BLUE SPRUCE

One of the powerful questions that a retirement coach often asks clients is, “Where do you find awe, wonder, and delight?” It is a simple question, yet it has remarkable depth. Recently, I had an experience that brought the meaning of this question vividly into my consciousness.

For many people, the number one answer is nature. There is something deeply restorative and inspiring about the natural world that can stop us in our tracks and remind us of beauty, peace, and gratitude. I experienced this unexpectedly one afternoon while walking around a strip mall after meeting an old colleague for lunch. As I strolled through the area, I came upon something I had never really noticed before, a blue spruce tree.

The beauty of this living organism quite literally took my breath away. I had never seen such a striking tree up close. Its color was extraordinary, somewhere between the soft shade of a robin’s egg and the elegant blue of a Tiffany box. Beyond its color, the tree possessed a stately structure and graceful symmetry that made it appear almost majestic. For a brief moment, I felt as though I had glimpsed a small vision of heaven. It was one of those rare experiences where time slows down and you become fully present in the moment.

There is also a weeping willow tree in my neighborhood that has a similar effect on me every time I drive past it. Its long flowing branches and regal beauty always bring me a sense of calm and happiness. Even after seeing it countless times, I still pause inwardly to appreciate it. Nature has a wonderful ability to continually renew our sense of awe if we are willing to notice it.

I have a friend who regularly walks through his rural property and hugs the trees there. He says that doing so helps him feel spiritually connected to nature and grounded in the world around him. While some may find this unusual, I understand exactly what he means. Trees possess a quiet strength and permanence that can be comforting in a busy and uncertain world.

When I shared my experience of seeing the blue spruce tree with a colleague, she mentioned that she often finds awe and wonder simply by looking at the clouds. She said the ever changing patterns amaze her and remind her that no two moments in life are exactly the same. Others find similar joy in watching sunrises or sunsets that paint the sky with colors resembling watercolor masterpieces. Each day offers a unique display, never to be repeated in exactly the same way again.

Another powerful question related to awe and delight is, “What is your favorite time of year?” My answer is always the same, the season when my azaleas bloom. Typically, I enjoy about two glorious weeks in April when the front of my house becomes engulfed in vibrant hot pink blossoms. Every year, their appearance marks the true beginning of spring for me. The flowers seem to radiate joy and life after the grayness of winter, and I always find myself wishing they could bloom all year long.

For many people, awe, wonder, and delight are found not only in nature, but also in children and grandchildren. Spending time with children can be such a gift. Their laughter, curiosity, honesty, and energy can brighten even the most difficult day. Others would say that pets bring them similar joy and companionship.

For some, delight comes through food and shared experiences around a table. Experiencing different tastes, aromas, and traditions can be deeply satisfying and even transformative. I remember several individuals mentioning chocolate and wine as simple pleasures that bring them genuine happiness and comfort.

There are countless avenues through which we may experience awe, wonder, and delight. The important thing is to recognize what brings those moments into our own lives. Perhaps it is music, art, gardening, travel, prayer, or simply sitting quietly with someone you love.

What brings awe, wonder, and delight into your life? And how might you intentionally create more of those experiences for yourself and for those you care about in your retirement?