By Denise Seibert Townsend
Catholic Charities
How often do you truly take the time to slow down and be present with others? I often find myself guilty of planning my next task or project even as I am speaking to someone. While I try to avoid this, I know it happens more often than it should.
If we are only half-listening to our spouse or child while simultaneously checking emails or texts, we’re not truly present. If we rush through the grocery store while already planning the next five errands, we might miss the subtle look of sadness or distress on a cashier’s face.
I try to remind myself to be more present, and I believe God often provides moments to underscore the importance of being fully engaged with those around us.
A few weeks ago, I experienced one such moment. As I drove to the office that morning, my mind was racing through my day’s schedule — meetings, tasks, upcoming projects and more. Walking from the parking lot, I noticed a person lying on the sidewalk near the entrance. Concerned, I approached cautiously. After a couple of attempts to gently wake her, the woman stirred, bringing me an immediate sense of relief.
After a few minutes, the woman sat up. I gave her space but remained nearby, asking if I could help. She slowly began to share her story and her name, Madison. She had faced several hardships, and I listened carefully, considering how Catholic Charities might be able to assist. While Madison has a challenging journey ahead, our initial conversation focused on the present. Then, we began to discuss next steps. As our Catholic Charities team began making calls to connect her with needed resources, we waited together. Within about an hour, Madison had a plan for the day and, more importantly, a newfound sense of hope.
That morning, my interaction with Madison was a powerful reminder of the importance of being present with everyone you encounter. It is common for people to share that a Catholic Charities staff member was the first person who truly listened to their story and concerns, and I am often surprised when I hear this remark. While we may not always have a financial or tangible solution, by listening, we can still touch lives and offer hope.
May this serve as a reminder to take a few moments to slow down and be truly present with those around you — your family, friends, neighbors, co-workers and even strangers. When we do this, we begin to see more deeply that what truly matters are these human interactions — being present. You never know when you might touch someone at their lowest point and help bring them a small measure of hope. As St. Francis de Sales reminds us, “Let us strive to make the present moment beautiful!”
Denise Seibert Townsend is director of Catholic Charities for the Diocese of Evansville.