Well, how did it go yesterday? Were you able to make it outside? Did you spend 15 minutes communing in nature? If you did, good for you! If not, I hope that you have placed it on your To Do list. Because, hey, it’s time for Day 3.

I believe that these 30 days are for everyone. Men, women, singles, marrieds, parents, etc. I definitely believe it. That said, today’s challenge will be different for everyone. Today’s challenge is to BE PRESENT in the life of someone. You decide for how long, but I want you to look a real, live person straight in the eyeballs today. Talk to them, engage them in conversation, give them a hug if necessary. (I’m not a touch-er, but I’ve learned the value of a well-timed hug.)

Why? Why is this important? Because, friends, we are DISTRACTED. And, as Paul said in 1 Timothy, “of whom I am the foremost.” Ugh. In all honesty, I can get so distracted that I know I am probably actually hurting the people that I am with.

Years ago (in 1978) Richard Foster, author of Celebration of Discipline said the following, “Superficiality is the curse of our age. The desperate need today is not for a greater number of intelligent people, or gifted people, but for deep people.” His son Nathan, nearly 40 years later in 2014 said, “Distraction is the curse of our age. The desperate need today is not for a greater number of efficient people, or busy people, but for present people.” Oh, how both ring so very true! As a mom, I am ashamed to say that I have been more into my phone than what my child was saying to me in the moment. I’ve also been tempted to spend time taking great photos instead of actually living in the real, live moment! How unfortunate.

Here is why I say that the challenge will look different for each of us. I have two other people in my home with whom I can easily engage. If you are single and live alone, this might take more of an effort. It is equally important, though, so no excuses. Today, whether at work, in the supermarket, out and about, or very intentionally over coffee or dinner BE PRESENT in the life of someone. I want you to look them in the eye when they talk to you. Repeat what they tell you. Listen to them. Hear their heart. Practice being present. No pictures. No selfies. No “proof” that you engaged with someone except the feelings that come with knowing that you listened to someone who needed you today.

You are loved, and now it is your turn to pay that love forward.