Instructions for Living a Life

Mary Oliver is a wonderful America poet, reflective of life and all its natural wonders. In her book, Red Bird: Poems, she writes:

INSTRUCTIONS FOR LIVING A LIFE:

Pay attention.

Be astonished.

Tell about it.

Mary Oliver

So much wisdom in so few words. If I were to delve just a hint deeper, one step further and beyond, I would add the following:

INSTRUCTIONS FOR LIVING A LIFE:

Pay attention…

particularly to all that is good

Be astonished…

by the simple beauty in everyday things

Tell about it…

as an invitation for others to join

Sometimes in the midst of life, as harried and chaotic as it tends to be, a set of simple instructions serve as a wonderful reminder, do not miss the incredible world around you.

Do not allow all that is horrible, and negative, and painful to distract you from all that is positive and beautiful. The quality of your life will be determined by how you choose to see the world. May you never stop paying attention, and never stop being astonished.