The Magnificence of Nature

We took a quick road trip to Omaha this weekend for my cousin's wedding.  It was a fun little adventure and we had a good time catching up with what seemed to be millions of family members.

  

I captured these photos on the way.  The clouds were just magnificent.  (For all you IPhone users, check out ShakeItPhoto - an app that allows you to take Polaroid images.  You can even shake your phone for faster developing. Way cool.)

I really enjoyed having a few moments of quiet time in the car.  I was mesmerized by the vibrant beauty of the changing cloud formations.  Paying attention to the clouds, I was reminded that when I take the time to really see the world around me, I feel more connected to what I'm experiencing, and I end up feeling more energized, happy and alive.

Allowing ourselves time for this simple practice, to really notice the things around us - especially the wonder of nature - is a great exercise in living more presently.  

Take some time today to stop, to notice, to observe and maybe even capture with your phone or camera - the every day things in your environment.  We all move too fast as it is, so slowing down is a great gift you can give yourself.  I think you'll be surprised at what you discover.  

Your Personal Reflection:  Enjoy this lovely quote from Eckhart Tolle, "Once there is a certain degree of Presence, of still and alert attention in human beings' perceptions, they can sense the divine life essence, the one indwelling consciousness or spirit in every creature, every life-form, recognize it as one with their own essence and so love it as themselves.  Until this happens, however, most humans see only the outer forms, unaware of the inner essence, just as they are unaware of their own essence and identify only with their own physical and psychological form."

So, today, take a few minutes to look up at the clouds, to hug a tree, to hold a stone or flower in your hand, and see its inner and outer beauty.  Can you see the life energy and feel a connection to its pure essence?  Can you become more aware of your own inner essence?  Remember, you are more than just physical form, but rather you are one with the source - and we are all connected.  And like the clouds, YOU are magnificent.