It's important to enjoy what you have now.

Embracing "today" and our experiences means living in the moment.

Living in the present can allow us to enjoy our lives more fully.

I slightly hyperventilate as I leave the shoe store with my new black patent leather loafers. I incredulously stare at my feet as they touch the sidewalk and slowly accept there is no going back, no returning the new shoes for they are officially worn, plus I purposely choose not to wear socks, which makes the shoes mine now and forever.

I smile—a huge, giggly, little girl smile even though I am 45—for today, finally, I defy them with my rebellious joyful abandonment.

From within, I hear my mother and grandmother’s mandates: Never wear new shoes out of the store. Save them in the box with the tissue paper and the paper stuffing inside. Save them for a specific occasion.

I respond aloud to their ancient commands that swirl within my mind: No, I will not.

As a child, I learned that such special occasions often come only after I outgrow my special new shoes, never to be worn. Then, in almost a ritualistic act, my mother gives them away, tissue paper and all, even the box, still crisp and unmarked.

I hear Mother’s voice as if she has seen my black patents: What are you doing? Now, you won’t have anything special to wear when the time........

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