The power of presence
As you've might already noticed, this is not just a place about food. Well, at least not food as we commonly know it. Just as I believe that food isn't only a means to get energy for our body, I also believe that life is more than getting things done. I won't deny that there's a kind of sense of accomplishment when you tick that certain item off your bucket list. But I wonder, without meaning how long does that sense of accomplishment lasts? Maybe just one moment, as you will surely look for the next item to focus on. I'm completely guilty of doing this. When I'm not doing something I feel like I'm just waisting my time. Except I'm not.
I have my dear friend Maria João to thank for an incredible exercise that she suggested me to do some months ago:
MJ: "Just go outside, sit in your garden and do nothing for half an hour."
Me: "But that's what I do everyday when I meditate!"
MJ: "No, it's not the same thing. Just sit and do nothing."
And what an incredible experience it was. Weird at first for sure, but I felt like I gained something else. I believe it was presence. An overwhelming presence. I've felt this before. I feel this every time I'm deeply connected with nature or engaged in a deep conversation with someone. Or even when I'm meditating. So what is the difference between all these examples and the exercise your friend suggested, you might ask. Well, I guess is the courage to assume that you're about to do nothing in a time where productivity rules, where you are what you do or accomplish. And having the courage to do that empowers you.
If you'd like some extra reading on this, check this article and this. For Portuguese readers, have a look at this one as well.