In Pursuit of the Simple Pleasures of Summertime

Slow down! Embrace the simple pleasures in life that nurture our spirit! It’s summertime and with those clear, sun-filled skies brings opportunity to slow down and savor the richness of life. In those quiet moments and small pockets of time where the simplest of pleasures draw my attention – a flower in bloom, its silky petals cradling a dew drop, the feel of the wind as an evening rain shower approaches, the chattering chorus of birdsong heralding a new day, the smell of a campfire and marshmallows crisping in the flames – I am immersed in a sea of gratefulness for living.

Maybe it’s the oppressive heat that slows me down. Maybe it’s a longing for the days to remain longer instead of steadily growing shorter. Maybe it’s a stubborn clinging to the memory of childhood days and breaks from school where reading in trees, walking dirt roads, and having not a particular care in the world guided my days. Whatever the catalyst, I find these days of the summer months calling me to savor the simple pleasures even more than I typically do. I find in so doing that I have increased inspiration for creative pursuits, more energy for work tasks, and a more lighthearted disposition overall.

Poet and playwright Oscar Wilde said, “Simple pleasures are the last healthy refuge in a complex world.” What simple pleasures do you enjoy? As we enter into July let’s make a mindful study of the small stuff…those shiny, glitter-like moments that capture our attention and force us to pause amidst the busyness of life.