Monday Morning Musings: A Reflection on Bil Keane’s Timeless Wisdom
“Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift, which is why we call it the present.”
Bil Keane
Have you ever experienced the feeling that despite being surrounded by people, they somehow seem distant and disconnected? How often do you catch yourself drifting away during meetings or social gatherings, distracted by your phone or wandering thoughts? Monday mornings, especially when accompanied by gloomy weather like the rain outside my window, can be particularly challenging.
But even on the sunniest of Mondays, we can all relate to that initial struggle to get into the groove. One thing that consistently helps me combat this morning malaise is my meditation routine. As I followed my usual morning ritual today, I reached for my trusted Insight Timer app — for the 1,129th time, to be exact. I would not be as successful in my mindfulness journey without it. Today marked a personal milestone: my 903rd consecutive day of meditation. And within that app lies a little ritual that has become an essential part of my mornings — the daily quote.
Today’s quote was a classic from Bil Keane, the renowned American cartoonist behind “The Family Circus.” For over five decades, Keane graced the pages of newspapers with his endearing comic strip, capturing the essence of family life. Even after his passing in 2011, the torch was admirably carried by his son, Jeff Keane, who continued the heartwarming legacy. The timeless humor and profound insights into the triumphs and tribulations of family dynamics never cease to bring a smile to my face and remind us all of the power of love, laughter, and forgiveness.
Bil Keane’s cartoon shows Dolly talking to one of her little brothers as they sit together on the grass. Her words, though simple, resound with a profound message: “Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift, which is why we call it the present.” This statement beautifully encapsulates the essence of appreciating the present moment. It reminds us to cherish the here and now, and not get too caught up in dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.
A Simple Yet Powerful Message
The simplicity of this message is what truly strikes a chord with me. It paints a clear picture in my mind, emphasizing the importance of embracing the gift of today. In our fast-paced world, it is all too easy to get caught up in the constant distractions and to lose sight of the present moment. How many times have you been with friends and family in the same room, yet their attention on the miniature screens as opposed to engaging with one another.
Keane’s words serve as a gentle reminder to remove ourselves from the endless cycle of regrets and anxieties, and instead focus on the beauty and opportunities that exist in front of us.
Carpe Diem: Embracing Each Moment
In Japanese culture, there exists a beautiful proverb known as Ichigo ichie, which translates to “one time, one meeting.” This profound concept reminds us to seize the opportunity presented by each passing moment. Every encounter, no matter how ordinary or seemingly unremarkable, is to be embraced and cherished.
This proverb encapsulates the essence of being fully present and appreciating the uniqueness of every experience. It serves as a profound reminder that these fleeting moments will never be replicated, urging us to savor them to the fullest. So, let us embrace the philosophy of Ichigo ichie and live each moment with a sense of wonder and gratitude.
This perspective encourages us to embrace gratitude and mindfulness, reminding us to fully engage in our day-to-day experiences. It teaches us to appreciate the present as a precious gift, allowing us to savor the little joys, find peace in chaos, and cultivate a deep sense of contentment. Often, we find ourselves weighed down by the past and consumed by worries about the future in our fast-paced world.
However, as Keane wisely suggests, it is essential to shift our focus to the present moment, recognizing its simplicity and clarity. This shift enables us to let go of the burdens of the past, live free from the anxieties of the future, and truly cherish the irreplaceable gift of the present.
Life is bound to throw us curveballs, forcing us to encounter unexpected twists and turns. Whether it’s the sudden loss of a friend or loved one, or the unforeseen termination of a job, these events are inevitable. How we navigate through these challenges will greatly influence our future.
Although the future remains cloaked in uncertainty, we can find solace in the present moment. It is within this moment that we can relish in the joys, share laughter, and foster meaningful connections with the ones who hold significance in our lives. Therefore, it becomes crucial to remain present and not constantly be fixated on screens, allowing us to truly embrace all that life has to offer.
Keane’s wisdom finds particular resonance in today’s world, where the relentless onslaught of information and digital distractions threatens to sweep us away. In acknowledging this challenge, maintaining mindfulness can be difficult amidst the constant bombardment of notifications, emails, and social media updates. However, it is precisely in these moments that mindfulness becomes most crucial.
Stay Present
5 Techniques to Foster Mindfulness and Embrace the Now- Think BEERR
Get ready to explore 5 incredible tools that have truly transformed my mindfulness journey. But before we dive into the details, let’s raise a glass to the cleverly humorous BEERR acronym, which pairs well with these practices (pun intended!). So, grab a seat, sip some mindfulness, and let’s explore how each method can help you cultivate peace and awareness in your daily life.
1. Breathe mindfully as you embark on a journey of inner calm and presence.
Take a few deep breaths, allowing the air to fill your lungs and then gently release. As you do so, feel the sensation of the breath entering and leaving your body, a steady rhythm that grounds you in the present moment.
Let go of any distractions, allowing your awareness to fully rest on the soothing flow of your breath. With each inhale, invite relaxation and clarity into your being; with each exhale, let go of any tension or worries. This simple act of mindful breathing holds the key to cultivating a peaceful state of mind and cultivating a deeper connection with your inner self.

2. Engage Your Senses
Tune into your surroundings and allow yourself to fully immerse in them. Pay attention to the sights that unfold before your eyes, taking in the vibrant colors, intricate details, and beautiful landscapes.
Listen carefully to the sounds that reach your ears, whether it’s the gentle rustling of leaves in the wind, the melodic chirping of birds, or the rhythmic crashing of waves against the shore. Notice the scents that waft through the air, from the fragrant blooms of flowers to the earthy aroma after rainfall.
Take pleasure in the diverse flavors that dance on your taste buds, savoring each bite and sip. And don’t forget to relish the tactile sensations that come with touch – the softness of a petal, the coolness of water, or the warmth of a loved one’s embrace. By engaging your senses, you not only awaken a deeper awareness of the present moment but also cultivate a greater appreciation for the wonders that surround us every day.

3. Embrace Non-Judgment: Observing Thoughts and Feelings with an Open Mind
Observing your thoughts and feeling without judgement is a powerful practice that allows you to become more aware of your internal experience. By taking a step back and simply observing without judgment, you create space for self-reflection and insight. This practice encourages mindfulness and helps you develop a deeper understanding of your own mind and emotions.
Instead of getting caught up in the content of your thoughts and becoming overwhelmed by your emotions, you can cultivate a sense of detachment and perspective. This allows you to respond to situations with greater clarity and wisdom, rather than reacting impulsively. So, take some time each day to sit quietly and observe your thoughts and feelings. Allow them to come and go, without clinging to them or pushing them away. Embrace this practice as a way to cultivate inner peace and self-awareness.
4. Release the Past and Future:
In order to experience true peace and contentment, it is crucial to let go of the burdens of the past and the anxieties about the future. By dwelling on past mistakes, regrets, or resentments, we are unable to fully enjoy the present moment. Similarly, when we constantly worry about what might happen in the future, we are unable to fully appreciate the beauty and opportunities that exist in the here and now. Instead, we should strive to shift our focus to the present moment, embracing it with mindfulness and gratitude. By practicing meditation and focusing on the present, we can release ourselves from the shackles of the past and future, allowing ourselves to experience true freedom and inner peace. If you’d like to explore this further, you can find a helpful meditation course on releasing anxiety from the past, present, and future here.
5. Return to the Present: Mindfulness is a powerful practice that can help us to stay grounded and focused in the present moment. However, it’s not always easy to keep our minds from wandering. Our thoughts can easily drift to the past or future, causing stress and anxiety. The key is to gently guide our attention back to the present whenever we notice our mind wandering. With patience and persistence, mindfulness can become a natural part of our daily lives, helping us to find peace and joy in each moment. If you’re looking for guidance, you may find this helpful: Return to the Present Moment – 5 Minute Daily Insight.
Final Thoughts
In a world that ceaselessly propels us forward, Bil Keane’s words beckon us to pause, breathe, and embrace the present as the precious gift it truly is. Amidst the chaos and clamor of modern existence, we can find tranquility and meaning by simply being present in the here and now.
These techniques have proven to be invaluable on my mindfulness journey. By implementing the “BEERR” approach, I have learned to breathe mindfully, engage my senses, embrace non-judgment of thoughts and feelings, release the past, and always return to the present moment. These powerful practices have not only enhanced my mindfulness practice but have also provided a solid foundation for cultivating peace and awareness in everyday life.

In our fast-paced lives, it is easy to be caught up in a never-ending cycle of planning for the future or dwelling on the past. We are constantly bombarded with reminders to achieve more, buy more, be more. Yet, in this relentless pursuit, we often overlook the beauty and joy that surrounds us in the present moment. Bil Keane’s insightful words remind us to break free from this cycle of constant striving and to appreciate the beauty of the now.
By embracing the present, we can tap into a sense of gratitude and contentment. It allows us to fully experience the simple pleasures that life has to offer – the warmth of the sun on our skin, the sound of laughter, the taste of a delicious meal.
When we let go of our worries and immerse ourselves in the present moment, we become more aware of the small miracles that often go unnoticed. Keane’s quote serves as a gentle nudge to slow down, appreciate the present, and embark on this day with a renewed commitment to savor the gift of the present moment.
Let’s stay present and allow its boundless beauty to guide us on a path of true fulfillment! With each precious moment, let’s tap into a deep sense of gratitude for the gift of now. Together, let’s seize the day and savor life’s wonders as they effortlessly unfold before us. This beautiful journey of presence awaits, and I have no doubt that with the BEERR technique – Breathe, Engage Senses, Embrace Non-judgment, Release the Past, and Return to the Present – we will thrive in our quest for a bright and fulfilling future. Stay inspired and let the magic of the present moment be your guiding light!
OM Shanti, Shanti, Shanti
Disclaimer: The insights and suggestions presented in this article are based solely on my personal experiences and the tools I’ve found effective in my own life. I am not a certified or licensed professional in any field, and the information provided should not be considered a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Individual experiences with mindfulness and personal growth practices may vary, and what works for one person may not work for another. It’s essential to consult with qualified professionals or experts in the relevant fields for personalized guidance or if you have specific concerns.
Please use your discretion and consider your unique circumstances when implementing any of the ideas or suggestions mentioned in this article. Always prioritize your well-being and consult appropriate professionals when necessary.