When I was in school, I had a college instructor who would always tell our class to be observers of life—to notice the details in everything, to ask questions, and to nurture curiosity. Though this advice was framed around design and visual communications, it resonated with me far beyond the classroom and has always stuck with me.
In design and business, we often hear that it’s the little details that make the difference. The small pieces add up to create the whole. But the same is true for life. It’s in the details that life becomes rich with meaning, creativity, and wisdom.
Details are the simple things like the acts of kindness, shared smiles, the expression of gratitude…But I often think that the most profound details are found in the natural world around us. Below is one of my favorite writings, a poem I wrote where I tried to capture this beautiful sentiment.
Be an Observer of Life
By Maria Gosur (2007)
Did you observe the vast blue sky?
Its arms were opened wide to you today.
Did you hear its message?
Dream big.
Did you observe the large bright sun?
It smiled and winked at you today.
Did you hear its message?
Stay optimistic.
Did you observe the subtle wind?
It whispered in your ear today.
Did you hear its message?
Take a calm, deep breath.
Did you observe the strong-willed flower?
It was growing in arid soil.
Did you hear its message?
Beauty is present in the impossible.
Did you observe the colorful, autumn leaf?
It understood your unease today.
Did you hear its message?
Seasons change.
Did you observe the light rainfall?
It was crying with you today.
Did you hear its message?
Your tears will dry.
Did you observe the courageous star?
It formed an image in the sky tonight.
Did you hear its message?
You can shine in the dark.
Did you observe life today?
It shared many secrets with you.
Did you hear its messages?
Or did you walk away unknowingly?
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