Awestruck
Several evenings ago, I was on Skype, talking with friends vacationing in France. Skype is magical. I could see my friends, flushed from a day of hiking and a sumptuous repast; and they could see me, offering their three dogs treats. I called Sears for them, checking to see if their new stove had been delivered. Then we practiced a gentle sequence of Qi Gong movements together. It was almost as if they were present in the room.
I was awestruck, thinking of everything it took to make this communication possible. Extraordinary technical advances in computing and the Internet are mind-boggling. But I also thought about the multitude of neural connections, hormonal changes and muscle contractions involved in a simple conversation, a keyboard strike or a visual shift in focus from keyboard to computer screen. We are downright amazing!
I am not new to the state of awe. I seek it out regularly, but usually in nature. Each day I head out to explore changes in the woods and fields near my house. I often go to “see God,” visiting a majestic view of Mt. Ascutney rising out of the Connecticut river basin with its alternating waves of field and forest.
Lately, however, I have been challenging myself to pay attention as I attend to household and office tasks. To discover the wonder in everyday events that I usually experience without a thought or care. To consciously express gratitude for these marvels that I may be taking for granted.
I remember what it was like to be three years old exploring the wash of color, movement and sound that surrounded me. Time moved very slowly then. I was often suspended in a fluid state of bliss and wordless gratitude for such beauty.
When we notice the present moment, and really notice it, we can’t help but stand in awe and gratitude. In such an alchemical moment, we experience the fullness of a life well-lived. We know without a doubt that our lives are complete as they are. There’s nothing to achieve. Nothing to strive for. Everything is just as it should be.
I am reminded of a powerful saying attributed to Lakota tribal leader and holy man Tasunka Witko (or Crazy Horse.) “It’s a good day to die,” he said. This seemingly simple expression of gratitude contains a challenge to each of us. A challenge to see the extraordinary in the ordinary and appreciate the gifts that each day brings.
Celebrating today!
Eliza
Creatives’ Coach Eliza Bergeson is the author of The Yes! in Success: How To Be The Star You Are And Live The Life You Love.
She works her magic with creative individuals—entrepreneurs, speakers, writers, visual and performing artists; people who are ready to transform bright vision into gratifying outcomes in their businesses and their lives. If that sounds like you, visit her site, www.elizabergeson.com, for more FREE success-building resources.
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