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Look


One of the most beautiful October sights in New England is the trees changing color. People travel long distances to witness nature’s annual transition from summer’s lush greens to winter’s stark umbers against a backdrop of snowy hills. Weather forecasters report on peak color locations week after week so people know where to look. Along with the colors, it’s a great time to pick apples, pumpkins and treat yourself to the other activities like hayrides and corn mazes.


It's easy to overlook the beauty that surrounds you when you just have to get to work or are dealing with a surly co-worker. It’s easy to dismiss what you experience daily if you are ill, or under pressure, or just keeping to yourself. The day-in and day-out can be a grind no matter how beautiful your surroundings. And, as the saying goes, familiarity breeds contempt.


I say, turn that saying on its head. Let familiarity be a blessing. Even when life is very busy you can find beauty as you go. If you have a backyard, look there. On your walk to work, look there. Maybe you live in the mountains or by a salty ocean. Look there. Everywhere you are, you can find beauty. A simple colorful leaf, a wren singing in a shrub, a seashell washed up on the shore. Look up at the stars. Look down at the roots and rocks. Notice the animals that live with you every day. See how a plant, shrub or tree has grown, or maybe has grown old and is now beginning to decay.


Look at everything. Look at everyone. It will not last forever. Whether you travel to see something special or you don’t, there are special things to see everywhere. Every day. Every moment.


You just have to look. Beauty is right there.

 

10/14/24

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