One thing I’ve known about in the past but which has really hit home as I pursue the program in humane education is that people react much better to something positive, or something beautiful, something small and simple that they can relate to, rather than an abstract whole world problem, something they have trouble picturing.
So below are my ideas of what are truly moments of beauty:
- Reading a facebook post of a friend who has recently become a mom via adoption, after years of trying to become pregnant. She broke down in tears when in a store with her child strapped to her chest, seeing all the Christmas decorations and realizing that this year, she wouldn’t face the holidays with sadness in her heart, but with a feeling of fullness and pure joy.
- The turning of the leaves from green to gold and bright red and orange. Realizing that New England doesn’t have a monopoly on beautiful fall foliage, after all.
- The amazement you feel at seeing one or two wild sunflowers still finding the courage to grow, weeks after the rest have died.
- The warmth of the sun on your face while you lie on your back and look up through the trees at the blue sky above you.
- The sound of children playing together at a party in the park, cheering for one little girl who *almost* makes that one perfect hit to the piñata that will grant all of them a good deal of candy.
- Seeing your dog literally smiling because she has found a home with people who really love her.
- Writing to further my dreams and listening to one of The Herd (Snuggles, to be exact), barking while he’s deep into a dream, nestled at my feet.
What are some moments of beauty that you’ve recently observed or felt in your life? Please feel free to share them in the comments. And if you’ve liked this post, or know someone who might benefit from reading it, please hit “Like” and then share it!
And as always, thank you for reading.
Chasing Simple Dreams 
Thank you for helping us remember to pay attention to beauty wherever we find it, Terri. It helps us stay grounded in what is at stake, and all the things in the world that are worth working to protect. Your post is a perfect way to start the week.
Thank you, Mary Pat, for commenting! I’m glad it helps readers to feel grounded. My goal with my blog is to encourage positivity (well, that’s one goal of it anwyway.) 🙂
I’ve seen lots of pretty trees turning, and gone for a walk with Katie through golden leaves. Even our own backyard was pretty until this last batch of rain went through. She’s enjoying the cooler weather. Me? Not so much!
LOL, I don’t blame you about not enjoying the cold weather. It’s not my bag of tea, either. I like it when it’s in the 40s or 50s and gray outside, so I feel comfy and cozy sitting inside with a good book, or writing. But I can imagine with Katie’s mass of fur, she likes the cold!! Give her a hug for me!
Thanks for your list. Being ‘present’ is the key to finding those small joys in life.
oh…love the dog..I can see her smile 🙂
Thank you! And yep, she smiles quite a lot these days… love her so much! And I try to be present as much as I can, but sometimes, it’s just difficult, you know?
I do know, Terri, it’s like meditation – sometimes the mind wonders.