Embracing Wonder: Honoring the Divine in Art and Nature to Inspire Compassion and Purpose
Yesterday I finished the incredible book The Story She Left Behind by Patti Callahan Henry. I am now working through my notes and highlights I made for further reflection. Patti is one of my favorite authors. I love her historical novels inspired by actual people and events.
This reflection deals with Clara recalling a conversation with her mother when she was a young girl. She and her mother were pressing flowers between tissue paper to preserve them. This is what her mother said:
“‘This,’ Mother said. ‘Art comes from the same place as this flower.’ She’d pressed the flower into my hand. ‘It is all mystery and beauty and all of this, including us, including that flower, comes from the same place.’ ‘All mystery and beauty.’”
With the description of “all mystery and beauty,” Patty was emphasizing that both art and natural beauty originate from a profound, mysterious source within us and the universe. The idea suggested that creativity and nature are interconnected expressions of something deeper—mystery, wonder, and beauty—that transcends explanation. I believe Patti, through her art of writing, was encouraging us to see the world and our creative efforts as rooted in the same divine or mysterious essence, reminding us to appreciate the wonder inherent in both art and nature.
Recognizing the divine or mysterious essence in art and nature can inspire us to act with kindness, responsibility, and purpose—striving to protect and preserve the beauty that elevates our spirits. By regularly appreciating the beauty around us whether it’s a sunset, a painting, or a song we nurture gratitude and a sense of awe. This can lead to a more positive outlook and deeper connection to the world.
Engaging with art and nature encourages us to explore our own creativity. This not only enhances problem-solving skills but also allows us to express ourselves authentically, fostering self-awareness and emotional health. By embracing the wonder inherent in both art and nature, we connect more deeply with ourselves and the world, fostering qualities like compassion, curiosity, and resilience that make us better humans.
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