“Life is not complex. We are complex. Life is simple, and the simple thing is the right thing.”
— Oscar Wilde
Sometimes we take the simple things for granted. It seems like so many people spend their days racing around, trying to get from one place to another and steamroll whatever gets in their way.
We consume, presume and resume in a never ending cycle. Life feels like a treadmill, and when we take one misstep it spits us off, crumpled into the dirt.
We search for the next best new thing, the next victim of our stress, the next issue to argue over.
Today’s photo is simple. Soft. Quiet. Close up. To some it may look simply like snow on sticks.
But take a closer glance.
To me, it reminds me to stop, slow down, take a step in, and look.
Listen.
See what the world is offering.
It’s simple.
Jennifer Wolfe
Jennifer Wolfe, a writer-teacher-mom, is dedicated to finding the extraordinary in the ordinary moments of life by thinking deeply, loving fiercely, and teaching audaciously. Jennifer is a Google Certified Educator, Hyperdoc fanatic, and a voracious reader. Read her stories on her blog, mamawolfe, and grab free copies of her teaching and parenting resources.
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Comments: 12
rhonda
January 31, 2012pretty pic!
Jennifer Wolfe
February 5, 2012Thanks, Rhonda! We are sure glad to finally have some snow out here!
Bella
January 29, 2012I think we all stand to benefit from taking a break; stopping to take in the scenery or even a deep breath. Most days I feel like a hamster on a wheel but this year, I’ve promised myself that I will jump off that wheel. Even if I bonk my head, I’m taking the leap. I shall strive to ponder peaceful scenes that invoke well being and relaxation! 🙂
Jennifer Wolfe
January 30, 2012Bella, thanks for the comment! I feel the same way about taking the leap-usually good things happen when I do!
My Inner Chick
January 29, 2012Mama,
I adore the photo. Fluffy White Snow is such great symbolism for purity & simplicity. Xx
Jennifer Wolfe
January 30, 2012Thank you, Kim. I was really entranced by how clean and delicate the snow was, and how it could simply balance on the branch without weighing it down. I would love to feel that way!
Jennifer Wolfe
January 29, 2012Brenda, you’re welcome. I am really trying hard to take it as it comes this year, too, in hopes of cleansing away some old bad habits and ways of thinking. I found myself sitting on a deck today in the Sierras, bright sunny sky overhead, and telling myself to just breathe and enjoy. Then I fell asleep right there. Argh.
brenda
January 28, 2012Jen – we are guilty of running around without stopping to breathe and take in the moment. I am always guilty of doing this, but at the start of the year when I was pondering resolutions (i never make or keep) I thought it was the year to take it as it comes. I can’t invite time or make the day last longer, but I can try (even thought it’s damn hard) to enjoy the moments. The image with your post is PERFECT..for this frame of mind. Thanks as always for giving me something to think about and take away.. Hugs,
Jennifer Wolfe
January 27, 2012Hi Alicia, Yes, we got some snow finally! It came in last weekend, so this weekend we should have a great time!
Dee
January 27, 2012Dear Jennifer,
I so needed to read your accolade to simplicity. All morning I’ve been feeling a little “punk.” The Meniere’s is making itself felt. But I’ve forged ahead. “Must get this done.” “Must get that done.” Now I’m going to stop, take a nap, and then wile away the rest of the day with reading.
Thank you.
Peace.
Jennifer Wolfe
January 27, 2012Dee, I’m so sorry that you’re not having a good day. I’m glad I was able to help you slow down and take it easy – take good care.
aliciamarie911
January 27, 2012You got snow! I LOVE snow. It’s always so peaceful and serene. It’s nice to sit back and slow down every once in a while. Thanks for the reminder.