I enjoy writing and photography (and of course, I love red licorice).
My next book, Indelible: A Sean McPherson Novel, Book One, takes place in the Zen-like wooded acres surrounding Pines & Quill, a writing retreat in the Pacific Northwest. And while Pines & Quill is fictitious, the historic Fairhaven district of Bellingham, WA, where the story takes place is very real. In fact, we took a trip there to take photographs for book promotion purposes. If you follow me on Instagram, you’ve seen some of them.
While watching a video of Zen Master John Daido Loori, an incredible photographer and author of Hearing with the Eye: Photographs from Point Lobos, he said:
“The moment is where our life takes place.
We miss the moment—we miss life.”
I realize that the “big picture” is important too, but in my experience, the moment is essential.
Are you more of an “in the moment” or “big picture” person?
© lauriebuchanan.com
Tuesdays with Laurie 
I tend to be more of a big picture person but I´m trying to be a more in the moment person as I get older. Perhaps because each moment is more precious these days. I too love the Fairhaven area.
Darlene — I’m so glad to know you’ve been to, and love, Fairhaven! 🙂
The older I get, the more I realise that if I live each day as it comes, without worrying about things that may or may not happen in the future or grieving over missed opportunities in the past, the “big picture” takes care of itself. And when I focus on one day at a time, I feel far more content with my life. 🙂
Joanne — One day at a time. Amen siSTAR! 🌟
I think it probably depends on what is going on. Sometimes life feels like one bad moment after another, and then keeping track of the big picture might help. But yes, enjoying the little things in life and each moment is the key.
Olga — “Enjoying the little things in life.” Yes! 🙂
I love that quote by the Zen master you have mentioned.I tend to live for and in the moment.
The big picture has changed a lot due to many twists and turns by Kismet,I finally learnt to enjoy the present.
Congratulations and good luck to you on the new novel.
Roamer — I’m so glad you enjoy not only the quote, but the present moment, too. 🙂
I’m really working on being more “in the moment” than ever. Lately I’ve read some wonderful books on the importance of NOW, and I’ve noticed that in my guided meditations, the importance of “N O W” is repeated often. Being in the moment helps us deal with stress – don’t worry about what happened in the past, or what may happen in the future. Just BE in the moment.
I can’t wait to read your novel Indelible, Laurie. I know it will be a winner.
Pam — “NOW” is a great way to bring oneself back to the moment.
(Regarding Indelible, I sent you an email. Hopefully, you received it).
Glad you mentioned it – just found it. THANKS!
I look forward to the moment when I can read your Sean McPherson novel. If you provide an audio edition, Cliff, a native of Washington state, will probably read it too.
As to your question, I often have my feet in both worlds – in the moment, sometimes observing the big picture. I don’t see them as mutually exclusive. Thanks for the probing question, Laurie!
Marian — I like what you said: “I don’t seem them as mutually exclusive.” 🙂
As to an audio version of Indelible — I’m researching it.
I am giving more attention to the present moment.
I do love the fresh opportunities which bekon in the future and planning for same. And, now, I have shifted, opening more to being presence-based.
It is, at times, difficult to stay present. Distractions pull me away.
Elkhart Tolle recently shared this thought, “We are here to find that dimension within ourselves that is deeper than thought.”
Audrey — Ohhhhh, I love the Ekhart Tolle quote you shared. Thank you! 🙂
This is interesting, Laurie. My former supervisor and I got along well because she was a big picture kinda gal, and I was all about the detail. We were a good team. I relate ‘in the moment’ to the little details that comprise the ‘big picture.’ And I am still the detail person.
LoisaJay — yes, Yes, YES! 👍
I think perhaps I’m an “in the moment” person, but I can’t say with with certainty. This must mean that once again you’ve opened a door that I must explore in greater depth.
Carol — I’m always happy to open a door for further thought. Glad you stopped by today!
I live in the moments Laura, the big picture follows. 🙂
Balroop — You’re my kinda gal! 🙂
Hmmm, that’s a fair question, I had to think about it. If all the moments were perceived as daubs and dabs of color and texture, dark moments and light, over time you would have a Big Picture to regard. Some people can actually plan and execute their future flawlessly, others seem to be tossed wildly by whatever wave of circumstance comes that way. One must remember to keep things in perspective or they will become badly misshapen and out of balance. Step back a moment, cast a weather eye around and check the wind, then resume painting your Life’s Story one moment at a time.
Sandi — Oh, so true! “…then resume painting your Life’s Story one moment at a time.” 🙂
Thanks for asking, Laurie. I am a big picture person. However, my husband’s cancer has shifted my way of being and I enjoy the little moments more than I ever have; a hug from our child or my husband, a morning breeze, brightly colored flowers…
Rebecca — I love what you shared here. Thank you 🙂
I think I lean toward being in the moment. The big picture is so elusive and unpredictable, and we so often end up receiving an ending that we don’t expect. If I stay in the moment and let go of the big picture, it works better for me. Less disappointment that way, and more appreciation when really wonderful things arise out of what I do day to day.
Arlene — I resonate—so very much!—with what you said. yes, Yes, YES! 🙂
My Dad used to say ‘Live for today and let tomorrow take care of itself ‘ . I used to ignore him thinking 🤔 ‘ He’s off again ‘ . I realise now how true that saying is . Wise man my Dad . Book looks good can’t wait to read it .
Cherryx
Cherry — You’re right, your dad’s a wise man. And clearly, you’re a chip off the old block 🙂
The book sounds interesting. Sure I’ll grab it when it is available.
So, will you be coming out with a Pines and Quill t-shirt? 🙂
I love red licorice too.
Oh, wouldn’t that be fun?! And we’re red licorice sisters! 🎈
Ginger — Pines & Quill t-shirts? Wouldn’t that be FUN!
We’re red licorice twins! 🙂