The Sacrament of the Present Moment
It seems so difficult, if not impossible, in our frenetic daily lives to focus on the here and now, or see just one thing through to completion without constant interruptions and demands on our time. Plans can be made with close attention to detail, timescales mapped out and outcomes predicted with the best will in the world, only to be derailed by unexpected and sometimes urgent disruptions, and time with each other to listen deeply and attentively seems always to be the first casualty.
Ringing practices are no exception (to misquote Robert Burns, “The best-laid schemes of mice and men [and tower captains] Go oft awry…”) and even the most carefully thought-through timetable for the evening session can go awry, especially when some of the expected band fail to turn up or (very welcome!) visitors appear. ‘Being present’ and able to tune in to a new situation, to pay attention to what is happening, to listen deeply and respond to an immediate need demands much from any tower captain or ringing teacher – it can add to the frustrations of the role and needs infinite patience and considerable flexibility.
Having time for people, listening and being present in the widest and deepest sense of the word is something we see in some of the Gospel accounts of Jesus’ earthly life. Jesus looks at, listens to, and pays attention to what’s happening and he sees, really hears, and engages with what’s going on. It’s as if he’s always asking himself, “What’s going on in what’s happening…? What’s the real need here and what’s being asked of me…?”
What if each situation we face, planned or unexpected, is calling and asking for a response? What if they’re the ways in which God is asking to be made real and present? Whether we’re ringing, or simply living our daily lives in relationship with those around us, I pray that we can take time to stop and attend to what God is asking of us. The present moment is infinitely sacred and one in which, if we listen with the ears of our hearts, we can tune into each other’s real needs, our hopes and dreams, as well as our doubts and fears. Carpe Diem!