Beauty Magnified

In the month of May, nature bursts forth from the earth and sky with new life. As days grow longer and warmer, so much emerges from winter hibernation. There are spring showers from above and greening from below. Here in Connecticut, another new story is being written right before us about light and life and beauty. I feel energized, hopeful, and grateful. Regardless of what is going on in my life or in the world, I can look out my window or stand outdoors and once again be greeted by spring’s predictable new buds and birdsong. This is creation’s faithful response and affirmation of all that lives in a new season.

Location: Chelsea, NY

As always, and particularly at this time of year, I remember I am part of something so much bigger than the world of people and activities that fill and surround my days. Simply standing outdoors and using my peripheral vision, I exercise my eye muscles by looking as far as I can all around me—up and down, side to side, circling my eyes to the right and then to the left. I not only notice what I’m seeing. I also notice I’m being seen. The flower bud invites me to come closer and touch its colorful and textured shape. The chipmunk perches on the stone wall and watches me, asking me to return this acknowledgment. This doesn’t feel just like mutual admiration. This is about mutual affirmation of one another and this incredible world we live in.

“If we embrace the beauty of all creation, we find our own beauty magnified.” This insight comes from the Author and Contemplative Mystic Cole Arthur Riley, who understands the mystery and connection to all that is good and surrounds us in creation. Any beauty I may offer this world is connected to my relationship with who or what receives it and affirms it.

The sound of birds, the taste of wild berries, the sight of a spring bud ready to bloom, these are all exquisite, singular sensations freely offered to us. Ordinary blessings that become extraordinary. What beauty will you return and share with the world today? Perhaps a song, a gentle touch, a caring gaze?