall important (and serendipitous) events, even to this day. It is why I now say that being “PRESENT” may be the most essential demand made on a human.
What follows if one is not PRESENT with others as they lead, teach, and supposedly listen? Nothing of significance, to be sure. How is it possible to understand, confirm and relate to another if not present? BACK THEN, I WAS PRESENT FOR THE OTHER. TODAY I AM PRESENT FOR MYSELF. Is it possible I can recall the past so clearly because I was fully engaged in the moment?
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