Awesome is everywhere. Just the mere fact that we are here, together on this planet, doing this thing called “Life” is awesome! But do we notice it? Do we take the time to see the “Awe” that surrounds us?
We teach children how to measure
and how to weigh. We fail to
teach them how to revere,
how to sense wonder and awe.
— Harold S. Kushner
Recently, I found myself walking along the beach with my granddaughter. (Which, by the way, is awesome enough, right?)
Even though we were walking together, surrounded by awe-inspiring scenery all around, my mind was racing with the numerous tasks ahead in anticipation of the new year. I was lost in that mental checklist that causes situational blindness and long nights.
Just then a child's voice nearby exclaimed: Wow, look at these shells. It's a treasure!
Child-like faith reminds us to stay aware with a sense of discovery and gratitude. Rather than being inspired by the awe, I was terribly lost in the me-thinking flaw.
He who can no longer pause to wonder and stand rapt in awe, is as good as dead; his eyes are closed. — Albert Einstein
We all have the choice of seeing life as full of incredible wonder and possibilities. Experiencing such awe activates an important element of our brain, actually slows down heart rate improves our health, and enables greater perspective and insights.
Start by taking a walk around the campus, noticing those mostly overlooked details. Appreciate the incredible talents of colleagues and students, remember the kindness and generosity of others, and reflect on the inspirational moments happening here.
The whole earth is filled with awe at your wonders; where morning dawns, where evening fades, you call forth songs of joy. — Psalm 65:8
After all, shouldn't a school be an incubator of awe? Where wonder and curiosity are expertly nurtured through stages of growth til transformative inspiration happens? Look up, look around. Refuse to let that spirit of amazing possibilities run aground.
When we treat our journey as sacred, we make room for thankfulness and humility.
We don't do this work merely to get a paycheck. We enable others to learn and live a better life, to define and achieve their dreams, and to become awesome themselves!
Keep your eyes open to see the awes. Because that's how we sustain the joy.
