I Am Here: The Art of Being Present
In a world constantly urging us to move faster, accomplish more, and divide our attention, the simple act of being fully present has become a radical choice
Our devices ping incessantly. Our minds race toward the next task before completing the current one. We find ourselves physically in one place while our thoughts wander elsewhere.
The Wisdom of Slowing Down
The Quran acknowledges our natural inclination toward haste: "Humankind is made of haste. I will soon show you My signs, so do not ask Me to hasten them." (Quran 21:37). This verse reveals hastiness as an inherent human trait.
Even the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ received divine guidance about mindfulness when receiving revelation: "Do not rush your tongue trying to memorize ˹a revelation of˺ the Quran." (Quran 75:16). This teaches us to approach important matters with calm attention rather than anxious haste.
The paradox is striking, real productivity gains often come from slowing down. The principle "Slow is smooth, and smooth is fast" emphasizes the power of accuracy, consistency, and controlled pace in accomplishing meaningful work.
Presence Brings Joy
Beyond productivity, being present unlocks joy. When deeply engaged with someone we love or immersed in meaningful work, time seems to slow. We enter what psychologists call a "flow state" where attention is completely absorbed in the present moment.
Yet how often do we sabotage these precious moments? Our minds drift to past regrets or future anxieties. We check our phones while someone is speaking. We physically attend gatherings while mentally crafting to-do lists.
The person in front of you—speaking with you, sharing with you—deserves your full attention. Not just out of respect, but because true connection happens only in presence.
A Profound Lesson in Presence
The Prophet Muhammad's ﷺ interaction with his blind companion, Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum, offers a powerful lesson in mindfulness. This incident, which led to the revelation of Surah 'Abasa (Chapter 80) in the Quran, occurred when the Prophet was engaged with influential tribal leaders.
When Abdullah approached seeking guidance, the Prophet ﷺ showed slight impatience—a human moment that received divine correction. Allah gently reminded the Prophet that true presence means giving appropriate attention to each person, regardless of social status or apparent importance.
This teaches us that authentic presence isn't selective. It's not reserved for those we deem important or situations we consider significant. It's a way of honoring the divine spark in every encounter.
The Science of Attention
Modern psychological research confirms this: when leaders or peers give their full attention during conversation, they're perceived as more respectful and trustworthy. This increases their relational influence and collaboration potential; making presence not just spiritual wisdom but a practical leadership principle.
Wisdom Across Traditions
Stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius advised: "Confine yourself to the present." He recognized that much suffering comes from dwelling on the past or worrying about the future; neither within our control. The present is where we truly live and act.
Epictetus similarly counseled: "There is only one way to happiness and that is to cease worrying about things which are beyond the power of our will." Distraction and hurry often stem from fixating on matters outside our influence.
Nobel Prize-winning psychologist Daniel Kahneman offers this insight: "Nothing in life is as important as you think it is, while you are thinking about it." Our attention magnifies whatever it focuses on, often distorting our perspective and leading us to chase trivial concerns.
Practices for Presence
Control the controllable: Focus on what you can influence, usually your mindset and actions in this moment.
Live now: Time passes quickly and the future remains uncertain. Live fully and wisely in the present.
One action at a time: Break life down into deliberate, mindful actions rather than allowing yourself to feel overwhelmed or rushed.
Practice digital minimalism: Create boundaries around technology use. Designate phone-free spaces and times.
Engage your senses: When your mind wanders, gently bring it back by noticing what you can see, hear, feel, smell, and taste in the present moment.
A Final Thought
In Arabic, the word “Labbayk” means “I am here at your service.” It’s not just about presence — it’s about showing up fully, with intention, readiness, and heart.
What might shift if we approached each moment, each task, and each conversation with that same spirit?
Labbayk.
Thank you for being here — truly here.