22 May Take Time to Truly See

See to Become Observant and Aware

The other day, I was asked “did you see how big the roses have gotten?”  I responded, “Do you mean the rose bushes?  Are they getting tall?”  Then he says, “No, the ROSES.  They are huge.  Have you seen them?”  I was surprised because I didn’t know the roses were blooming because everyday I walked straight to my car without looking around.

So I decided to go take a look, and I see the biggest, hugest, reddest roses!  Mind you, these rose bushes are only a few years old, and last year the roses weren’t that big with a few blooms.  I expected to see the same, but these roses are amazing.  All this time, I could have been watching the first buds appear and bloom, but I was not paying attention to what is around me.  The first roses have already bloomed and are on their way to dying.  Of course, new flowers will take their places, but I missed the first blooms because I was not observant.

The same evening I came home to a beautiful vase full of roses so I was able to enjoy seeing the roses on their bush and again inside my home.

Instead of rushing through life, I needed to pay attention to my surroundings and appreciate and enjoy what is in front of me.  I was spending so much time focusing on getting from point A to point B that I didn’t fully experience actual moments while I was living them.  I also expected to see the same things as before, which limited my vision.

I decided to devote time to looking at the vegetables in my garden and the flowers and trees around my yard.  I no longer jump in my car and hurry into traffic to get to the next gig.  I have given myself permission to enjoy the ride.

Right now everything is blooming.  All the trees have green leaves.  Along the highway there are shades of greens, with touches of red mixed in, lots of white flowers, new smells, petals floating in the wind, and little seeds flying around. I am mindful during my commute now.  I even turned off the radio and rarely listen to music.  Enjoying the commute and scenery actually helps me to think and make future plans..

I know the term “mindfulness” has become very cliche, but being mindful actually means living in the experience.  Practice mindfulness by seeing your surroundings, observing differences, and allowing yourself to be a part of the what is happening. Give taking time to see a try, and let me know how it works for you.

In the words of India Arie, I give you your flowers now.