"In this moment now, capture it, remember it"

The essence of the quote is about appreciating and preserving the present moment. It's about really being there, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too. Think of it as a call to mindfulness, urging us to take a mental snapshot of what’s happening around us—the sights, sounds, smells, and feelings—because these moments are fleeting.

Now, let’s talk context. While it might seem like a modern-day piece of wisdom, humans have been wrestling with the fleeting nature of time for centuries. It could have been something a philosopher like Marcus Aurelius might have pondered during his meditations on the transient nature of life. Or it might have been the kind of advice your grandma gives you when she sees you glued to your phone instead of engaging with family at a gathering.

Take, for instance, a wedding day. Imagine you’re the bride or groom. Amid the whirl of activities, the laughter, the dancing, and the heartfelt toasts, it's easy to get lost in it all and forget to actually *feel* the joy of the day. But if you take a moment to pause, look around, and really absorb the love and happiness in the room, you create a memory that you can hold onto forever. It’s not just about taking photos—though those help—but about actually being present and soaking in every detail.

So, how do we put this into practice in our everyday lives? First, try to develop a habit of mindfulness. This doesn't mean you need to meditate for hours. Start small. When you’re having your morning coffee, really savor it. Feel the warmth of the mug, smell the aroma, taste the richness of the brew. Or when you’re with a friend, put your phone away and give them your full attention. Listen to their words, notice their expressions, and truly engage with them.

Let me tell you a story to bring this home. Picture a dad, let’s call him Mike, who's always busy with work. He’s constantly checking emails, even during family dinners. One evening, his young daughter tugs on his sleeve and says, “Daddy, can you look at me for a minute?” Mike’s caught off guard. He puts his phone down and for the first time really looks at his daughter as she animatedly talks about her day at school. He notices the sparkle in her eyes, the excitement in her voice. That moment becomes etched in his memory—a turning point where he decides to be more present.

You can take a page from Mike’s book. When you're with loved ones, be there—really there. When you're experiencing something wonderful, pause and take it all in. Don’t let these moments slip by unnoticed. Capture them, remember them.

Life moves fast. If we don’t stop to appreciate it now and then, we might miss it. Make it a point to be present, to really experience the here and now. You’ll find that these moments, fully lived and remembered, become the most cherished memories of all.