As a kid, I would think, “what’s the point of visiting the Eiffel Tower when there are so many nice photos of it on Google Images?” I’d much prefer to have a nice sit-down dinner, enjoy some ice cream, go to the pool, and call it a day.
But I realized that there’s something absolutely wonderful about standing there—in flesh and in bone—and seeing it for myself. Rather focusing my attention on capturing the Matterhorn from the best angle, I prefer to just stand there and take it all in. There’s something magical about taking in the moment, noticing little details, registering how it feels when the wind blows against my face, that even the most talented photographer or poet couldn’t do justice to. I get a holistic picture of little imperfections about a city, like the cranes blocking the view of the mountains, the garbage on the streets, the number of bikes on the road. I form my own opinion by collecting as much “data” as I can through my senses, rather than focusing at what the photographer intended to highlight.
This week, I’m traveling with my friends. Whenever my mood dips, I turn my attention to capturing a mental, 5D picture of everything I observe in the moment. It’s made me realize that there is so much beauty in this world. I notice the colorful buildings, the ripples in the river, the goofy dialogue between my friends, and the slippery cobblestone streets, and I could live in this moment forever. On this trip, I haven’t taken as many photographs as I usually do because I cherish every second I have to take it all in. When I am completely mindful, my heart feels full, and I am reminded that there is too much beauty in the world to let go.
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