You ever have one of those weeks—or months—where life feels like it’s spinning out of control? Juggling work, family, and an endless to-do list can make it all too easy to overlook the little moments that spark joy. Lately, I’ve been caught in a whirlwind, and honestly, it feels like one disaster after another. It’s kind of like when you think you’re nearing the finish line of a marathon (not that I’ve ever run one, but just roll with me), only to discover you still have three more miles to go. Really, it’s more like a whole “season” of never-ending madness.
Summer 2024 felt downright defeating—not so much for me, but for the people I care about. I’m the type who thrives on helping others, and when someone I love is struggling, it hits me hard. It’s both a blessing and a curse. This summer was particularly tough; as events unfolded, I felt increasingly helpless. One situation led to another, and soon it felt like a mountain of challenges was piling up around those I love, with little I could do to ease their burden. I’ve never wished a summer away before, but this year? I was eagerly searching for fall like a kid on an Easter egg hunt.
After some time, it became increasingly clear that I needed to seek out some semblance of "light" in a season that felt overwhelmingly dark. I found myself on a quest for small moments of happiness, relief, and calm amidst the chaos. Spoiler alert: my search initially yielded little success. Yet, as I continued to navigate through the tumult, I came to an important realization: even amid the heaviness, there were glimpses of light shining through, albeit faintly.
Now, let me clarify—I wasn’t exactly celebrating the difficult events that were unfolding around me. Rather, I started to recognize that, despite the sorrow of watching my loved ones grapple with their struggles, some unexpected positives began to emerge from the shadows. These silver linings, though subtle, offered a sense of hope and reminded me that even in the darkest times, there are moments of beauty and connection that can lift our spirits. It was a journey of learning to find gratitude in the little things, and those moments gradually began to illuminate the path forward.
That path forward, while often feeling like a steep 90-degree incline, also brought about a surprising sense of gratitude. I soon realized I got to spend a lot of time with "my people" this summer. Sure, it wasn’t filled with wild parties, sun-soaked beach days, or big celebrations, but we had some incredibly meaningful moments together. Even if it meant just hanging out on the couch in silence, being around one another provided a level of comfort that I didn’t fully appreciate before. Those quieter times allowed us to connect in ways that everyday life often doesn’t. We shared laughs over inside jokes, tackled challenges together, and had conversations that ran deep, even if they weren’t always serious.
Looking back, I recognized that sometimes it takes tough times to help us see what truly matters. The little things—a movie night, late-night snacks, or just hanging out—created a bond that felt even stronger. I discovered a newfound appreciation for the time we spent together and realized that, even in tough circumstances, the simple act of being there for each other can make all the difference. I think that corny saying goes - "I found beauty in the struggle."
Additionally, I began to appreciate the beauty found in silence and the simple act of taking a day to do absolutely nothing. In sharing this, I hope to encourage someone to embrace that kind of day—to skip washing your hair, curl up in a cozy blanket, drink enough coffee to fuel an army, and binge-watch an entire season of your favorite show in one go.
Those nagging thoughts about everything you "should" be doing? It’s time to ignore them, just this once. They’ll still be there tomorrow, or the day after that. Give yourself permission to take a moment for you and no one else.
And while you're at it, take a second to really look around. Even in the midst of tough times, there's so much to be grateful for. Maybe it’s the warmth of the sun filtering through your window, the sound of laughter from the next room, or the comfort of a favorite old blanket. No matter how daunting the challenges you’re facing, finding those small, beautiful moments can shift your perspective and remind you that life has its joys, even in the darkest times. So go ahead, carve out that time for yourself and rediscover the simple pleasures that can bring a sense of peace and gratitude back into your life.
As we wrap up this exploration of “The Beauty We Overlook,” I want to leave you with a gentle reminder: it’s often in the simplest moments that we find the most profound beauty. In a world that constantly urges us to be productive, to chase after the next big thing, we sometimes forget the power of stillness and reflection.
Taking a day for yourself—whether it’s spent in silence, wrapped in a cozy blanket, or lost in a marathon of your favorite show—can provide the clarity we need to appreciate the little joys that often go unnoticed. The unmade bed, the half-drunk cup of coffee, or even the quiet rhythm of your own breathing can remind us that beauty doesn’t always shout; sometimes, it whispers.
So, the next time you feel overwhelmed by the chaos of life, pause and look around. Notice the small things that make your heart a little lighter. They might be fleeting moments, but they hold immense value. Embrace those days where you allow yourself to do nothing and soak in the present. You may find that these are the moments that nourish your soul and remind you of what truly matters.
Ultimately, it’s about recognizing that beauty exists everywhere—even in our struggles and silence. Let’s not overlook it. Instead, let’s celebrate it, cherish it, and carry it with us as a reminder that life is filled with hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Take a breath, savor the simplicity, and remember: even in the most challenging times, beauty is always within reach.
Keep your coffee strong, and your worries weak.
~ Rach