When Does the Future Happen?

So, just when does the future happen?

If the past happens right now, what about the future? When does the future happen?

We like to think the future is something that’s going to happen (When? In the future, of course!)

Here’s another way of thinking about time. Think of a future event that is very likely to occur tomorrow—perhaps getting up in the morning and brushing your teeth. Of course, it’s going to happen. Then think of something that is very likely to happen imminently—like taking your next breath. Sure, it’s going to happen. Within a minute, it’s already happened.

If you continue to narrow down the difference between now and the future, when do you stop? What is the future? It’s just a mental construct—a mental construct that’s happening now.

The distinction between present and future is something we fabricate.

Didn’t the future just happen?