Have You Ever Stopped to Smell the Roses?

Have you ever stopped to think how life is passing you by? It is one of the ironies of our human existence, given the huge font of optimism that we are all imbued with, that death always seems to be for another day. – or for someone else. Yet, it comes to all of us, and when it is does, the condition is of course, permanent. Billions and billions of years, leading to ‘forever’ which is quite a difficult concept to grasp!

How wonderful it is therefore to savour the sweet and precious moments of life as they pass by. Not to be immune to the moment. Of course, it is first necessary to be able to recognise those moments. Fortunately, this is a technique that is not too difficult, given a bit of practice. Instead of rushing around and speeding between home and work, or to and from shopping, get into the habit of noticing and appreciating the beauty of even the smallest of objects. It could be a plant, animal, or even a cloud formation. Once into the correct mind frame, the magic moments come by at a frequent pace. They may provide a moment of quiet and reflection, and of deep satisfaction. Even better, some exquisite and intricate form that you have previously just taken for granted, will suddenly take on a new meaning. Once it is a habit to reflect on the passing surroundings, it happens that all things become a source of curiosity. Architecture, art and paintings, music, pottery, and all man made things become a source of burning interest. There is no end to the number of these moments! As William Shakespeare so ably wrote – ‘ I feel within me a peace above all earthly dignities, a still and quiet conscience ‘

There are objects of exquisite beauty, both natural, and man made all around us. Even a browse in a charity shop can yield surprising results. Items marked at a few cents or pence may well be something of stunning form and shape or of intricate design. Handmade items, made with loving care, can be unique. Buy something to cherish when you see it. In nature, that moment with a child or grandchild, perhaps sitting under a tree on a sunny day, studying the ants or bugs, will remain in the memory forever. After all, you won’t pass this way again!