Ever since I got my dog, Hudson, I’ve left my phone at home when we go out for walks. This was initially because we were potty training and, as such, I needed to keep my attention on him every moment so I could praise him enthusiastically when he did his business! But as time has passed, I’ve grown to love this unplugged time outside each day, just me and my dog, being in the world.
Fast forward to a few nights ago, we were out on our last walk of the night – and a very cold night at that. At one point I saw something out of the corner of my eye and looked up at the sky to see none else than the most incredible shooting star I’ve ever seen. Well, to be truthful, it was also the only shooting star I’ve ever seen. That being said, from all the photos I’ve seen, I always pictured shooting stars to have a long thin tail – a line of light traveling behind them. This shooting star had an incredibly wide and luminous tail. I’m certain I’ll never forget it as long as I live.
So what’s the lesson? It occurred to me that if I were like so many others I see outside walking their dogs, glued to their phones while their dogs enjoy the walk, I would certainly have missed this unforgettable natural event.
This begs the question: if we’re so glued to our phones while out in the world (or, phones aside, simply distracted and not being present) what other magic might we be missing?
I say let’s not take that chance. Let’s be present in the world so when that magic happens – be it an event that fills us with joy, raises our hair on end, or simply leaves us in awe – we don’t miss it.
