PEBBLE
Finding the awe in the ordinary makes it much more likely to find joy every day.
~Debra J. Solomon, written and shared by Debra in Kenosha, WI
BOULDER
One thing I’ve learned from traveling this year is that beautiful places aren’t necessarily more beautiful than home. They’re just unfamiliar enough that we actually pay attention. Imagine if we brought that same curiosity into our everyday lives. I think we’d all make better art. And better lives.
~Jenna Rainey, Watercolor Artist, shared by Tracy in Wautoma, WI
PONDER
The last few weeks have created several opportunities for me to enjoy some special moments of Big Awe. After several days of meandering through gorgeous fall colors in the mountains, I arrived back home in Cincinnati just in time to join almost two million other awe-seekers who descend on our city every other year for our astonishing light and art celebration known as Blink.
I love Big Awe moments because they invigorate my senses. They also help me appreciate the bounty of Ordinary Awe that surrounds me in my daily life. For example, I’m sitting in one of my favorite diners right this very moment as I’m working on this issue. I paused my writing for a few moments and looked around, marveling at the jovial conversations happening at several tables as well as the upbeat energy the staff here consistently sprinkle into their food and service. Glancing out the window, I noticed some sunshine and fall foliage peeking in from outside. It turns out today is serving up a generous helping of ordinary with an extra side of awe!
Wherever you are right now, can you look around and spy an ordinary object that is patiently waiting for you to notice its potential for awe? Take a moment to see it, savor it, thank it, and then you can jump back into your day.
Peace,
Paul
P.S. If you have an extra moment to forward this issue of Ripples to a friend or colleague, you might just add a little awe to their ordinary, too. #KeepRipplesFlowing