In a world where life moves at the speed of light, we often find ourselves caught in ‘get things done’ of daily routines, our minds racing ahead to what's next on our to-do list. Yet, if you just look around, there exists a profound opportunity to pause, breathe, and immerse ourselves in the simple beauty that surrounds us. One day, as I was once again taking pictures of my flowers, I realized the extraordinary power of my camera phone. In that moment, I connected that the lens of my phone could serve as a portal to mindfulness, a gateway to being fully present.

I chose one of my delicate flowers, the petals glowing in the sun. I began to notice details that I had not noticed before. Each flower, even thought they were the same variety, was uniquely different. And in that very moment, I felt a deeper connection to the world around me. As I knelt there, I could smell the sweet fragrance, appreciating the intricate details of each petal. The act of photographing them became a meditation, a practice of mindfulness that anchored me to the present. My senses were heightened, and the world seemed to slow down as I focused on framing the perfect shot. The camera phone became an extension of my mindfulness, capturing not only the image but also the essence of the moment.

In those stolen moments of stillness, I realized that blending mindfulness with the art of photography allowed me to see the world through a different lens. It wasn't just about taking pictures; it was about truly seeing—observing the interplay of light and shadow, feeling the texture of a leaf beneath my fingertips, and hearing the gentle rustle of petals in the breeze. It was about being aware and present; mindful. Each photograph became a snapshot of my mindfulness journey, a reminder to savor the richness of the here and now. The flowers, with their vibrant colors and graceful forms, served as messengers of my day, where I paused, and guided me to appreciate the beauty that exists in every corner of our world, especially my farm.

So, the next time you find yourself with your phone in hand, consider the gift it offers beyond just scrolling on social media. Pop open your camera app. Embrace it as a tool for mindfulness, a means to anchor yourself in the present moment, and let the world around you unfold as a masterpiece waiting to be seen.

Instead of allowing your mind to run and be in a state of ‘MIND FULL’, step into being ‘MINDFUL’. In the simple act of photographing the world's beauty, you may discover a profound connection to the present, a reminder that mindfulness is a lens through which we can capture the extraordinary in the ordinary.