Joe’s early spiritual practice was rigid—eating slowly, being “very present,” trying to appear controlled. He probably just looked stupid.
Then he read Thich Nhat Hanh on the pleasure of warm water while doing dishes. Joe did the same slow, present dishwashing—but enjoyed it. Same behavior, completely different experience.
“Presence isn’t a trying. Presence is the pleasure.”
The Difference
Spiritual performance: Slow, controlled, effortful, performing presence for self or others
Actual presence: Slow, sensual, pleasurable, enjoying the moment
Same external appearance. Completely different internal experience.
Why It Matters
If presence feels like work, you’re not present—you’re performing. Real presence is delicious. It’s noticing sensation, enjoying breath, savoring experience.
The Simple Practice
“The best description I’ve heard for it is the awareness of sensation moving through your body.”
Not trying to change anything. Just noticing that sensations exist and move. And enjoying that.
Related Concepts
- Pleasure signals safety to the nervous system
- Wanting is aliveness
- How you do something determines if you do it
- Searching for purpose avoids it