Last week I received a beautiful gift from a friend who also happens to be one of my critique partners. She had asked for a favorite inspirational quote, then had it etched in leather and wound into a bracelet. I chose something from Mary Oliver:
Instructions for living a life:
Pay attention.
Be astonished.
Tell about it.
I put the bracelet on, and it felt like magic. Everywhere I went my mind filled with wonders that sparked my curiosity and filled me with awe.
Checking on the bluebirds, I marveled at the care taken to build the nest, protect the babies, and teach them to fledge. (They will soon be on their way!)
In the children’s garden at Longwood Gardens I stuck my nose in every herb, delighted by the wondrous smells. I jotted down every word I could think of to describe a smell – sharp, bitter, spicy, damp, fruity, delicate…I noticed so many that are also linked to tastes.
Yesterday, one of the women in the golf festival I was participating in was able to play from her wheelchair. Her special chair worked as her legs to lift her up where she then hit the ball using just one arm. Such grit, determination, and perseverance to do what she loves to do! It was a lesson that I won’t soon forget.
There are wondrous things happening in the world all around me every day. Maybe I don’t need a bracelet to tell me that, but somehow that bracelet with Mary Oliver’s words acted as a reminder not to miss out on life. It’s wonderful advice for everyone, but especially for a writer looking for stories to tell in new and wondrous ways.
What will astonish us today?
Imagine the Possibilities 
Sometimes we all need a catalyst to remind us to stop and see the wonders that surround us. What a thoughtful gift you received, Rose.
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ThNks, Bob. Hope you are well.
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What a gift! What a reminder to notice the joy all around. Thanks for sharing with us.
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Beautiful message! It’s funny, I was inspired by a yoga flow this morning which cemented overpowering messages from last weekend’s Heinemann Teacher Tour – be engaged, allow yourself time to recover, and take care of yourself so you can serve others. This line captured your sentiments completely: “I put the bracelet on, and it felt like magic.” May you continue to notice all the wonder around you!
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Thank you!
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This is so lovely. It reminds me of how summer feels as a teacher, more moments to slow down and just appreciate the simple moments around us. I’m resolved to make time for more noticing, astonishing, and writing throughout this (rapidly approaching) new school year. Thank you!
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What will astonish us today? It’s a good question to ask ourselves.
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Astonishment and magic – they go hand in hand to create an enchanted life. Thanks for reminding me of this Mary Oliver quote that I love too.
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