Rediscovering a sense of wonder

Mar 17, 2010, 12.00am IST
MARGUERITE THEOPHIL.


‘Wonder’ is one of those simple words we think we know the meaning of, till we begin to articulate what it really means to us.


We could say that wonder is present when we experience a powerful moment of awe, with its combination of dread and excitement, after which one seems to have a new perception and appreciation of life.


We might agree it arises from our natural, inborn curiosity about life, increasing our capacity to be enthusiastic explorers of the outer physical world through our senses, as well as of the inner world of the emotions and spirit through slowing down and reflection.


Or we might describe it as the capacity to remain aware and present to the delights of small things that easily go unnoticed, and to do this with undiluted joy. Much like when we were children.


Renowned ecological activist Rachel Carson declared: “If i had influence with the good fairy supposed to preside over the christening of all children, i should ask her gift to each child would be a sense of wonder so indestructible that it would last throughout life, as an unfailing antidote against the boredom and disenchantments of later years, the sterile preoccupation with things that are artificial, the alienation from the sources of our strength.” And, to keep alive an inborn sense of wonder without any such gift from the fairies – a child needs at least one adult who can share it, rediscovering with her the joy, excitement and mystery of the world we live in.

Each of us can be that adult who not only helps the child, but in greater measure helps ourselves.


Wonder isn’t something we do, but something that happens to us; we can’t force it – but by remaining open to it, we find it is actually in some way cultivable – because having a sense of wonder for grown-ups is actually a choice.


It is consciously being open, and responding to what seems miraculous and often inexplicable. It is also looking at reality, with its beauty as well as its flaws, and deciding it is precious and meaningful.


When we say, “I wonder ... ” it implies we don’t really know. So the stepping-off point to rediscover wonder is to give ourselves permission to be fresh, new learners or rediscoverers.


What triggers wonder in us is all around us, every moment. There is no end to the things that can awaken it – a starry night sky, tiny wildflowers hidden in the grass, the sound of flowing water, the touch of a loved one, a piece of music, the kindness of strangers, the laughter of a child, a frolicking puppy, a dramatic stormy night, a peaceful dawn.


But we can hardly be delighted, awestruck, or surprised when we are either overwhelmed with work or simply indifferent. When too busy, we don’t notice the subtle blessings in our surroundings. In the grip of indifference, we couldn’t care less; ‘So what?’ becomes our response instead of ‘Oh wow!’ Wonder is an antidote to both these conditions, awakening the positive qualities of humility and thankfulness.


In fact, rediscovering wonder can be seen as a spiritual practice, the first step of which is to rejoice in the play of our senses: smell, sight, touch, taste and hearing. You’ll never get anywhere with this practice though, by being in a hurry. Invite yourself to above all slow down, so you can tune into the varied world of this and that, which reveals the nourishing wonder of life, available to each of us in abundance.

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