Regret and Recognizing Treasure

The treasures of life are just in front of us.  We need only to look down or up instead of fixing our gaze on objects at the horizon or in the rear view mirror.  Regret comes from a failure to recognize the incredible beauty that surrounds us here and now.  Fond memory comes from savoring the moments of wonder, friends and joy that are happening when they happen.

My favorite Rumi quantrain called "The Red Shirt" grieves the passing of life appreciated too late.  It goes like this:

Has anyone seen the boy who used to come here?

Round-faced troublemaker, quick to find a joke, slow to be serious.

Red shirt,

perfect co-ordination, sly,

Srong muscles, with things always in his pocket: reed flute,

ivory pick, polished and ready for his talent.

You know that one.

Have you heard stories about him?

Pharoah and the whole Egyptian world

collapsed for such a Joseph.

I'd gladly spend years getting word of him,
even third or fourth hand.

I have been to conferences with men who weep when these passages are read.  The thought of time passing without fully taking pleasure in it is a gut wrenching experience.  We will miss plenty enough even without running so hard to some unknown future.  Our dreams and goals are attainable only if we fully attend to the present.  We have to show up today ready to participate and play.  It is the key to having a good time, happy memories and a great life!