Several years ago, we celebrated the Festive Season with a reflection on the magic of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, a work which remains a joy for its tale and all its comedy — and a treasure trove of thought-provoking passages.
One that stands out now comes from a song performed in Act 2, Scene 3 by Feste the Jester: “Present mirth hath present laughter / What’s to come is still unsure.” (Listen above.) In context, the words emerge from a love song meant to entertain Duke Orsino’s household staff (read more about the Duke here).
But more broadly, the couplet captures the importance of fully living in the moment. At this time of year, when we focus so strongly on New Year’s resolutions and what we will do differently, it is easy to lose sight of the present. No question, a forward-looking perspective is necessary — but balanced with mindfulness, an awareness of the very moment in which we find ourselves. After all, as Shakespeare tells us, “What’s to come” is ultimately unknown.
This concept brings to mind the words of another more contemporary poet. In his song “Flying Hour,” George Harrison reminded his listener of the need to be here now: “Past is gone, thou canst not that recall / Future is not, may not be at all / Present is, improve the flying hour / Present only is within thy power.” (Listen to “Flying Hour” here.)
And like Shakespeare and Harrison themselves, the present is truly a gift to us all.
©2022