"I am here, fully present, without past regrets or future worries."

In the whirlwind of our daily lives, true contentment can often seem like an elusive dream. The constant churning of our thoughts, regrets from the past, and anxieties about the future often keep us from experiencing the beauty and serenity that exists in the present moment. Yet, contentment is not an unattainable goal; it's a state of being that can be unlocked by understanding and embracing a few fundamental keys.

1. Presence: Living in the present moment requires understanding a truth of reality. That being;  what is happening in this present moment is the only thing that truly matters, it’s the only time that is real. The past no longer exists and our memory of it can’t be trusted. The future has yet to come, and it does not help us to worry about it. The more we reflect on this truth, the more we unlock contentment.

   "I am here, fully present, without past regrets or future worries."

2. Compassion: can be challenging to cultivate. Empathizing with others, particularly when we haven't endured their suffering, is a difficult task. Instead, we aim to understand that suffering is a relative experience. What may appear as a minor hardship to us might be perceived as a profound ordeal by someone else. As our capacity for compassion grows, so does our sense of contentment.

   "I recognize the relativity of suffering & open my heart to the world with compassion for all."

    

3. Gratitude: is perhaps the most important foundation of contentment. By shifting our focus from what we lack to what we have, we do away with desire. Since desire and attachment, according to the Buddha, is the root of all suffering, without this, we are free to be content. 

   "I am grateful for the gifts of today, finding joy in the simplest of moments."

    

Daily Practice

By incorporating these keys into our daily lives, we can uncover a profound sense of contentment. These mantras and concepts serve as reminders and guiding stars on our journey toward inner peace. Embrace them, let them resonate within you, and experience the tranquility and fulfillment they bring to your life.