In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to fall into the habit of simply glancing over the things, people, and moments that surround us every day. We look, but do we truly see? The difference between looking and seeing is profound. Looking is a physical act—something we do without much thought. Seeing, on the other hand, is an art—a conscious choice to observe, appreciate, and understand the depth and richness of life.
When was the last time you truly noticed the details in your surroundings? The subtle colours in the sky at sunset, the texture of a leaf, or the expressions on the faces of those around you? These details, often overlooked, are the threads that weave the tapestry of our lives. When we take the time to observe, we open ourselves up to a world of endless fascination and inspiration. This also brings to our awareness that we are just one creation amongst others in this universe and that we co-exist for a reason.
Children are masters of seeing because they are naturally curious. They don’t just look at a flower—they explore it, touch it, smell it, and ask endless questions about it. As we grow older, this sense of curiosity can diminish, but it doesn’t have to. By nurturing our curiosity, we can rediscover the wonder in the world around us. Every day offers countless opportunities to learn something new, to be amazed by the ordinary, and to see the extraordinary in the mundane.
Consider a seemingly simple object, like a coffee cup. At first glance, it’s just a cup. But look closer—notice the way the light reflects off its surface, the tiny imperfections in its glaze, the warmth it holds as it cradles your favourite brew. This is more than just a cup; it’s a story. It’s a moment of comfort on a chilly morning, a vessel for conversation, a companion during quiet moments of reflection.
When we learn to see, we begin to appreciate the beauty in these small details. We start to understand that everything around us has a story to tell, a purpose, and a unique role in the grand narrative of life.
The same principle applies to the people in our lives. We might look at someone every day without truly seeing them. We see their faces, but do we notice the emotions behind their eyes? Do we observe the way they carry themselves, the subtle changes in their expressions, the unspoken words in their body language?
By taking the time to truly see the people around us, we foster deeper connections, greater empathy, and a stronger sense of community. We begin to understand that everyone has a story, and every story is worth listening to.
Yesterday, I saw a child riding a huge battery-operated truck, accompanied by her mother. The mother settled down on a bench near the play area while the child continued her driving adventure. A little later, the child rode up to an area where there was a ramp. She couldn’t manoeuvre her truck and struggled with the incline. As a spectator to this, I was hoping that the mother would look up from her phone, see her child’s struggle, and offer help or suggestions. But no—she never looked up, not even once. To my delight, the child did not give up. She kept on trying different moves to get her truck up the ramp. And she succeeded! I was overjoyed to witness this relentless determination and success. Yet, the sad part is that the mother never saw any part of this amazing event.
This small moment encapsulates the essence of truly seeing. How often do we miss out on witnessing incredible moments of growth, perseverance, and joy simply because we are not paying attention?
Life is a series of fleeting moments, and each one is an opportunity to see something incredible. The rustling of leaves in the wind, the laughter of children playing, the colours of the city at dusk—these are the moments that make life rich and vibrant. When we approach life with a sense of wonder and amazement, we transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. We learn to appreciate the present moment and find joy in the simplest things. Once we are consciously aware of the present moment, we will automatically be mindful and it will reflect in every aspect of our being.
Open Your Eyes and See
I suggest you take a moment today to truly see. Look beyond the surface, observe with intention, and let yourself be curious. Ask questions, explore, and embrace the beauty of the world around you. When you start seeing rather than just looking, you’ll discover a world that is more vibrant, more meaningful, and more full of wonder than you ever imagined.
Life is a masterpiece waiting to be observed in all its detail. Don’t just look—see. And in seeing, find the magic that’s been there all along.
