The Simplicity of Wonder

In the morning during my quiet time and breakfast, I enjoy this view of my backyard. The birds flit down to the birdfeeder, grab some seeds, and maybe even jump into the birdbath for a drink or bath. This year, I have watched corn grow from sprouts to tall stalks. The woods behind my house are home to a bald eagle's nest.

During this time I try not to look at my phone or my computer, desiring to enjoy the beauty of creation in my midst.

These moments remind me that we have lost a sense of awe.

We stare into our phones.

We sit inside and watch TV.

We listen to music constantly.

We do many things that distract us from the simple beauty all around us.

I plead just as guilty as everyone else. I miss the simplicity of wonder because I am too engulfed in the complex, artificial wonders we have created.

Don't hear me say that our phones or TV or music are bad. They aren't. But we shouldn't let them blind us and numb us to the simple beauty all around.

If you want to create space to experience and rediscover awe, you don't have to throw away your technology and live off the grid. It begins with small steps, like putting down your phone and watching a sunset or sitting to observe nature around you.

I enjoy my few minutes every morning connecting with creation. Watching the birds fly to and fro, thinking about how amazing the cycle of seasons is, seeing eagles soar across the sky, and listening to a gentle breeze or a summer storm. In those moments I experience the simplicity of wonder offered by the beautiful creation we have been given to care for during our time here.