December 15

Cherishing small moments isn’t about forgetting the bigger picture. It’s the art of paying attention. Like adding color to a larger sketch, while the larger image may be the goal, the shades and textures – those small moments – make the picture complete. Small, fleeting moments are more than mere footnotes in a life’s story, but the colors and textures that can bring forth a renewed perspective. We may not always be able to fully appreciate their significance in real time, but with time, these moments often gain clarity and value.

This doesn’t mean that every single moment has to be seen as something with deep meaning. Instead, it’s about recognizing that the possibility remains in places that might normally be overlooked.

The extra care someone took in making sure everyone had somewhere to sit.

Having a sudden positive memory of someone you hadn’t thought about in years.

Noticing the attention to detail someone had in organizing something.

The right song that plays at the right moment.

An unexpected moment of laughter.

A much needed exhale.

A moment of rest.

It may take time to see these small things as valuable at times because often times, “value” is associated with things that are immediately and easily measurable, such as “how much time did we spent on that” or “how old are you?” Our daily lives are filled with questions that quantify and categorize. However, for as many reasons as there are for seeking instant understanding, there are also opportunities for reflection. To observe those intangible qualities and expand awareness, and a result, grow in gratitude…even before we see how it all “adds up.”

Allow yourself to notice. Allow yourself to pay attention. Allow yourself to observe and engage, in small ways, right here.