It had been exactly two years since I last stepped foot in the movie theaters, and after hearing from multiple sources that the new Spider-Man movie needed to be experienced on the big screen, I caved.

We entered the newest theater in San Francisco, and I found myself in awe. It’s been only two years, but apparently my last trip to the cinema was ancient compared to what this theater offered. Various rooms offering different experiences. From plush leather seats to the ones that moved, to audio-visual enhancements delivering scent, water splashes, and weather effects. 

At first I elbowed my husband for not buying the tickets for the 4-D room so I could feel and smell some of Spider-Man’s sweat, until reality got a hold of me. 

Life - I get to live this stuff everyday. No special room or special ticket required.

But isn’t it so human of us to dismiss the present with the “I wishes” or “if onlys?” Or to be lost in the endless scrolling, Netflix binging, or even non-stop working mode?

Whether we want to admit it or not, we take part in these thoughts and actions because we think something else is better than what’s in front of us. 

• If I work harder, I’ll feel more secure in my finances.
• If I could go on vacation like her, I’d be happier.
• Instagram ad: If I could dress like that, people would think better of me.

It’s not a crime to dream or to want better. But let’s be honest, even the coolest ad for shoes loses its shine a few scrolls later. 

So how can we stop this cycle? 

Be present. 

“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:34

Be grateful.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18

If you’re mentally present in every situation, you’ll see there’s so much to be grateful for. 

The playroom will be a place to play with your kids. The dining table will facilitate great conversations. The park down the street will be where you get to enjoy a little wind on your face. 

So while I might have missed out on a little whiff of Tom Holland’s version of Spider-Man sweat, the sweat beads forming on my little boy’s forehead after playing Spider-Man all day feels even better. And the next best part: no special ticket required.