Buddy Wakefield is an American spoken-word artist and poet who’s been featured by NPR and the BBC for his talents. In 2001, he left his job as an executive assistant to perform in poetry venues throughout the United States for two years while mostly living out of his car. In addition to being a three-time winner of the Individual World Poetry Slam Finals, Wakefield has also dabbled in acting. His poetry often draws on moments shared with the people around him, from dysfunctional families to a roadside diner waitress. These words from his poem “Pretend” remind us to focus on being present as much as possible. After all, we never know what wisdom or joy we may gain by paying attention.