the art of noticing
I am trying to intentionally slow down when I spend time outdoors each day.
When outside, whether visiting the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum or my own prayer garden, walking slowly and noticing is a discipline that I hope to better develop.
In fact, the pictures each week from “Around the Prayer Garden” are the result of slowing down to carefully observe.
This practice can reveal many surprises because, in its complexity, nature is always changing.
A bright new bloom to enjoy.
An unusual insect to identify.
A fluorescent pink sunset to take in.
An intricate bird’s nest to study.
A fluttering moth to follow.
I am trying to intentionally slow down when I spend time outdoors each day.
When outside, whether visiting the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum or my own prayer garden, walking slowly and noticing is a discipline that I hope to better develop.
In fact, the pictures each week from “Around the Prayer Garden” are the result of slowing down to carefully observe.
This practice can reveal many surprises because, in its complexity, nature is always changing.
A bright new bloom to enjoy.
An unusual insect to identify.
A fluorescent pink sunset to take in.
An intricate bird’s nest to study.
A fluttering moth to follow.
How often do you slow down long enough to notice nature in your own world?
God’s glorious creation is worthy of our attention. We can learn so much about life through its natural rhythm - lessons in patience, resilience, beauty, harmony, birth and death abound.
On the sixth day of creation,
God saw all that he had made, and it was very good indeed.
Genesis 1:31 CSB
God has called His creation very good for a reason. It is His beautiful gift to us. We simply must choose to notice it.
Here are some quick steps to help you slow down and notice more often:
Go for a nature walk and intentionally walk slowly.
Stop frequently to study whatever is in your path.
Be sure to have your phone ready so you can snap a quick picture of the interesting things you find.
Take the time to identify and learn the names of new findings.
We will grow in our relationship to the Creator as we observe and wonder at all that He has made. His creation is marvelous!
Today is a GOOD day!
~Natalie