Especially for Families – Presence

Books about presence

Sidewalk Flowers
by JonArno Lawson

Sidewalk Flowers is an ode to the importance of small things, small people and small gestures.
In this wordless picture book, a little girl collects wildflowers while her distracted father pays her little attention. Each flower becomes a gift, and whether the gift is noticed or ignored, both giver and recipient are transformed by their encounter.

 

 

 

 

 

Hurry Up and Wait
Maria Kalman and Daniel Handler

A whimsical collection of images captures people in motion—or not. In snapshots by some of the world’s most celebrated photographers, some people stride forth, dash across streets, race on bicycles, and jump over puddles, while others form snaking lines, daydream on park benches, and linger on sidewalks with friends. So what’s the rush? With 11 vibrant new illustrations by Kalman inspired by the photographs, and thought-provoking prose by Handler that ponders the merits of action, Hurry Up and Wait will charm readers of all ages.

 

 

Videos

A thoughtful animation on being present to your children.

Parenting with Presence with educator Susan Stiffelman.

 

A longer video on Being with your children by spiritual teacher Eckhart Tolle.