The rock band, Kansas, hit the nail on the head with 1977’s “Dust in the Wind” when it pointed out that, in the end, “…all we are is dust in the wind”. So, enjoy it while you can. With a revamped group lineup in 2020, Kansas strikes a nerve anew with its latest progressive rock anthem, “The Absence of Presence”.
You’re here, but you’re not really here. You hear, but you really don’t listen; you see, but you’re inattentive. Our digital addictions have rendered us far too remote far too often. And while COVID-19 has really tested us our patience, we can choose and rejoice in phone-free meals, quiet reading moments, and family game-playing, as we embrace real connectivity.
Brain neurochemicals release when we are in the moment. We’re not multi-taskers, a myth proven false in numerous studies- your brain focuses on one thing at a time; period. Kansas sings, “The absence of presence fills the air / I know you’re here but you’re really not there”. Is that how it feels to interact when a friend or loved one is physically present, but not really there?
Minds wonder and wander; thus being truly present is a trait sometimes lacking in our frenetic worlds as we cram too much into too little time. “I don’t have time” is an overused lament; the only thing you really do have control over is your own time. Use it wisely. Phone on vibrate- that’s not the answer. Phone off- now you’re in play. This “Groundhog Day” coronavirus existence has reminded us that we really do crave some physical connection with one another, at some level. Sharing experiences is usually more fun (and memorable) than going it alone, day after day.
If you’re often wrapped up in videogames, emails, chat rooms, venomous web troll parades, prurient rumors-du-jour websites, or just checking what you missed in the last five minutes on Facebook (clue: nothing!), then you might be here… but, not really.
It’s beautiful outside (even if it’s raining); do you even notice? Do you discern the diverse calls of local birds? Do you laugh with a loved one and completely abandon outside thoughts. Absence of being with family and time not spent in friendship moments is surely sad. We’ll get through it. Absence of yourself is sad, but controllable. Come on back; bring all of you. Get presents as you give presence.
Think about it…