Attention
“When it’s over, I want to say: all my life I was a bride married to amazement. I was the bridegroom, taking the world into my arms.” – Mary Oliver
As I waited for my oil to be changed and tires to be rotated, a gentleman sat down next to me on the bench. My head was down looking at my phone. He started a conversation about his son and football. I had the sense to put my phone aside and engage in the conversation for 10 minutes, even though he was a Packer fan (Viking jealousy). Small talk really, but he kept the conversation going, so I did as well.
A simple human exchange that makes you feel human again. What we pay attention to becomes our life, creating depth or mere speed, sometimes a mix of both. If we bring our head up long enough to pay attention, we find a world overflowing with vibrant color and filled with simple conversations that mean more than we know. Be amazed and embrace your life today, for that is all we are promised.
“To pay attention, this is our endless and proper work.” – Mary Oliver
This reminds me of a somewhat related occurrence not too long ago in our local grocery store. In the deli, there is a station where workers will build custom sandwiches for you. Well, recently, they provided the opportunity to order online, stop by, pick it up, and be on your way. I was giddy. Until I got back and began eating my lunch. I realized that I missed the human interaction with the worker. Finding out how her sore foot was doing, sharing upcoming travel plans, hoping together for the cooler weather to remain just a bit longer in Florida. Sometimes, I think going to get a sandwich for lunch has more to do with hunger of human interaction than it does hunger for food 😉 Thanks, as always, for the wonderful message.
Thank you for the thoughtful response you always are willing to share. I think the rise of social media is reflective of our need for connection. But there’s nothing better than in person interaction.
Sometimes its even more important that we are there for others who need attention…. and the universe knows that we can provide it. Being there for … whoever … is a gift for the world 🙂
Indeed
Very wise advice. Thank you for sharing. Love Jenna
Thanks
I love when we connect with others ~ even in random snippets of conversation! 🙂
We are all connected – have a great day!
You too! 🙂