A young woman passes on the sidewalk bouncing in time with her dogs gait.  Both are surveying their surroundings, likely with different points of focus.  Minutes earlier she walked by across the street, head buried in the cellphone while the dog enjoyed the nature around her.  Reawakened, she seems alert, in the present now, and sharing the experience. We are like this, as we allow the world we create in our minds to pull our gaze away from the truth and beauty of the world around us.  We miss the surprises and opportunities God creates for us, stepping over them on our way to our man-made hopes.

What, if you put it down, would create space for more joy in your life? 

What in nature surrounds you right now that is calling for your attention?