The Wonder of it All

Sometimes we get caught up in our daily lives and slowly lose the ability to see even the simple beauty which surrounds us. Eventually, all we see is the traffic and the laundry, our work and our chores ... the things that need to be done. Our senses become clogged by the silt of busy lives and hectic schedules. That's when a change of scene can do us the most good. For just as a bright light can temporarily ruin our night vision, so the bright lights, sounds and schedules of modern life can impair our perspective and leave us a bit discouraged. Having been out of town and out "in the wild" recently, I can attest that a little travel really can reawaken our senses, clear our minds and soothe our weary hearts. There is wonder and beauty all around us, but we become numb to it over time and a change of pace and environment can help us get back on track. For once we are refreshed and have seen a few sunsets in the wide outdoors, or even just slept in for a few days, the world looks completely different ... like focusing the lens on a camera just right. So, if your own life feels a little out of focus or something like a radio station that isn't quite tuned in, maybe you just need to take a day or two off and go someplace new. Mind you, we don't have to go far and we can escape for as little as a weekend or a day. But that change of pace just might be the ticket. Take that time for yourself, or with your spouse or kids, and you might just feel a whole lot better. Once you do, you may come back and discover once again that a new perspective will help you to see the wonder of it all ... even in your own backyard.

The Wonder of it All
Sometimes we need to slip away
From all that we're accustomed to
And break the routine of our lives
In places strange and new
For those moments bring perspective
To help us better understand
The larger world we must share
And our Creator's mighty hand
There are so many wonders
So much beauty to behold
More beautiful and precious
By far, than jewels or gold
Other people, other cultures
Near at hand, and far away
Who have so much to offer
As we wander on our way
Sometimes we need a fresh perspective
Beyond all familiar things
Before we see the wonder of it all
Such is the gift which travel brings
By Frank Carpenter