Even when we least expect it, look for it anyway
The world is full of magic things, patiently waiting for our senses to grow sharper. ― W.B. Yeats
Awe is a natural mood booster. If that is a new concept for you, read more about that here. If not, let’s explore ways we can sharpen our senses to experience more awe.
I recently wrote about finding awe every day. Even if we aren’t out and about, opportunities for awe live online through videos and in our own captured images. Then, I wrote about finding awe that I hadn’t yet noticed on a route that I have traveled regularly for over twenty years.
Finding awe everywhere takes practice.
A few days ago, I was driving to work. I thought the beautiful sunrise was my daily dose of awe. I accepted that. I enjoyed it.
Being stuck in traffic isn’t so bad with such an outstanding show of nature right beside me. I was content with my little glimpse of the awe-inspiring power of nature. I was in awe of the display that was unique that day as it is every single day.
When I parked on the street for work, I was definitely not expecting to feel any more awe.
I have organized clean-ups, but I work in four different neighborhoods and it would be a full-time job to make sustainable change. That gets me down a bit, but I remember the sunrise. I also still have hope that, in time, everyone will learn to experience awe and learn to care more for our earth.
I hoped maybe there would be something awe-inspiring on the way home. But, I had a busy day ahead of me so I started to gather my things to go inside.
Suddenly, when I looked to my right I saw some tiny white flecks on the fence that caught my eye. A glimmer of excitement rippled through my body.
I wondered if it was seed pods, morning dew collecting in the chilly morning air, or maybe the vine was dripping sap as part of its wintering process. I wasn’t expecting maple syrup or anything, but I was excited to get a closer look and find out what it was.
Wow! It was a seed pod like I have never seen before! I couldn’t believe how beautiful and intricate it was. And this delicate thing survives and even thrives, in this seemingly inconducive environment. I took a minute to enjoy the moment and to let the awemazing new experience find a place in my mind.
Then, I remembered this same space in the summer. I had an awe moment here before. There was more trash at that time, but I was in awe of the flowers that were fighting back.
In the summer, the even deeper feeling of awe came from the heart-shaped leaves of the morning glory vines.
It is easy to find awe in obvious places, like the ones that are posted daily on Instagram. But, finding awe in unexpected places requires an important prerequisite. Awe-sensitivity.
The good news, is that even if you are not currently awe-sensitive, you can work on it. Take time to notice things. Activate your child-like wonder to dig for a deeper understanding of what you see and to make connections.
This will push you to the feeling of vastness that requires accommodation. When we aproach things with a sense of wonder there will be elements that are far beyond our current understanding. The benefits of awe are many. Developing awe practices is worth your time.
When I first saw the small white flecks on the vine I thought it was drips or seed pods. The connection in my mind that forced me to take a closer look was fueled by past awe experiences and my growing fascination with seedpods, dew, sap, and raindrops. I have been noticing them throughout the seasons.
Just seeing those white flecks on the fence created a feeling of anticipation for another moment of awe because of these past memories:
Nature is my most sure source of awe. But, there are endless sources of awe. They can pop up even when we least expect it.
I write to encourage others to develop awe practices, increase awe-sensitivity, and slow down to enjoy the moments of awe that are waiting all around. When we learn to experience more awe in the world, I strongly believe we will treat the earth and our fellow earthlings with more kindness.
Thanks for reading. I hope everyone finds moments of awe and enjoys the many benefits that come with it.
Look for more daily experiences of awe. Awe reduces the stresses and difficulties of living. — Dacher Keltner, Ph.D.
The latest research suggests that taking the time to experience awe — whether through engaging with nature, enjoying great art or music, or even bingeing on breathtaking YouTube videos — may be a pathway to improving your life and relationships. — Summer Allen, Ph.D.
Sharing our experiences of feeling awe helps us etch those feelings in our memories. Our sharing can also evoke feelings of awe in others. If you would like to share your experiences of awe, join For Awe here!
Share Your Experiences of Feeling Awe
If you want more ideas about how to add awe practices to your life, or how to share your awe experiences, check out our prompts and challenges:
Awe Practices and Prompts
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