30 Days
Wonder is the beginning of wisdom
-Socrates
For me, it was a trip to Morocco. I was 21 years old and I am pretty sure I have never experienced anything like it since. A college student, consumed by my own insecurities, I wanted to obliterate any and all perceived shortcomings with perfectionism. Needless to say, it wasn’t working.
That spring, I had the amazing good fortune to sleep in the dessert with a group of young women. Many miraculous moments punctuated that trip, but the standout was surely waking up in the middle of the night because I was shivering from cold. Not exactly a welcome experience - until I looked up.
“Monica! Wake up!” I jostled my friend. “Look up!! You have to look up!”
It was our sky. The same sky that has been hanging over my head since the day I was born. But I had never seen it like that before: millions of shimmering stars - an overwhelming smear of sparkling confetti - set against a pitch black sky.
It was transcendence. It was awe. It lifted me above my mundane concerns, so that for a moment, I could be aware that there is so much more to behold.
“What is all this?” I wondered. “What the heck is all this?”
A question I am still asking today.
Now it’s your turn. When is a time you felt taken aback - overwhelmed by an experience of awe or moment or beauty? Perhaps it was a moment when you felt lifted from the regular concerns of day-to-day life. An amazing sunset, a mountain peak, a stunning conversation? Share what struck you most about that experience.
Optional
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Your options:
1) 3 Minute Meditation on Awe and Wonder
2) 8 Minute General Gratitude Meditation (if you practice with a Buddy)
OR
If you are short on time, this 3 breath practice can be done after you write your list:
With eyes closed or lowered gaze:
Inhale for 5 counts
Hold for 5 counts
On the exhale, call to mind the 1st item on your list.
Repeat with the second and third items
You can also try to add a smile or hand on chest to this practice
Gratitude Message for your Buddy
After writing, scroll down to the GREEN button: ‘SEND TODAY’S MESSAGE.’
DO NOT click on the PINK button at the bottom right or you will lose what you have written.
Optional prompt
Day 25: Ordinary Miracles
Today you’re invited to reflect on an experience of awe or wonder.