Things Are Looking Up

We look to the sky

For wishing stars and for dreams

Until our necks ache. - Haiku #21

I do not know if it is a 'me' thing or an 'everyone' thing, but the physical gesture of looking up to the sky has profound meaning. I believe we all tilt our faces towards the warm sunshine on a cool day, or gaze up to the night sky to find the first star to whisper our wish to the universe, or seek beauty in sunrises and sunsets and imaginary cloud shapes.

When we are sad or confused, we look to the sky for clarity and guidance. Some call it God or a Higher Power and label it prayer. Others shout angry words at it to release the pain, and some create a life of studying it in an effort to make sense of it. It stirs in us a humble reminder of our smallness and insignificance in the universe, yet unites all of us, like distance lovers who feel connected by gazing at the same star when they are a hundred miles away from each other.

Looking up is not just a metaphor for optimism and positive thoughts. It is a real, kinesthetic behavior that brings about peace and clarity. Each day, step outside somewhere that offers you the opportunity to see the broadest swath of sky you can find. If it is overcast and grey, let imagination of the hidden sun guide your thoughts. If it is windy, look for birds and leaves to grow your knowledge of air currents. If it is dark, remind your self that there are more stars in the sky than there are grains of sand on all of the deserts and beaches on earth. Mind-blowing, right!?!

Walk, sit, hold hands and lay on your back in the grass. Just get outside and enjoy the wonder of the sky.