Why do we suffer? Like a lot of you who would read this, I too ask the same question. Trying to answer that might lead us to an entirely philosophical and spiritual debate, which is not the aim of this piece. However, the question-what is the best way to diminish this suffering seems to often result in one answer-live in the now-in the present moment. This holds merit whether we arrive at it through the Zen or Buddhist path or through the Choice theory and Cognitive therapy path. And yet we find that living in the present is no easy task, although the present is all we have.

I recently came across a nice article by Pavel G. Somov, Ph.D about the Hadza Tribe (click here to read). The insight it provides is beautiful. I was struck by the simplicity and mindfulness humans are capable of. We have chosen our distractions and attached extraordinary importance to our pain it appears. This article about the tribe of Hadza reflects what we were in our hunter-gatherer days and without understanding what a great deal living in the present was about, simply did just that.

This article made me smile at both, the Hadza and at us…