The simple act of noticing can transform daily routines into profound experiences. This realization emerged from personal reflections on habitual walks, particularly during the early months of the year when nature begins to awaken. The journey of self-discovery through observation began years ago, during childhood strolls to school, and has evolved into a rich practice of mindfulness.
Rediscovering Familiar Routes
The initial challenge was straightforward: find something new each day on the same well-trodden path. This quest took place in a suburban area characterized by leafy streets and diverse architecture, from Victorian homes to pre-war designs. The environment featured three churches and gardens framed by low walls. As a child, the focus was on the minute details, such as unique brick patterns around windows or newly painted doors. This habit of observation has persisted, now accompanied by dogs on walks that echo the past.
January serves as an especially rewarding time for such noticing. As the days gradually lengthen, snowdrops begin to emerge, marking the transition toward spring. These delicate white flowers, freed from their protective buds, nod gently in the leaf mould. The landscape also showcases catkins, with some still tightly wrapped while others stretch out as long, open streamers swaying in the wind. The anticipation of seeing a kingfisher adds an element of excitement to each walk.
Noticing as a Spiritual Practice
The practice of noticing aligns closely with the principles of mindfulness, a concept that has gained traction in contemporary discourse. While mindfulness may be regarded as a modern construct, the act of paying attention to the world around us offers a pathway to deeper spiritual awareness. As articulated by Wesley Vander Lugt, “God made the earth as his dwelling place, a place for God’s life to move and communicate itself.” This connection between noticing and spirituality suggests that the more one engages with their surroundings, the more profound the experience of the divine becomes.
In this context, noticing transcends mere observation; it becomes a way to invite a deeper presence into daily life. The concept of “God-space” emerges, where inviting the divine into one’s awareness reveals layers of beauty and complexity that may otherwise go unnoticed. Creation responds to attention, rewarding those who take the time to engage with it fully.
As individuals navigate their lives, the challenge remains: to notice the richness of the world that surrounds them. By doing so, they may discover not just beauty in nature, but also the profound presence of the divine in everyday moments. The practice of noticing is not merely a hobby; it is a journey toward a more engaged and meaningful existence.
