Satisfying Creative Hunger: Holding On to a Sense of Wonder Posted Jul-1-2006
Dancing with the Moments in Our Life
One of my favorite songs to listen to right now is Lee Ann Womack's "I Hope You Dance." The song begins:

I hope you never lose your sense of wonder
You get your fill to eat, but always keep that hunger...

When I reflect on what having a sense of wonder means, I think of the astonishment and surprise children experience when they first see larger-than-life happenings before their eyes: rainbows, hot-air balloons, costumed characters, ice cream cones, wild animals in the park. Their sense of wonder is so authentic and contagious that it makes me pause for a few moments to try to see life through their eyes.

Fortunately for us, our sense of wonder doesn't need to disappear as we "grow up" into adults. It's an approach and attitude towards life we can continually renew and foster if we choose to, no matter what age we are at. For me, maintaining a sense of wonder has been a complimentary component and gift to my creative life. It naturally keeps my mind and heart open to take note of the extra in the ordinary.

Little miracles and amazing events are happening all around us every day — not only in colorful rainbows and butterflies flitting through the flowers, but also in our connections with kindred spirits and with those who may someday become our friends. Having a sense of wonder helps me to continually seek out inspiring opportunities, get my fill, and know that my future hunger will be satisfied.

Life is unfolding for you and for me right here in this moment, and in each subsequent moment that follows. Wouldn't today be the perfect time to spend a few of those moments 'dancing' with your sense of wonder? •

© 2006 Chris Dunmire www.chrisdunmire.com. All rights reserved.