MAGIC IN THE MUNDANE
The earthy floral aroma of tea brewing in my kettle in the meditative silence of morning is comforting. Sipping the same in my favourite nook in the garden is a perfect way to begin my day. The magic does not go even if I repeat the regimen. The daily grind pushes simple joys to the back burner. We ought to go on holiday to find them. Why not find them here and now? Vibrant wildflowers growing in the wilderness, the scent of fresh grass seeping through the cracked window, and bird song at the first light can fill your world with exhilaration in these infinitesimal yet momentous moments.
Hans Christian Anderson said it best, “the whole world is a series of miracles, but we are so used to them we call them everyday things.”
The hearty laugh of a friend, the playful eyes of my fur baby, heart-to-heart conversation with my teenager and the shine in my mother’s eyes upon seeing me are all heartwarming. There is solidarity in seeing a new moon with my mother that has stayed even when we share the experience over a phone call now. I visualise her smile at the glimpse of the crescent moon. One creates such precious memories by slowing down. The sound of chirping birds is musical if we stop by to take notice of it. Every morning is an opportunity to reboot and rebuild, wherein you write the narrative of your life. You can feel the magic in the mundane.
Life is arduous, but you can find the marvels hidden in the most unexpected places. Why not be a curator of your life, slowly cut the unnecessary till you have what you love? Hold onto the gesture that brought a smile to your face and warmed your heart. A favourite song, a good piece of music or whatever reminds you that the world is brimming with wonders to be cherished and appreciated. Everyday moments can create a blissful sanctuary amid an occupied day when we give them full attention and retain the childlike wonder, a reminder that magic is not only in fairy tales.
Japanese people turn ordinary tea-making into a magical ceremony by conscious, deliberate effort and setting up a serene environment with deep appreciation for the profound process. They even take tea drinking to a meditative moment wherein they relish the flavour and aroma of the tea. The art of tea making may seem an ordinary task, but viewed through the eyes of intention, it becomes a sacred ceremony. We live in a world that often rushes past us in a whirlwind of noise and distraction. The clamour of technology and the cacophony of our commitments can disconnect us from harmony and connection. The sacred time creates anchors that take us closer to ourselves and our loved ones. The minuscule acts imbued with intentions are the whispers that lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves. In the hurried world, craft daily magical rituals that feed the soul.
When you cultivate a sense of gratitude, it will bring appreciation hidden in the creases of life. A change in perspective and practice can do wonders. Cultivating a curious mind can be powerful in creating wonder. In the same way, practising mindfulness, wherein one is fully engaged in the moment to find beauty in the small moments. Connecting with nature has a way of inspiring awe and wonder in the mundane of life.
When it is impossible to go to a dream place, start small, make a cup of tea and find a nook in your garden that is refreshing and respects your solitude and enjoy it. Take a break from the gadgets to find your moments of peace amid the chaos, go for a walk in the park and enjoy the refreshing air there. When your life feels like an emotional roller coaster, find comfort in these simple rituals. Master a soul lesson to wade through turbulent times by gaining strength from these glimmers of hope.
Pictures from Google
