Everyday Beauty

A friend made a very simple comment this morning that I've been thinking about ever since. The discussion was of being more intentional about noticing beauty in our lives, and Linda observed, "I've been doing the same thing, and it's amazing how lovely some everyday things are."

How true this is. A sad fact about human nature is that we tend to numb ourselves to the things we experience all the time. We overlook or tune them out.  

 If you've ever had a close call--something really scary like a medical emergency or serious accident--you may recall how, along with the waves of relief afterward at having avoided complete catastrophe, there came a renewed appreciation for things you had previously taken for granted. Colors seem brighter and sharper. Food tastes better. Everyday sounds are music to your ears.

What if we didn't wait for near disaster to savor what's right in front of us?

As I explained here a few days ago, I selected Focus as my Word of the Year for 2020, in part because I really want to get better at paying attention to the little things I too easily take for granted. As Linda said, it really is amazing how lovely some everyday things are. But I get in such a hurry to reach for the shiny object waaaaaay out there that I fail to even notice the beauty within arm's reach.

Look around... or even close your eyes.

What beauty do you notice? 

It might be subtle: a fragrance you associate with a fond memory or the graceful curve of the spoon on your dinner plate. An interesting texture, satisfying sound, or appealing color combination. An elegant turn of phrase, unexpected harmony, or the taste of nourishing food.

Consider spending a day or even an hour choosing to see the world through the eyes of an artist or a young child, full of wonder and infinite possibility.

a feather 

books

laughter

raindrops 

chocolate

spiderwebs 

birdsong

coins

chocolate

Where are you finding beauty?