W is for Wonder

One of the biggest joys in having grandchildren to see the world through the eyes of a child again. When little C declares "Wow!!!", he is in wonder!

That's why I love to go on walks with my grandson outside and inside. I encourage him to (safely) touch and explore the world around him, whether it's a house plant leaf, a picture frame, a little dog, a blade of grass, muffin batter, ducks at the bird sanctuary, leaves on a tree, a new playground,  or a rock collection sitting in a bowl on the coffee table. He is fascinated by everything! Everything is new to him.

I hope he hangs onto his sense of wonder. I hope to encourage that. I think it starts with making time to see.

As I get older, I am realizing the joys of slowing down and really seeing things. Rushing less, enjoying more. Driving in the slow lane, looking at the houses as I drive by. Spending time browsing in a book store, instead of feeling pressured to find that book and leave.

I love to go for walks. I used to always pop earbuds in, but now when I head out, I focus more on looking and listening. I rarely take my phone anymore. I want to meditate, ponder, and wonder.

Life is so full of distractions and busyness. It seems inevitable that we will lose our sense of wonder as we grow up. But is it?

How do you regain or strengthen your sense of wonder?