Saturday, August 28, 2010

Joy: Paying Attention! :)

 "The capacity for delight is the gift of paying attention." -Julie Cameron

One gift Crystal gave Mary and I before we parted ways in June was a Gratitude journal. It's a book with blank pages for writing, but on every other page is a quote about thankfulness. Crystal took markers and wrote on some of the pages about what she was grateful for this year-- so beautiful!

I was flipping through the book today, and came across this quote. Also today, someone forwarded this YouTube video to me. Click to watch:  Pay Attention. :)

Not only did I learn what a carillon is, I also was watching the people as they were walking/sitting/going about their normal day and getting to where they needed to go. Some would stop, laugh, look up at the bell tower, and then keep walking; some would laugh to themselves, glance up, yet keep walking; and others made no outward signs that they recognized Lady Gaga's song coming from the carillon. But one thing is for sure: For those that were attentive to their surroundings, they sure were DELIGHTED! :)

Be present. Stop and smell the roses. Slow down. Relax. Pay attention to what your body is telling you. All these are things I need to remember as the busy school year starts up. I usually do a good job of being present, but this served as an amusing reminder, when paired with the wisdom from the Gratitude Journal. :)

And Happy Feast Day of St. Augustine!

Peace,
-Michelle

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