Normally, we do not so much look at things as overlook them.
Alan Watts
In seasons of changings and turnings, we are offered a fresh opportunity to wake up; to notice the beauty and wonder around us. We are invited to notice the tiny miracles which constantly unfold in our world. All it takes is a moment of our attention to pause and appreciate. A moment to breathe deeply, and notice the beauty.
“If you touch one thing with deep awareness, you touch everything.”
Thich Nhat Hanh
Did you spot the bluebird in the tree? The birds gather at dusk in the bamboo at the bottom of the garden. The air comes alive with cardinals, bluebirds, finches, and robins, calling out to one another and preparing for the night ahead. One only experiences their gathering if one comes outside and joins them at sunset. We experience beauty when we make ourselves available and open to witnessing it.
“The things that we perceive as beautiful may be different,
but the actual characteristics we ascribe to beautiful objects are similar.
Think about it.
When something strikes us as beautiful, it displays more presence and sharpness of shape and vividness of color, doesn’t it?
It stands out. It shines.
It seems almost iridescent
compared to the dullness of other objects less attractive.”
James Redfield, The Celestine Prophecy
Our attention is a powerful tool. When we give our attention to something, the experience is reciprocal. We are touched and changed, for better or worse. When we give our attention to what is beautiful, what is full of life; our own lives are touched with joy.
Photos by Woodland Gnome 2014
Forest Garden 
I did not spot the bluebird right away because I was distracted by what I think is a dogwood. One of the ways I followed the seasons was by following the dogwood by the pond (in Ohio). I have not seen any dogwoods on our property here. Might have to remedy that. Another beautiful post, WG. I hope you enjoyed the sun and warmth today. It got up to 60°F here today. I almost dissolved in the sun and warmth. 🙂
Dear Robin, Our garden is full of Dogwood 😉 One of the things I love about this garden. We’ve lost 3 to storms so far, but two of those are trying to sprout back. A wonderful way to track the seasons, as the Dogwood constantly changes. Arbor Day Foundation offers a great deal on them, if you don’t mind starting with very small trees. We actually got to the low 70s before the temps dropped again this afternoon, and the sky clouded over. We can see the approaching front. I moved pots and baskets (Violas and snaps) back under the overhang of the porch, as we prepared for more snow. I’m so glad you had a wonderful warm and sunny day, Robin, and hope you’re making small progress each day on preparing your garden. Have you found any hellebores in your garden yet?
Hello, Always something beautiful and inspiring each day. Your offerings are so appreciated. Even if I don’t read all the words, the photos lift my spirits. On these gray…late winter days…such a nice surprise each time. Thank you,
On Sun, Mar 2, 2014 at 9:30 AM, Forest Garden
Dear Trew,
I was thinking of you recently, and wondered how you two are making it through this winter. Yesterday’s post to the garden center was a trip with our mutual friend. Could you tell?
Thank you for the kind words. It means the world to know that sharing these simple photos brings you joy. After this next cold bit, I’m expecting spring to just burst out everywhere. No more hide and seek! The daffodils in our garden have been in bud for days- cautious to open… and I found tulip leaves poking up here and there around town today. Thank you for checking in on Forest Garden. Best wishes, WG
Redfield’s words reminded me of my own ~
“Beautiful is – just a smattering of Time’s smearing lines –
over, above, and on through the canvas full of stars in which
we live and have our being; thanks be to the Radiant Christ within.”
The larger perspective 😉 Lovely way to express it, Uncle Tree.
Your words are as beautiful as your photos.
Thank you very much, Barbara. Hope you are enjoying this beautiful day. Best wishes, WG
Yes! I spied the bluebird! 🙂 I’m also an Alan Watts fan from years back.
“Behold The Spirit” was first. I’m Keith Alan Watson, so is it a wonder
his name jumped out at me as I was eye-cruising the library shelves?
Have a cold, but wonderful Sunday! Peace and luvz, Uncle Tree
Thanks, Keith. 50 or more here today, so we have a brief reprieve to resupply. The sun is shining brightly- a true “sun-day.” Isn’t it wonderful how the books we need jump out of us? If you don’t yet know Redfield, he is an old friend of many years reading. I think you’ll find his books useful and fun to read. Peace and hugs, WG