Amy Collette

I have a much better time when I go seeking adventure rather than just a workout. This morning I felt the pull of nature and knew I had to get outside, so I decided to explore an open space area called Rabbit Mountain. I had planned to do the loop trail – but so had everyone else. I wanted quiet, so I took the other trail. It was rocky and steep, so I had to concentrate on every step. And that meant that my thinking mind had a chance to shut off. Thank you! The planning and the spinning got quiet, too. And Spirit stepped in. Ahh. The clarity I had been looking for crept in when I least expected it: let go of the planning go and stay open to Wonder.

When I got to the top of the hill, there was a lone bench waiting for me to take a rest and absorb it all. You can’t plan moments of awe. Even in meditation, they don’t always come.

But keep waiting. Ask for those moments and the awareness to know when to listen.

I started off my morning seeing a black squirrel – the kind with long ears. It darted across the road and up a tree.

Then as I was driving, a huge bird launched out of a tree just ahead, and I followed it down the road. I sped up to get a better look and realized it was an owl! I’ve seen owls before, but only once in flight. It’s an impressive sight.

At lunchtime I went to my favorite spot on the creek. The red dragonflies I saw yesterday were there, mating in mid air.

I wonder why I see so many amazing things in one day. And the answer I get: you’re looking.

That’s really all it takes – awareness. And that comes with practice. I’ve developed a practice of noticing things I’m grateful for, and that has a way of attracting beauty and wonder. Try taking a few minutes every day to look around you. Find some beauty to appreciate – a sunset, a son or daughter, your partner, a tree changing colors. Breathe in the moment and feel it – breathe in again and let it settle in your body. With a third breath, set the intention to carry that feeling with you.