The Power of Presence; beyond First Impressions

What’s the first impression you want to give people?

Greet with confidence irrespective of appearances.

I’ve come to realize that first impressions aren’t about making a perfect image or adhering to societal norms. They’re about connecting with another soul on a deeper level. When I meet someone new, my aim is to create a space where they feel seen, heard, and valued.


I strive to approach each encounter with an open heart and a genuine spirit. I seek to acknowledge the unique spark within each individual, recognizing their potential for growth and transformation. By embracing their imperfections and celebrating their strengths, I hope to inspire them to step into their full power.


I believe that true connection happens when we’re willing to be vulnerable and authentic. By sharing my own experiences and struggles, I aim to create a sense of empathy and understanding. I want others to know that it’s okay to be imperfect, that it’s okay to make mistakes, and that it’s okay to seek help. It’s also ok to be proud and acknowledge achievements. It’s ok to be you, no more and no less.


Ultimately, I hope that my interactions leave a lasting impression, not because of my outward appearance or polished demeanor, but because of the positive energy and genuine care that I bring to each encounter. By fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance, I aim to create a world where everyone feels empowered to be their authentic selves.

~ on the sacredness of presence ~

It is almost afternoon. I’m stealing from the moment of silence an opportunity to do my free flow writing. It is such a relief to be sitting here just with music in my own presence, listening to my own body, my heart, and my mind speak.

The lines in the journal I am writing in, are lovely as guidelines, but they may also be limiting to the free flow writing objectives. Lines are helpful, but the free flow writing requires no boundaries. I am grateful for these times of silence and stillness.

I can almost see my soul rising up to say, “Here I am” Present within me, being me, feeding and nurturing my mind, body, and heart”. How I wish I could keep this sacred moment to be everlasting, as it is filled with calmness, equanimity, presence, and love.

Presence seems to be the key today, in the moment as it is such an essential experience of existence. I can hardly describe it, but it is here and now, with a great sense of feeling everything to be what it should be, with all the challenges and difficulties that are still latent in the background.

For now, I sit in my inner rune space, and I know all the forces of the universe and history streaming to me, coming together into a bigger movement of destiny. I could be in pursuit of destiny, but it seems it is okay to just enter into the silence and stillness and to do nothing.

I have never truly understood what it means in the Tao to do with our doing, but today I’m getting a small glimpse of what it means. I understand the value of the deep sacred exploration of my soul, and it is as important to be present as it is to be mindful of the body and filled with emotional intelligence of the heart.

In this moment of stillness, I am aware of the interconnectedness of all things. I am a part of the universe, and the universe is a part of me. I am grateful for the opportunity to be here and now, and to experience the presence of my soul.

© Jurgens Pieterse, 2023, All rights reserved.

~ On virtue and the present moment ~

~ On the Present Moment and Virtue ~

I withdraw into the quiet space of being. My body relaxes, my mind clears. I am all present in this moment.

I explore the universe within. Each virtue is a gift, and I have been cultivating them for many years. Yet I have not even scratched the surface of what is possible.

Today, I cast aside all comparisons with others, past or future. This is a moment for appreciating myself and my qualities, as they are. Nothing more, nothing less.

I know that many have advantages and have advanced further than me in life. But I am on my own path, at my own pace. It is time to simply look at where I am, by myself. Where others are is not important today.

The question to ask is, where am I now? What are the qualities in my life that are meaningful and manifesting? I return to relax in the virtues that I have cultivated. It brings me inner peace, calm, and equanimity.

When I am aligned with virtue, nothing can perturb my satisfaction. Life unfolds with effortless ease. There is no luck, only presence and joyful abundance.

Nothing gives clarity of mind like the lattice of virtue woven into my mind. With every thought, every breath, and every emotion, I am becoming more virtuous. When we enter the inner space, it is virtue that decorates the inner walls and simultaneously gives guidance towards becoming the sage I desire to be. Even if it is just for a moment, I live for the glimpse of what it means to fully embrace virtue in every aspect. I become deeper and more complete.

In my exploration of virtue I can conclude my findings:
– Virtues are not something that we achieve once and for all. They are a lifelong journey, and we will always be growing and learning.
– Virtues are not about being perfect. They are about striving to be the best version of ourselves.
– Virtues are not about being better than others. They are about being better than we were yesterday.
– Virtues are not about being happy all the time. They are about finding peace and contentment in the midst of the ups and downs of life.

© Jurgens Pieterse, 2023, All rights reserved.