Life is filled with moments of wonder and awe—if we choose to notice them. I recently spent a month on the Gulf Coast, where each day gifted me a different sunset. Some were breathtakingly vibrant, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, while others were tucked behind the clouds, offering only a soft glow. No matter their form, I was in awe of each one. Similarly, every time I drive into Chicago, I find myself mesmerized by the skyline, no matter how many times I’ve seen it. While watching a sunset with a new friend, she remarked that the locals probably take it for granted. And while that may be true, I do my best to appreciate the wonder and awe of each day. I encourage you to do the same.
Life brings moments of celebration and times of struggle or sorrow. Wherever you are today, I invite you to pause and appreciate the wonder and awe surrounding you.
Moving forward, I invite you to:
Start a Wonder Journal. Each day, take a few moments to write down something that filled you with awe. It could be as grand as a stunning sunset or as simple as how sunlight filters through the trees. This practice trains your mind to notice and appreciate the beauty around you.
Engage Your Senses. Pay attention to what you see, hear, feel, smell, and taste. Listen to the sound of laughter, feel the sun’s warmth on your skin, or take in the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. The more you engage your senses, the more present and appreciative you become.
Change Your Perspective. Sometimes, all it takes to reignite a sense of wonder is seeing something familiar in a new way. Take a different route on your walk, explore a new neighborhood, or visit a local landmark you’ve overlooked. Seeing the world with fresh eyes can bring back that sense of awe. I love to explore touristy areas and where locals hang out.
Spend Time in Nature. Whether it’s watching the waves crash onto the shore, standing beneath a starry sky, or feeling the crisp air on an autumn morning, nature has a way of reminding us of the vast beauty and magic of the world.
Each day holds something extraordinary waiting to be noticed. Let’s embrace the wonder and awe that surrounds us, one moment at a time.
Affirmation:
My life is filled with wonder and awe. |
Words to Love By:
The world is full of magical things patiently waiting for our senses to grow sharper. – W.B. Yeats
Instructions for living a life: Pay attention. Be astonished. Tell about it. – Mary Oliver
Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better. – Albert Einstein
Sounds for Your Soul:
