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Breathtaking

 


Every morning for the past two years I have woken up to breathtaking view of the city of Anchorage, the inlet and many, many gorgeous mountains – including even Mt. McKinley on some days. The first time my wife and I walked the lot, many years before we even considered buying it as a realistic possibility, the panoramic views were awe-inspiring.

Now that we enjoy that scenery every day, there is a risk that what was once breathtaking becomes commonplace. We could take that spectacle for granted, and instead of waking up with gratitude, we begin worrying about some story on the news feed, all the things we must get done today, the difficult conversation we need to have and the usual worries of the day.

Pretty quickly, what could have been a glorious morning rapidly fades into the background as the stress or monotony of everyday life takes over. It is all about what we chose to pay attention to.

If I let my mind focus on all the emails I must reply to, all the meetings scheduled, the errands I need to run, the workout I have to complete, it does not diminish the beauty of the rays of the rising sun dancing off the snow-capped mountain peaks, but it does diminish my experience of that grandeur. My eyes may see it, but my brain never really notices. It gets blurred out by the whirlwind in my mind.

For you, it may not be a postcard-like view, but there is something magnificent that once took your breath away. Maybe it is the sight of your sleeping child, the smile from your spouse, a hug from a loved one, or simply waking up with the opportunity to go out into the world and make an impact in the lives of those around you.

Whatever that thing is that used to bring you unavoidable joy, choose to notice it. Make a decision to pay attention to it. Do not let the cares and concerns of today overshadow it. Let it take your breath away once more. 

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