Right Now, It’s Like This

Summary

The text is a reflective poem that emphasizes the importance of acceptance in facing life's myriad experiences.

Abstract

The poem, titled "Right Now, It’s Like This," is a contemplative piece that uses the metaphor of a tattoo to convey a profound message about embracing the present moment. The author imagines inscribing the phrase "Right now, it’s like this" on their wrist as a constant reminder to accept life as it unfolds, regardless of the circumstances. Whether dealing with the grief of losing a loved one, facing a dire health diagnosis, suffering from illness, being stuck in traffic, or confronting a marriage breakdown, the author asserts that this mantra can bring peace and perspective. The poem suggests that this simple phrase can be a powerful tool for mindfulness and resilience, helping one to navigate the overwhelming challenges of life by returning to the present.

Opinions

The author believes that the phrase "Right now, it’s like this" is a potent affirmation for acceptance and mindfulness.
The poem suggests that acceptance can help in coping with both the best and worst moments in life.
The author implies that embracing the present can provide a sense of control and peace, even in situations that are beyond one's control.
The inspiration for the poem, a meditation by Tamara Levitt, indicates the author's appreciation for mindfulness practices and their role in personal growth.
The repeated use of the phrase throughout the poem emphasizes the author's conviction in its transformative potential for dealing with life's various challenges.

A poem on learning acceptance.

I don’t have a tattoo but if I did I would brand my right wrist with the phrase Right now, it’s like this.

Life would stand no chance against me. In the hardest moments or the best moments, I would sit back and accept that Right now, it’s like this.

Even when the news of a loved one's death crushed my chest and spirit, I would sit back and accept that Right now, it’s like this.

Even if my test results came back not in my favor and Google diagnosed my imminent death, I would sit back and accept that Right now, it’s like this.

Even if the thermometer read 102 and the aches felt like I was mauled by a bear, I would sit back and accept that Right now, it’s like this.

Even if I was stuck in traffic late for the biggest meeting of my career, helplessly watching the time pass by, I would sit back and accept that Right now, it’s like this.

Even if my wife came home demanded a divorce where I had to give her half of everything, I would sit back and accept that Right now, it’s like this.

Such a powerful, life-changing phrase, Right now, it’s like this.

I better hurry and find a tattoo parlor.

This poem was inspired by the Daily Calm meditation today by Tamara Levitt called It’s Like This. This little, simple phrase helps me come back to the present moment when life becomes overwhelming with various challenges that we all face.