We tend to be constantly looking for the next thing - tonight, tomorrow, the vacation in a few months, the summer (I am guilty of that for sure - my favorite season). We go about being in a state of unconsciousness for much of the day and don't even realize what is all around us or what is passing us by.
A great example is driving - how many times do you get to your destination and don't even remember driving there. A bit scary for sure. Or we pass by someone who just wants to connect with us - maybe a co-worker who is having a bad time, or a friend who is struggling with a family hardship. Both of whom would delight in a kind word from us if we would only stop and look around.
So on this Friday, slow down. Just be aware. The easy way is to just take a deep breath. Look around you - at the colors, the scents, the warmth of the room, a colorful flower, or the coldness of the winter air. You instantly get a fresh new perspective on the 'now' and, in turn, be open to amazing things you didn't even know where there. This moment is all we truly have and to be conscious is to be more alive.
So go ahead and enjoy the rest of the day. There is a hidden gift there somewhere, just waiting for you to open it.