On what sometimes seems like a regular basis I manage to get myself “wrapped around the axle” (as a friend of mine is fond of saying). I get laser-focused on something that seems to have gone wrong and then blow it completely out of proportion until it fills my whole awareness. To say this is an unhelpful character trait would be a massive understatement.

Which is why it is so helpful for me to take walks and fill my senses with the beauty that surrounds me. This morning on my hike, with fresh snow on the ground and temperatures hanging at about 8°F, I spent a lot of time simply standing still, followed by turning in circles, just to take it all in. The light and color in those minutes before sunrise flooded by senses and filled my soul. I remembered once again that I am deeply and intimately connected with the whole of creation. Whatever I was obsessing about slides into a saner and more realistic perspective. And all that is required is for me to show up, pay attention, and allow the awe and wonder to work its magic. You wouldn’t think I would forget something that simple and profoundly transforming, but I’ll need to remember again tomorrow (or 5 minutes from now). The good news is that the magic will still be there whenever I remember to look, and for that I am very grateful.