Looking back at a picture and realizing that you were/are beautiful or that your life was awesome, but you didn't feel it at the time, is a little sad. You realize "In that moment I had no idea who I was or how great what I had was. I should have loved and appreciated myself more."
I have come to realize the beauty in paying attention to the now; If you don't you may miss out on a lot. What I focus on, and my happiness, is completely up to me. Looking at life from the grateful point of view makes the experience completely different. It's totally changed my outlook, my contentment, my level of gratitude, and my ability to show love to others and myself. Yes, live for the future (if we are lucky we will get there), but now is all we actually have. Feel the now, be happy in it, and let your spirit be huge in it.
Thank you to those around me who have loved me, supported me, saw the good in me, and helped me grow. Thankfully for me the list is long; you know who you are. Like the song says "I'M HAPPY."
Wonderful post, thanks for the reminder "...realize the beauty in paying attention to the now." Love it!
I love, love, love this post! It is so true, I've looked back in time and wondered why didn't I realize things were awesome back then. Thanks for the reminder to appreciate the here and now. Love you!