In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, it’s easy to lose sight of the profound importance of human connection. We often find ourselves rushing through interactions, multitasking during conversations, or avoiding meaningful engagement altogether. However, there is a transformative approach to relationships that can deepen our capacity for love and enrich our lives: practicing the presence of people.
This concept, explored in depth by author Mike Mason in his book “Practicing the Presence of People: How We Learn to Love,” offers a fresh perspective on how we can cultivate more meaningful connections with those around us. At its core, this practice is about learning to be fully present and attentive to others, seeing them as they truly are, and approaching each interaction with an open heart and mind.
The Inspiration Behind the Concept
Mason’s inspiration for this approach came from the classic devotional work “The Practice of the Presence of God” by Brother Lawrence. While Brother Lawrence’s focus was on maintaining a constant awareness of God’s presence, Mason had a profound realization: “Why not take all that I’ve learned about knowing God through contemplative prayer and apply it to knowing people? After all, since God is a person to whom we relate through prayer, shouldn’t the principles of prayer transfer to knowing other persons made in His image?”
This insight led Mason to explore how we can apply the same level of intentionality and presence to our relationships with others that we might bring to our spiritual practices. The result is a powerful framework for deepening our connections and learning to love more fully.
The Essence of Practicing the Presence of People
At its heart, practicing the presence of people is about cultivating a deep awareness and appreciation for the individuals we encounter in our daily lives. It involves:
Practical Steps for Practicing the Presence of People
While the concept may seem abstract, there are practical ways we can incorporate this practice into our daily lives:
Overcoming Challenges in Practicing Presence
While the benefits of practicing the presence of people are significant, it’s not always easy. Some common challenges include:
To overcome these challenges, it’s important to:
The Transformative Power of Presence
As we cultivate the practice of being present with others, we begin to experience profound shifts in our relationships and our own personal growth. Some of the benefits include:
Practicing Presence in Challenging Relationships
One of the most powerful aspects of this practice is its applicability to difficult relationships. Mason argues that “love is not a matter of being passive but of becoming wise”. By approaching challenging individuals or situations with an attitude of presence and openness, we can:
It’s important to note that practicing presence doesn’t mean tolerating abuse or remaining in unhealthy situations. Rather, it provides us with the wisdom and discernment to navigate difficult relationships with greater clarity and compassion.
Integrating the Practice into Daily Life
To truly benefit from practicing the presence of people, it needs to become an integral part of our daily lives. Some strategies for integration include:
Practicing the presence of people is not a destination but a lifelong journey of learning to love more fully and connect more deeply. As we embrace this practice, we open ourselves up to transformative experiences and relationships that enrich our lives in countless ways.
By approaching each interaction with intentionality, openness, and a willingness to see the image of God in them, we not only enhance our own lives but also contribute to a more compassionate and connected world. As Mason reminds us, “All the people in our lives have been given to us so that we might grow in love”. By embracing this perspective and committing to the practice of presence, we embark on a profound journey of personal and relational growth that has the power to transform our lives and the lives of those around us.
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