Simplicity, minimalism, and focus are concepts that preoccupy me lately. They are great gifts that people can grant themselves.

Perhaps the most valuable gift in life is the present moment. Simplicity and focus helps one to appreciate that gift and make the most of it.

Think of it— the present moment is a gift— it’s “the present.”

The greatest gift a person can give someone else is their full presence.

Don’t talk to me about the past, or about other people, or about what you saw on television.

Don’t look at me and squander this present moment on nostalgia, or gossip, or manufactured meaning.

To do so is to insult our aliveness.

Instead let’s talk about what interests you and what makes you feel most alive.

Let’s talk about how you feel, and explore why you feel that way.

Let’s observe the color and intensity of the sunlight, the scent of the trees, the texture of your new scarf.

Let’s touch— we can hold hands, arm wrestle, dance, play Twister.

Let’s give ourselves permission to be honest, vulnerable, scared, and then to be closer because of it.

Let’s give ourselves permission to listen, to feel, and to be silent.