Mindfulness is often associated with meditation or breathing exercises, but from the perspective of the Spirituality of Unity, it is about attentiveness to the presence of God in every moment.
Photo by Jacob Lund
Is it possible to live in the now?
In today’s world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, disconnected, and rushing through life’s moments. Between the demands of work, family responsibilities, and the constant lure of digital distractions, it can seem impossible to find time for quiet. However, within the Spirituality of Unity, inspired by the Focolare Movement, we are called to live fully and lovingly in the present.
I recently completed a mindfulness course (Jon Kabat-Zinn’s MBSR protocol) and have found that this practice can also help me grow in living the present moment more fully. This is where mindfulness becomes not just a technique, but a spiritual practice, promoting unity within ourselves, with others, and with God.
Mindfulness as a Path to Unity
Mindfulness is often associated with meditation or breathing exercises, but from the perspective of the Spirituality of Unity, it is about attentiveness to the presence of God in every moment. Chiara Lubich, the founder of the Focolare Movement, encouraged us to live in the present moment, fully embracing God’s will as it unfolds. This practice of presence is an act of faith, trust, and love.
Living in the present moment means being fully aware of where we are, who we are with, and what God is asking of us right now. It means resisting the temptation to dwell in the past or anxiously anticipate the future. Instead, we root ourselves in the “now,” where love can be lived in its most authentic form.
Growing in awareness of the present moment is not just about slowing down; it is about opening our hearts to perceive God’s presence in the ordinary. It requires a shift in perspective—one where each experience, no matter how small, becomes an opportunity to connect with God and others. This transformation happens when we learn to appreciate the sacredness of daily life. The way we prepare a meal, greet a friend, or even take a deep breath can become a prayerful act when infused with awareness and love.
Practicing this level of mindfulness fosters an inner stillness that allows us to perceive God's whispers in our daily routine. We begin to recognize his presence in the smile of a loved one, in the beauty of nature, in a moment of silence, or in an unexpected act of kindness. The more we cultivate this spiritual mindfulness, the more we find that every moment is an opportunity to deepen our relationship with God.
This awareness also brings a sense of gratitude. When we live fully in the present moment, we become more attuned to the blessings surrounding us—both big and small.
Gratitude, in turn, nourishes a heart of unity, allowing us to see beyond ourselves and respond with love to the needs of those around us.
Practicing mindfulness from the perspective of unity does not require extra hours in the day. It is about transforming everyday moments into encounters with God and with others. Here are some practical ways to do this
1. Begin the Day with a Conscious Offering
When the day begins that moment can become a prayer, a gaze that rises from within towards the sky. Start the day by offering it to God, consciously surrendering everything that will come—joys, challenges, encounters, and difficulties. This helps set the intention to remain aware and present in every experience, treating each moment as a gift.
2. Listen Deeply to Others
One of the most profound ways to practice mindfulness is through deep, loving listening.
When speaking with others, resist the urge to mentally prepare responses or check your phone. Instead, listen as if the other person were Jesus Himself. This fosters true communion and unity.
3. Do One Thing at a Time with Full Presence
In our multitasking culture, it is common to eat while scrolling through emails or talk on the phone while doing chores. Practicing mindfulness means fully engaging in each activity. Whether washing dishes, drinking coffee, or driving, do it with full awareness, turning it into an offering of love.
4. Find God in the Silence
Even in the busiest schedules, brief moments of silence can transform our day. Whether through a short prayer, a pause to admire nature, or simply closing your eyes and breathing deeply, silence is where God speaks. These pauses help to re-center ourselves in His presence.
5. Embrace Interruptions as Invitations
Often, our carefully planned schedules are disrupted by unexpected events or people. Instead of reacting with frustration, view these interruptions as opportunities to love. They may be divine appointments where God is inviting you to unity in an unforeseen way.
6. Practice Gratitude in Real Time
Gratitude brings us into the present moment. Throughout the day, consciously acknowledge the blessings around you—the warmth of the sun, the kindness of a stranger, the beauty of a smile. These moments of gratitude are encounters with God’s love.
7. End the Day in Reflection
At night, take a few moments to reflect on the day. Where did you feel most connected to God? Where did you miss an opportunity for love? This is not to judge yourself harshly but to learn and grow in unity with him.
The Fruits of Mindfulness in a Spiritual Life
When we integrate mindfulness with the Spirituality of Unity, we cultivate deeper peace, stronger relationships, and a heightened awareness of God’s presence. Life becomes less about rushing from one task to another and more about embracing each moment as a chance to love and be loved.
In a busy world, the call to mindfulness is not about withdrawing but about engaging more fully—with God, with others, and with ourselves. By living each moment in unity and presence, we transform our lives into a continuous act of love, making even the busiest days sacred.
So, ask yourself: How can you practice mindfulness today as a way of deepening your unity with God and those around you?
