What is it about a stunning view that fills us with awe? I’m no spring chicken, but no matter how many times I see a brightly colored, sky-on-fire sunset (or even sunrise), I can’t help but stop what I’m doing and just stand there looking at it in amazement.
It’s not just sunsets, though. It’s the majesty of the monuments in Washington DC. I drove past them for nearly 20 years and gawked like a tourist every single day. Even now, when we fly back to visit, I stare out the window of the plane to marvel at the iconic view.
Out west, it’s even easier to spot the type of view that stuns and captivates. On road trips there are places where you can see so far you wonder if you’re actually seeing the curvature of the Earth. There’s a spot on my frequent drive into town where I can see, off in the distance, several of the mountains that ring the Valley of the Sun. Their layers look like something out of a painting.
Then there’s the beauty of the everyday view. We recently went to dinner at a new friend’s home. As we sat on their patio, sipping welcome cocktails and nibbling on a nosh before our meal, I gazed out and stopped the conversation. I simply couldn’t help myself. I interrupted, “This is your view everyday?” They both smiled and nodded. Greg and I just sat there staring.
It’s not just the sky or scenery either. One of the best views in the whole world is someone you love sleeping soundly and peacefully. It may be a child or grandchild. It could be your daughter’s friends, finally collapsing after talking away the night at a slumber party. Maybe it’s your energetic, playful puppy finally succumbing to exhaustion and curling up next to you. It could be your husband or wife … safe, loved and happy … with visions of sugarplums dancing in their head.
The world’s spectacular views, from my living room to the other side of the world, remind me how great it is to be alive and curious and happy. Joy and gratitude are wonderful things and are always there for your enjoyment, you just have to open your eyes.
There’s a whole world out there just waiting to be explored. Let a view take your breath away.
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