Small Human, Big World
The world is big.
It's an overstatement, but we don't think about the truth of it that much. Whether it's all the people in it, all the different countries and cultures, all the experiences and opportunities to be had, all the different sights to see, the world is huge. The universe itself is massive, and we are but a little dot on the face of our blue and green planet. Small human, big world.
During my recent trips to Iceland and Switzerland, I was reminded of all this. These destinations were a welcomed break from the blur and chaos of all European cities I've visited so far. While cities are fun to visit to see how urban life developed differently in places, and to see what different cultures are like, being in nature offers a completely different experience.
The silence is one of the first things that strikes you. Of course the natural beauty of the outdoors is stunning, but standing in such places gives you the time and space to think. To contemplate your own life and life in general. To become one with nature and find peace in the serenity you have stumbled upon.
Amongst the geysers, volcanoes, glaciers, mountains, valleys, and waterfalls, I found a few moments of quiet to do just that. Literally being so small while facing the world puts things into perspective. Only the important things seem to matter now, the insignificant floating off into the distant universe. The petty grudges, the complaints, the self-pity and victimizing, the taking for granted of most things in our life -- it all becomes insignificant. It shouldn't take flying out into the middle of nowhere, hours on a bus, and a cable car ride or two to realize, but sometimes it does.
Perspective isn't something you can box up and carry around with you, but I hope I will remember those moments of standing there, alone with the world, looking out into the distance and think on these times when I'm in doubt or stuck in unhealthy thinking. Life is short, so why focus on things not worthy your time and energy? Live your life, and to the fullest: Carpe Diem is the way. Take a walk, breathe in the fresh air, and remember that you are blessed. Don't waste this wonderful life you've been given; make your own way and be happy with every step you take. Make it count.