Conscious Living in the Present: Embracing the Ever-Changing Now

How can conscious living be solely about the present, which exists intangibly relative to the immutable past and the unforeseen future? This article explores the concept of being present and explains its significance in our lives. Understanding the nature of time—past, present, and future—and how we can truly live in the present is crucial for a meaningful existence.

The Immutable Past and the Unfathomable Future

There has only ever been, and will always be, The Now. All actions take place in the present, where the only reality is the current moment. Similarly, the things we learned in the past were based on past moments, which were the present at that time. Actions in the future will be performed in a future version of The Now. The past may now be unchangeable, but it was a probabilistic and imperfect reality.

It's vital to understand that the past, present, and future are not rigid entities but interconnected aspects of an ever-changing reality. The past is a memory, a fragmented and changing representation of the present. The future is yet to be determined, but it is rooted in the present through our actions and decisions.

Confronting Uncertainty and Embracing the Present

The discomfort with uncertainty is a common human trait, but it is crucial to accept that certainty is an illusion in a probabilistic and quantum universe. Events are 'very likely yes' or 'very likely no,' but there are no certainties. Understanding and accepting this is key to living with peace and clarity.

Seek support from a true friend who can help you reconcile with the reality of uncertainty. As the present is the only reality, finding ways to stay grounded and conscious in this moment can bring profound clarity and relief.

The Role of Consciousness and Ego

The ego, while self-conscious, may not necessarily use that self-awareness to the benefit of the entire organism. The past is merely an intangible memory that changes over time. The present, however, is the only current moment available to us, whether or not we are conscious of it.

Being present means focusing on the here and now, without getting lost in the dream-like world of past or future. Self-awareness involves staying present and perceiving the self/dreamer at all times. This concept is further explored through the practice of Dream Yoga, which can offer valuable insights into staying grounded in the present.

The Nature of Reality in Dualistic Existence

Our lives are lived in duality, where the past, present, and future are all real and undeniable. We plan for the future based on our past, making it challenging to draw a clear line between these phases. Our philosophies have evolved to address the suffering we experience in dualistic existence, which is full of ups and downs.

In the present, or the NOw and HERE, perceptions occur on autopilot, without any selection. There is no separation between the perceiver and the perceived; no division exists between subject and object. Instead, all three coalesce into a seamless and homogeneous experience, like a hologram. This hologram includes the entire cosmos without any discrimination.

This hologram is consciousness, which is the subjective aspect of the One Energetic Essence of the cosmos. The material cosmos is the objective aspect of this consciousness. Thought, which gives a continuous commentary on our lives, creates the illusion of a past, present, and future. In reality, past, present, and future are mere thought processes in the now. All that is, is THIS!

By choicelessly witnessing the cosmic dance of the One Energetic Essence, we can truly embody the present and live a conscious life.

Conclusion

A conscious life is one lived in the present, where we accept the ever-changing nature of reality and the duality of existence. By embracing the present, we can find peace, clarity, and joy. Staying grounded in the NOW and allowing the past and future to shape our actions without becoming entangled in them can transform our experiences and bring a deeper sense of fulfillment.

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Keywords: present moment, conscious living, duality, NOW, now awareness.