Observing

Take Time to See 

One of the most entertaining past-times for me is people watching. Or just observing the humanity around me.  I’ll plant myself on a park bench downtown and study the individuals that pass by.  From clothing styles, to hair-do’s.. those well kept to those that prioritize other things in life besides their personal appearance.. you can tell a lot about someone from the way they look. Though we are told not to judge a book by it’s cover, there’s not a lot of judging going on when I observe people.  I’m looking at their stride, if they show confidence, worry, happiness.. and I wonder what thoughts go through their heads as they walk with purpose, or slowly glide along their way.  Some seem to not have a care in the world.

I find it refreshing to spend time during my week to take a break from my busy life and check out the world around me.  Of course it’s not great to be caught staring, but I’ve gotten pretty good at looking like I’m just daydreaming, and not glaring at folks.  It’s almost become my own form of meditation in many ways.  I find myself distracted from my own problems, and more interested in acting as a sort of Sherlock Holmes.. breaking down clues of sorts.  If I’m lucky I’ll overhear some chatter and get more clues as to their occupation or lifestyle.  If I’m getting ready to start on a new project, sometimes taking a few minutes to relax my mind first will clear my head before launching into deeper thoughts.

Take time to look at the world around you, you’ll learn a lot!