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Motivation Mondays: AWE

03/10/2016
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“He who can no longer pause to wonder and stand rapt in awe is as good as dead; his eyes are closed.” Albert Einstein

Motivation Mondays: AWE - we encounter everyday epiphanies in nature and life...

Motivation Mondays: AWE – we encounter everyday epiphanies in nature and life…

Give yourself a gift of five minutes of contemplation in awe of everything you see around you. Go outside and turn your attention to the many miracles around you. This five-minute-a-day regimen of appreciation and gratitude will help you to focus your life in awe. Wayne Dyer

What comes to mind when you think of the word AWE? It can be described as a feeling of mixed emotions of reverence, respect, dread, and wonder inspired by authority, genius, great beauty, sublimity, or might – Wiki, and we experience some version of it in our interactions with nature, life, and other people. Even with all the strife and discontent we see in the world today, there is still much to feel awed, inspired, and encouraged by.

Recently, I was taking a walk on the Croton Aqueduct and had a moment of awe. It had rained a few days before, and the leaves on the trees shimmered in the light as lingering droplets of water reflected the sunlight like a beautiful chandelier. As I walked by some of my favorite and, yes, massive trees, I wondered how long it took to grow to that height and how much strength was in those tree trunks and branches around me. One of the many features I love about that space is the magnificent trees that lean into each other, creating an archway that shields us from the strong afternoon sun. A few minutes later, I walked past one of the tallest and most powerful-looking trees and heard a crash behind me. A huge branch had snapped off one of the trees, impaling its jagged edges into the soft earth. The earth shook, and all was quiet around me; even the chirping birds had been stilled by the sound of that falling branch.

In that moment, I was reminded of the power and presence those trees have in nature. They provide us with shade and offer sustenance to other life forms around them. When it is time to shed a branch or two and to recalibrate what each tree needs to stay alive, an excision occurs. This ebb and flow of life in nature creates awe because the timing is as perfect as the excision, and it occurs across the hierarchy of all living things, across the divide between animate and inanimate things. It is the same awe we bring to watching a volcano erupt, a spaceship take flight, and the gift of life arrive at the birth of a baby in our family. We can bring that same spirit to the work we do and the new skills we learn, helping us move ahead at work and at home. So, take some time to stop and show appreciation for all around you that make your life, your commute, and your efforts easier. We are surrounded by helpers who act gracefully to help us accomplish our goals.

READ: Stories of Awe and Abundance  by Jose Hobday

A Story: The Holy Man
Word spread across the countryside about the wise Holy Man who lived in a small house atop the mountain. A man from the village decided to make the long and difficult journey to visit him. When he arrived at the house, he saw an old servant inside who greeted him at the door. “I would like to see the wise Holy Man,” he said to the servant. The servant smiled and led him inside. As they walked through the house, the man from the village looked eagerly around, anticipating his encounter with the Holy Man. Before he knew it, he had been led to the back door and escorted outside. He stopped and turned to the servant,
“But I want to see the Holy Man!”
“You already have,” said the old man. “Everyone you may meet in life, even if they appear plain and insignificant… see each of them as a wise Holy Man. If you do this, then whatever problem you brought here today will be solved.”

A Story: In Awe
The Prince of Wu took a boat to Monkey Mountain. As soon as the monkeys saw him, they all fled in panic and hid in the treetops. One monkey, however, remained, completely unconcerned, swinging from branch to branch — an extraordinary display!
The Prince shot an arrow at the monkey, but the monkey dexterously caught the arrow in mid-flight. At this, the Prince ordered his attendants to attack in concert. In an instant the monkey was shot full of arrows and fell dead.
Then the King turned to his companion Yen Pu’i: “You see what happened?” he said. “This animal advertised his cleverness. He trusted in his own skill. He thought no one could touch him. Remember that! Do not rely on distinction and talent when you deal with men!”
When they returned home, Yen Pu’i became a disciple of a sage to rid himself of everything that made him outstanding. He renounced every pleasure. He learned to hide every “distinction.” Soon no one in the Kingdom knew what to make of him. Thus they held him in awe. Source: The Way Of Chuang Tzu

Motivation Mondays details are below. Join in! The themes for August  and September 2016 are:

SEPTEMBER
09/05 –   Labor Day,  International Day of Charity,  8 International Literacy Day
09/12 –  15 Day of Democracy Day,  17 Constitution Day
09/19 –  21 International Day of Peace/ World Peace Day, World Rhino Day
09/26 – National Preparedness Month, National Childhood Cancer Awareness, National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, National School Success Month, National Childhood Obesity Awareness

OCTOBER
10/03 – 2- 4 Rosh Hashanah,  6 German-American Day
10/10 –  10  Columbus Day, World Mental Health Day, 11 International Day of the Girl,  12 Yom Kippur
10/17 –   16 World Food Day / FAO World Food Day
10/24 –  24 United Nations Day,  28 National Chocolate Day, 29 National Cat Day, 30 Diwali
10/31 —  31 Halloween

 

Are You Looking for Ways to Stay Creative in 2016?

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– Join the Daily Post Post-a-day or Post-a-week Challenge.

 

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— Join the BlogHer Writing Lab

More Below!

“Gratitude bestows reverence, allowing us to encounter everyday epiphanies, those transcendent moments of awe that change forever how we experience life and the world.” John Milton

Motivation Mondays: AWE - we encounter everyday epiphanies in nature and life...

Motivation Mondays: AWE – we encounter everyday epiphanies in nature and life…

Motivation Mondays: AWE - we encounter everyday epiphanies in nature and life...

Motivation Mondays: AWE – we encounter everyday epiphanies in nature and life…

Two things awe me most, the starry sky above me and the moral law within me. Immanuel Kant
Because philosophy arises from awe, a philosopher is bound in his way to be a lover of myths and poetic fables. Poets and philosophers are alike in being big with wonder. Thomas Aquinas

Do you stop to consider the many ways life presents awe-inspiring moments for you daily? Yesterday marked the start of Rosh Hashanah, a two-day celebration of the Jewish New Year, and the first in a series of High Holy Days that signify the start of the sowing season, which will lead to growth and an eventual harvest. It reminded me of the seasons of life that every one of us goes through. Each new year, we begin with ideas, plans, and wishes of all the things we hope to accomplish by year-end. We sow seeds of hope through our actions, and if we stay focused and treat the opportunities that come our way with gratitude and reverence, we find the inner strength to get things done and even experience a few surprises along the way. While we might not always feel inspired by what we do, it is important to take some time off to walk and look at the world around us. When was the last time you looked at the trees and buildings on your street? When was the last time you made eye contact with a stranger and wished them well with greetings for a productive day? If we never allow our minds and hearts a chance to take in the beauty and even the simplicity of nature around us, we won’t have time to access that place of wonder within.

Does life have to be in perfect sync for us to appreciate its beauty? Of course not. Every day, we choose to tune in and tune out certain areas of our lives. When challenges come knocking, we let them sweep us into a dark hole and forget that our creative impulses can help us find solutions… However, those impulses need to be nurtured, stoked like coals in a fireplace, and fed a diet of gratitude and trust. If we never allow ourselves time for reflection and wonderment, we shut a crucial door to our own growth. Just before a major thunderstorm, our family cat gets skittish and starts running around the room, searching for an “ideal” hiding place. He darts here and there, tiring of each spot and seeking refuge in yet another corner of our home. After some time, he settles into an ideal corner from which he quickly bolts once the thundering starts. I find the behavior quite amusing, and yet, there is much to learn from it. We make an ideal setting and moment out of our space at any time. I can look out my picture windows into my yard and see the changing face of the fall season as a much-needed shift, or as an accumulation of debris. I can choose to be at peace with where I am as the thunder and lightning do their awesome dance, or I can be rattled and unsettled by it. Life is very much like that, and no one is spared the upheaval. What we must remember to do is to find those transcendent moments of awe and gratitude and trust that all is well… that all will be well.

READ: Awakening to Awe: Personal Stories of Profound Transformation by Kirk J. Schneider
The Book of Awesome & The Happiness Equation by Neil Pasricha (check out his website too).

A Story: Bull’s Eye
There was once a general of war who had spent his entire life fighting in campaigns for many kings. Now at the end of his career, he became tired of fighting. He had spent a lifetime perfecting his skill in all the arts of war, and his skill was famous, but he was weary and had but one wish: to spend the rest of his days studying archery, the one art of war he had not mastered.
The general did not want to learn archery to be a better fighter, but rather to study and reflect. He had heard of Master archers living in distant monasteries who spent a lifetime doing Nothing but perfecting their skill. Their life appealed to him, and so he retired from fighting and began to search for the Master archers.
After a long journey, the general found a monastery where the monks were devoted to archery. He entered the monastery and begged to join them and pass the remainder of his days on this earth studying archery.
For 10 years, that is what he did. Then, when he had perfected his skill as an archer, the abbot of the monastery came to the general and said, “It is time to leave.” The general was shocked, and he protested, saying that his life in the world outside the monastery was over. His only desire was to remain within the monastery walls and continue to meditate on the bow, the arrow, the target.
The general argued and pleaded with the abbot, but the abbot was resolute. He insisted that the general must leave. To advance his skill, the general needed to go out into the world and teach what he had learned.
And so he left the monastery. Once outside, the general had nowhere to go; he decided to return to the village of his birth. It was a long journey over many lands, but finally he neared the village. As he walked through the surrounding forest, he noticed a bull’s-eye on a tree, with an arrow in the exact center. The general was surprised by this and even more so when he noticed more trees with bull’s-eyes and arrows in the center. Soon he came to the farmlands, and there saw many barns and homes with bull’s-eyes and arrows dead center. He became agitated and walked quickly into the village center. There, on every wall of every building was a bull’s-eye with an arrow right in the center.
The peace he had gained from his years of monastic life was gone. He was indignant to find that after 10 years of study and reflection, there lived an archer more skilled than he. Quickly, he approached the elders of the town and demanded that the archer responsible for this perfection meet him at the edge of town by the mill, in one hour.
The general waited by the mill, but as the hour approached, no one came. There was, however, a young girl playing by the river. The girl noticed him and came over.
“Are you waiting for someone?” she asked, looking up at the general.
“Go away,” he said, irritated.
“No, no,” said the girl, “you look like you’re waiting for someone, and I was told to come and meet someone here.”
The general looked disbelievingly at the little girl and said, “I’m waiting for the Master archer responsible for the hundreds of perfect shots I have seen.”
“Well, that’s me then,” said the girl.
The general, feeling more indignant still, looked skeptically at the
girl. Finally, he said, “If you are telling the truth, then explain to me how you can get a perfect shot every single time you shoot your arrow.”
“That’s easy,” said the girl, brightening. “I take my arrow, and I draw it back very tight in the bow. Then I point it very, very straight and let it go. Wherever it lands, I draw a bull’s-eye.”

 

Have an awe-inspired week ahead!

 

Any Zen Antics stories via Goodweb.cn

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Positive Motivation Tip: The world is as we see it … see the awe around you and share your gratitude.

Motivation Mondays is open to anyone who wishes to share a motivational quote, photo, personal challenge, or a post that encourages others to start the week on an upbeat note.
Basic Instructions: Each week, I will have a Motivation word to help us create a response. (See listed words for the months above/below)
Email address: You may email or share your post as a comment, and I will add it to the round-up of related posts. email it to: contact(@)mirthandmotivation(.)com
Category tag: – Share your post using Motivation Mondays
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Dedicated Page: There is a dedicated page for Motivation Mondays. It has the same instructions and will include other helpful tools and a link to the round-up
Facebook Page: MotivationOnMondays. Join our page and add your post and/or any motivational piece you think will be helpful to others.
Facebook Community: We have a Facebook community forum to complement the page. It’s another way to share uplifting posts and thoughts. Please join in and add your voice.

Badge: – I created a fun badge using PicMonkey’s free photo editing tools. You can create your own, useWordPress’’ integrated tool on your blog, or use mine. (see dedicated page)
Tag: – Motivation Mondays
Hashtag: – #MotvnM
Related Posts

PHOTO CREDITS/ATTRIBUTIONS: All Photos –  Awe via Wikipedia, and/or Awe, Awesome Fall foliage, via Pixabay

Until Next Time…
Ask. Believe. Receive. ©
Elizabeth Obih-Frank
Mirth and Motivation
Positive Kismet

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from → Global & National Events, Grace & Gratitude, Motivation Mondays, Positive Advice, Posts & Photos 2016, StoryTelling, World of Books
187 Comments leave one →
  1. Cindy Ingalls permalink
    03/10/2016 5:00 pm

    Nature gives us so many things to be in awe of if you just stop and look. Perhaps if people did take a moment to be in awe, they would treat each other and our planet better.

    Reply
  2. Hey Sharonoox permalink
    03/10/2016 5:56 pm

    I like reading motivation quotes! It makes me feel more encourage and inspired. Thanks for sharing all these amazing posts.

    Reply
  3. Liz Mays permalink
    03/10/2016 6:40 pm

    Things that would normally be impressive definitely get tuned out sometimes. It’s good to step back and really appreciate some of the awe-inspiring things.

    Reply
  4. momknowsbest15 permalink
    03/10/2016 9:50 pm

    My awe this week is the 550 hot air balloons that are in the sky here. I am enjoying the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

    Reply
  5. MarciaF permalink
    03/10/2016 8:37 pm

    When we wish people Happy New Year (L’Shana Tova) for the holidays this month it’s a different form than Dec. 31st. It’s said more with compassion and a true caring.

    Reply
  6. Melanie Smith permalink
    03/10/2016 9:15 pm

    I love Mondays just because of these motivation posts. This one is amazing! Thank you!

    Reply
  7. adriana permalink
    03/10/2016 10:36 pm

    Learning to appreciate lifes beauty beyond hardships is so important. Another fun and inspirational post! Thanks so much for sharing this!

    Reply
  8. 3xhcch permalink
    04/10/2016 1:58 am

    Any scene of nature untouched by human hands leave in awe. We tend to be in awe with the big stuff, like mountains, waterfalls, the ocean, the moon. But small things can leave us in awe too, like mimosa leaves, and dew drops in the early morning. – Fred

    Reply
  9. Karlyn Flores permalink
    03/10/2016 11:40 pm

    Thanks for this another Monday good motivating stories. I am good to have a great weekend.

    Reply
  10. Mommy Roxi (@MommyRoxi) permalink
    04/10/2016 1:25 am

    Whenever we’re driving and I see the moon looking so big and bright, or the sun setting so beautifully, I always tell my husband and kids to take a moment to look and appreciate God’s creation. My husband finds it funny though, but I always say, “You gotta appreciate this because this is something man cannot make and yet it happens every day!”

    Reply
  11. Amber permalink
    04/10/2016 5:28 am

    Albert Einstein has the best quotes. He was a fascinating man.

    I am in awe of nature too.

    Reply
  12. Robin Rue permalink
    04/10/2016 5:53 am

    When I think of the word Awe I definitely think of being in a state of euphoria almost. Like that I am frozen in time. Such a powerful word and feeling.

    Reply
  13. Julie Syl Kalungi permalink
    04/10/2016 4:34 am

    Wow Yen Pu’i Took drastic measures. Why rid yourself of all that stands out about you and distinguishes yo from others. Your uniqueness? Well he got awe in pace so I guess he got what he wanted. With that said. I love the share about nature and its way of surviving and the lessons we can learn from that. We must shed all that is potentially dead weight from our lives so that new things and growth can take place just as that branch was shed. …And sometimes when we shed some baggage the crash is so loud it shuts up those around us…!

    Reply
  14. Joseph permalink
    04/10/2016 8:32 am

    There are a lot of great moments and information in your blog! I love positive energy and information. Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  15. Bill S permalink
    04/10/2016 7:55 am

    These are great stories!! There is so much in life that can leave us in awe of everything.

    Reply
  16. 조이 Czjai (@RebelSweetHrt) permalink
    04/10/2016 8:02 am

    Love the breathtaking photos that you posted here. Nature never fails to keep us in awe. 🙂

    Reply
  17. fashionphases permalink
    04/10/2016 10:44 am

    This is a great post Elizabeth! I enjoy experiencing those “awe” moments in life! When you mentioned your experience with the trees it brought me back a few years when I moved from NY to the rural mountain area in PA. I kept complaining how it was too quiet, there were too many trees and my neighbors were too far apart. One day I had one of the “awe” moments as I sat alone in my backyard. I couldn’t believe how connected I felt spirtually with my surroundings. Watching the animals interacted and the way the leaves moved like they were happily dancing with each other. The peaceful sounds the animals made, the relaxing sounds of the trees and wind whispering in my ear are one of the best moments I’ve ever experienced.

    Reply
    • Eliz@MirthandMotivation permalink*
      24/09/2026 5:09 pm

      That is beautiful… hold unto it

      Reply
  18. linda Smith permalink
    04/10/2016 2:23 pm

    This is beautiful and so powerful. Awe is so important, and something we can all experience more of!

    Reply
  19. Mai C. permalink
    04/10/2016 11:27 am

    For me, being in awe means admiring something for its beauty or for being amazing. It’s a great way to describe what you’re feeling when you go to a beautiful place for the first time or when you encounter a person who does something that amazes you. I don’t think perfection would have to be included in the criteria, to be be simply in awe means you appreciate the person, place, or thing for what it is and what it can do.

    Reply
  20. Jena Proctor permalink
    04/10/2016 2:34 pm

    The images are beautiful.

    Reply
  21. Michele permalink
    04/10/2016 12:40 pm

    I stand in awe at nature-whether it be a bright sun shiny day or thunder and lightening is happening. The trees slowly changing from green to fall colors or the sight of birds flitting to and fro.

    Reply
  22. Liz Mays permalink
    04/10/2016 12:41 pm

    I totally love the holy man story. That is really something to think on.

    Reply
  23. Neely (@Neelykins) permalink
    04/10/2016 1:20 pm

    That is something I really dont do enough. I am sure if I took a few minutes of day to take in everything I would stress less.

    Reply
  24. Anita Anderson permalink
    04/10/2016 4:58 pm

    This is the motivation that I needed to get my week started off on the right foot.

    Reply
  25. Ana De Jesus permalink
    04/10/2016 2:08 pm

    There has been many moments in life that has left me in awe, namely getting to where I am now despite what people said.

    Reply
  26. Jolina permalink
    04/10/2016 5:48 pm

    This reminds me so much of my niece and my nephew! I was in the car with them the other day and all throughout the ride they were saying WOWWW. We should really be like that!

    Reply
  27. nlampert permalink
    04/10/2016 4:04 pm

    Wow this is such a great reminder! I don’t think I take enough time to stop and recognize those awe-filled moments. There are probably so many amazing things going on in the world around me that I don’t stop to take in.

    Reply
  28. adriana permalink
    04/10/2016 7:11 pm

    When I hear the word “awe” I think of awe inspiring moments. I think it’s so important to reflect on the positives in life! Love this post!

    Reply
  29. Crystal Bowley Reagan permalink
    04/10/2016 5:19 pm

    I find the story of the monkeys so interesting. We are so often taught to find the thing that helps us stand out. It’s interesting to hear another approach.

    Reply
  30. crystal permalink
    04/10/2016 8:58 pm

    I liked reading all your stories but especially about how each day is what we make of it

    Reply
  31. Nicole Herose Cochingco - Escat permalink
    04/10/2016 6:20 pm

    I like that story, The holy man. So true and that makes me awe! One thing that makes me awe is the sincerity of humans, bringing back humanity.

    Reply
  32. MarciaF permalink
    04/10/2016 7:23 pm

    I love to read your stories each week.

    Reply
  33. Claudette Esterine permalink
    04/10/2016 7:26 pm

    Awe to me is my granddaughter who was born prematurely and today is thriving like crazy!

    Reply
  34. chei permalink
    04/10/2016 7:43 pm

    Your blog is really amazing. Thanks for sharing again this., 🙂

    Reply
  35. ♥Nancy♥ (@StyleDecor) permalink
    04/10/2016 7:52 pm

    You write so beautifully. I always enjoy visiting your site and reading your motivating and thought-provoking posts.
    It’s ironic that you wrote about the power of trees. My BIL was almost killed by a tree that snapped one windy October day.

    Reply
  36. CJ | Thirty30Courtney.com permalink
    04/10/2016 8:06 pm

    Practicing gratitude and just taking the time to pause and look at God’s glory is a wonderful thing to do. It makes you appreciate so much more in the world.

    Reply
  37. Tami permalink
    04/10/2016 8:27 pm

    Wayne Dyer really speaks to me about gratitude. I have a few of his quotes up in my bedroom.

    Reply
  38. Erlene permalink
    04/10/2016 10:11 pm

    When I think of AWE, I think of the strength of my grandmother. She has been battling cancer for a year and has remained so strong and positive through it all.

    Reply
  39. Nicole Haas Etolen permalink
    05/10/2016 1:21 am

    Awe! My son always makes me awe, his being sweet and caring- that’s all that matters to me. Love your post, these stories are really worth reading.

    Reply
  40. Kimberly C. permalink
    05/10/2016 1:36 am

    I have an awe moment everyday when I look into my son’s big brown eye. I’m in awe that he’s turning into the little person he is and is absolutely wonderful. blessed!

    Reply
  41. Tara Christine Enright permalink
    04/10/2016 10:37 pm

    Wow! One of my favorite season’s is Halloween (: Love taking my son out. It’s the best.

    Reply
  42. Lucid Gypsy permalink
    04/10/2016 10:41 pm

    We all need to slow down and take in the awesomeness of our world!

    Reply
  43. Amanda Love permalink
    05/10/2016 2:13 am

    To be in awe is to be in deep appreciation for something that you’ve seen or experienced! This is a wonderful explanation to the word and it’s even made better with the pictures and the stories. It’s also in a way, a show of gratitude and appreciation!

    Reply
  44. Rose Pingol permalink
    05/10/2016 3:01 am

    What makes me awe? My family, every time my children are visiting me or taking me out on a dinner, I feel awe!

    Reply
  45. Rebecca Swenor permalink
    05/10/2016 3:59 am

    This is an interesting way to look at the word “Awe”. It seems we all are always just going at a fast pace and not really looking at the miracles happening before us. Thanks for sharing this interesting post.

    Reply
  46. Ashley permalink
    05/10/2016 5:01 am

    I’m a ‘stop and smell the roses’ kind of girl. I take my kids for hikes and out to parks all the time and there’s so much beauty around us. I make sure to let them take notice, hopefully passing this down to them when they are older. Lots of ‘awe’ moments always around us!!!

    Reply
  47. Teresa Gilbert permalink
    05/10/2016 6:09 am

    I love your Monday post. This is the hardest day of the week for me!

    Reply
  48. franckxethee permalink
    05/10/2016 6:37 am

    When we get awed by moments or event places it shows that we are appreciative. I always get awed especially when I am in front of nature’s beauty.

    Reply
  49. Raymond Vasquez permalink
    05/10/2016 6:40 am

    Interesting story of the way of Chuang Tzu. I’ve always believed in showcasing cleverness. But yeah, maybe this is one way of reminding us, that we can excel and be clever at things but we don’t have to show off all the time. Great reminder!

    Reply
  50. Jason Panuelos permalink
    05/10/2016 7:05 am

    Being in awe is one of my favorite emotions. I believe it means that there’s always something more to life 🙂

    Reply
  51. planningthemagic permalink
    05/10/2016 7:28 am

    I never really considered the meaning of “awe” or the many meanings of it. Awe-inspiring moments are provided daily.

    Reply
  52. Laura permalink
    05/10/2016 7:29 am

    My last moment of awe was seeing the aqueduct in Segovia Spain. It is so big and ancient!

    Reply
  53. Bhushavali permalink
    05/10/2016 7:55 am

    The story of the prince is interesting. We do have a tendency to assume that people who speak very less as wise and are filled with awe. However when someone can train themselves to speak less, that would give an impression that they’re wise!!

    Reply
  54. thecherylf permalink
    05/10/2016 9:24 am

    What first came on to my mind when I think of the word AWE is the awesome daily life God is giving me and my son. There is no such thing as perfect life. But I believe there is always an awesome choice for life.

    Reply
  55. connielimon2014 permalink
    05/10/2016 7:03 am

    I just started following your blog, I would like to invite you to follow me at carmilitashandmadejewelry.wordpress.com I make bead jewelry and have an etsy shop. You never know when you might like to buy some bead jewelry as a gift.

    Reply
  56. lastchance3 permalink
    05/10/2016 11:19 am

    When I think of the word AWE, I think of something that is so incredible that there are no words to justify it….OR I think of a cute puppy. Lol. It depends on the inflection.

    Reply
  57. Tiffany VanSickle permalink
    05/10/2016 11:42 am

    I love the beauty of the outdoors. The beach is my happy place! I could sit and watch/listen to the waves for days! I also love being at my in-law’s farm. It’s so peaceful!

    Reply
  58. erinconefrey permalink
    05/10/2016 1:10 pm

    We should all slow down and take more moments of awe. So much beauty is worth appreciating! -Erin

    Reply
  59. Fatima permalink
    05/10/2016 1:49 pm

    There are so many ways to get inspired. Isn’t it amazing how anything can bring you into a calm state? I’m working on meditating on a daily basis. It’ll help give me a little personal time.

    Reply
  60. Bill permalink
    05/10/2016 1:53 pm

    It’s funny how different things in our lives lead us to appreciate different things. I know I am often in awe of a lot of things I see in life.

    Reply
  61. Thelittlelai: Beyond limits permalink
    05/10/2016 2:30 pm

    God has been so good to us and that makes us to admire and stands in awe because of all His creation. Thank you so much for this moving and inspiring article.

    Reply
  62. dawnro1101 permalink
    05/10/2016 2:56 pm

    Life does not have to be in sync to appreaciate it’s beauty. Although, sometimes it’s easy to forget there is so much beauty around us when we don’t take a few seconds to appreciate it.

    Reply
  63. Shub permalink
    05/10/2016 6:06 pm

    I am always in awe of nature and God. Their works are simply superb and we get no inkling of what’s going to happen. Though it is ultimately for our good.

    Reply
  64. Maintaining Me permalink
    05/10/2016 7:22 pm

    I love your pictures! Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  65. Leigh Anne permalink
    05/10/2016 7:25 pm

    As always, I enjoy reading your deep thoughts. I believe that there is so much to be grateful for even in the midst of pain. It seems like I am much more aware and appreciative of those things during the valleys in my life.

    Reply
  66. I Love Paars by: Lee permalink
    05/10/2016 8:04 pm

    I am in awe when I see a magnificent and majestic view of nature/beach/mountain.
    I became speechless upon seeing such beauty of nature. Even a simple flower..

    Reply
  67. Neely (@Neelykins) permalink
    05/10/2016 5:05 pm

    When I think of the word AWE I think of being in complete asstonishment of a situation. I love the way you write about it.

    Reply
  68. misavings permalink
    05/10/2016 6:55 pm

    I love your Motivation Mondays. The photos all show true beauty and Awe

    Reply
  69. zim permalink
    05/10/2016 10:11 pm

    I love your story of the Holy Man. I always tell my Sunday School class that everyone they meet is worthy of respect and could be an Angel. By so doing, I am teaching to stop chasing “miracles”, but realize that life in all its forms is a miracle.

    Reply
  70. Jam and Tea Blog permalink
    05/10/2016 7:57 pm

    I love your photo collages and write up every week!

    Reply
  71. carrie@thelavenderhytta permalink
    06/10/2016 1:44 am

    Awe inspiring is such a great thing to reflect on! One of the most awe inspiring things I have seen are the Northern Lights here in Norway.

    Reply
  72. susanmarymalone permalink
    06/10/2016 6:35 am

    Oh, I just love this! I love the quote to open, and love the story of your awe moment while walking through the massive trees. Yes, the wonder of this world is everywhere, if only we appreciate it . . .
    Lovely post.

    Reply
  73. kristenione permalink
    06/10/2016 7:24 am

    Love this! I’m teaching my son about AWE right now in fact because it is in a song from a CD he is currently obsessed with! What a great series you have going here. I’m going to check out some of the others!

    Reply
  74. Lisa Rios permalink
    06/10/2016 8:14 am

    My goodness, these are some stunning pictures captured in the best possible way. I agree that despite all the issues we see around the world there is a lot to feel awed, inspired & stay positive through out our life.

    Reply
  75. Yonca permalink
    06/10/2016 11:02 am

    Another inspiring post with amazing, motivating pictures! Thank you!

    Reply
  76. Shelley Zurek (@stillblondeaaty) permalink
    06/10/2016 2:29 pm

    The story of the little girl made me laugh. What gives me awe? Every little thing that God created. All so awe inspiring.

    Reply
  77. nbosken permalink
    06/10/2016 3:32 pm

    I am always in awe of trees myself. They have so many powers, both good and bad (if they fall down).

    Nina
    aworldofdresses.com

    Reply
  78. Divya @ Eat. Teach. Blog. permalink
    06/10/2016 5:38 pm

    Really needed that today. In a school system that’s not doing so hot, I need to find the silver lining.

    Reply
  79. Jamie Yonash (@SweeterByDesign) permalink
    07/10/2016 6:42 am

    When I hear the word, AWE, I think of God and His amazing creation…earth! I see sunsets, landscapes, oceans….and can never truly understand how awesome He is!

    Reply
    • Eliz@MirthandMotivation permalink*
      24/09/2026 5:06 pm

      Amen to that!

      Reply
  80. Garf permalink
    07/10/2016 2:35 pm

    I always need motivations, especially during Mondays. For some reason, it is just hard to get motivated on the start of the week.

    Reply
  81. DecoPix (@TiinaTibs) permalink
    07/10/2016 12:08 pm

    To be honest I never heard of that word ‘awe’ before… Now I know more, thanks! Beautiful pics!

    Reply
  82. Tami permalink
    07/10/2016 1:34 pm

    The word “awe” always me of the greatness of my Savior Jesus Christ. Dyer’s quote is pretty awe-some.

    Reply
  83. Cynthia Nicoletti permalink
    07/10/2016 4:20 pm

    I agree about the word Awe. It can mean happiness, sadness so many different ways you can interpret it.

    Reply
  84. Kathy permalink
    07/10/2016 8:31 pm

    I love the word Awe. It can mean so many things. I have to say that I just love these photos as well. Some of them make me want to say Awe!

    Reply
  85. jennifer L. permalink
    07/10/2016 9:54 pm

    Wow what an amazing resource for those wanting and needing motivation. Thank you I can’t wait to dig into the amazing articles.

    Reply
  86. Tiffany Yong permalink
    08/10/2016 1:11 am

    Nice story about Bull’s eye! How true!
    When you talk about Awe, it reminds me of the Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya. When I enter the sanctuary, I was amazed and in awe of the infrastructure and carvings made from wood

    Reply
  87. mominaarif111 permalink
    08/10/2016 1:46 am

    I think this is something I hav had to learn with great difficulty and that is to appreciate the randomness of life. I am a perfectionist, I have always wanted the ‘perfect sync’ and I have to teach myself that can never be so.

    Reply
  88. rochkirstin permalink
    08/10/2016 7:19 am

    Awe for me is when I feel the presence of our ever-loving God. I think life is awesome in itself. Seeing how people reach out to others and do good deeds also give awe.

    Reply
  89. Becca permalink
    08/10/2016 7:41 am

    Well I have got to admit I feel inspired now! Lots of stories to draw upon. Awesome!

    Becca | theapresgal.com

    Reply
  90. Michelle Gwynn Jones permalink
    08/10/2016 10:50 am

    Great shots. Lately I have stopped to wonder how such sucky things happen. Maybe I should be less negative.

    Reply
  91. Rika (@thedealmatch) permalink
    08/10/2016 1:19 pm

    I am looking for ways to get creative and inspired! 2016 is a pretty great year but could be better

    Reply
  92. Ana Sanchez permalink
    08/10/2016 8:22 pm

    I love nature. My daughters and I love to walk through the park and just appreciate what is all around us.

    Reply
  93. Veethee Dixit permalink
    09/10/2016 7:38 am

    Sounds like a wonderful idea! Motivation mondays!!

    Reply
  94. laurahartleyy permalink
    09/10/2016 12:20 pm

    Really interesting stories about awe. I don’t much like the story about the monkey getting shot for displaying his talents!

    Reply
  95. Fashion Travels (@tauyanm) permalink
    09/10/2016 10:04 pm

    feeling awe or feel appreciated is what i feel whenever i am disappointed of something. that’s where i realise that I am lucky in so many ways

    Reply
  96. Saidah permalink
    10/10/2016 2:52 pm

    Things in nature tend to leave me in AWE! I just visited the mountains of Honduras and the scenery was so beautiful.

    Reply
  97. DogVills permalink
    10/10/2016 6:56 pm

    Awe, I really love those story. When word “Awe” comes in my mind, I think I felt like sweet or when I saw a beautiful nature makes me Awe.

    Reply
  98. Sunshine Kelly permalink
    10/10/2016 5:41 pm

    Sometimes we are too busy chasing the world till we forgot to take a break and be inspired by our surrounding nature. I wish to take a 5 minutes break everyday to observed and be awed by the mother nature.

    Reply
  99. Karlaroundtheworld | Karla permalink
    11/10/2016 7:18 am

    I hope I do! I find the story of The Holy Man very in-depth when it comes to connecting it with self-confidence and mixing with being righteous.

    Reply
  100. TheGracefulMist permalink
    18/10/2016 11:58 pm

    The story “In Awe” has a really great wisdom behind it and I enjoyed reading it. We shouldn`t be boastful of whatever skills we have, we never know when enemies can use them against us.

    Reply
  101. Dreammerin permalink
    19/10/2016 6:11 am

    “Two things awe me most, the starry sky above me and the moral law within me. ” – Immanuel Kant
    Great article! The best post as … I’ve been reading today!

    Reply
  102. Mihaela Echols permalink
    08/11/2016 8:47 pm

    wow stunning pictures they are so pretty and do make me say aaah just perfect.

    Reply
  103. holistic complications permalink
    12/11/2016 7:24 pm

    Thank you for that interesting read…

    I like what you say about how we start out our year with ideas, plans and wishes of all the things we hope to achieve .. and if we stay focused with gratitude in our hearts we can find the inner strength to get things done.

    Your post has been my gentle reminder to begin my day with gratitude and stay focused on the each task with an openness to the opportunities and the learning along the way.

    Thank you!
    May you have an awesome week.

    Reply
    • Eliz@MirthandMotivation permalink*
      24/09/2026 4:41 pm

      Much appreciated feedback. Thank you!

      Reply
  104. Wanderlust Vegans permalink
    05/02/2017 1:20 pm

    I love your motivation monday posts. It is a great way to start the week on a positive note.

    Reply
  105. agentizerozerosetter permalink
    24/02/2017 12:29 am

    So true!Take 5 minutes to stop and see,focus on the beauty that is around us helps!
    Just 5 minutes,We can,also in ours busy lifes

    Reply
  106. duffelbagspouse permalink
    03/03/2017 1:45 am

    Awe is a wonderful word that should be reserved for only the most AWEsome things.

    Reply
  107. hillcitybride permalink
    10/03/2018 6:25 am

    Sometimes feelings of awe just hit me. Especially when I’m outside in nature, but I really like the idea of doing it INTENTIONALLY. Taking a few minutes to be purposeful in it is a great idea! 🙂

    Reply

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