That View Just Takes My Breath Away!

I am sure you have said this at least once in your life. In the Jewish tradition, we say a blessing when seeing something that takes our breath away. This is an acknowledgement that a higher power created what we are seeing. 

In common terms we often speak of being in awe of something. If we follow through on that, what does it really mean? According to the dictionary “Awe is a complex emotion characterized by a profound mix of wonder, respect, and often a touch of fear or reverence when facing something vast, grand, or extremely powerful. ” Thus when we say we are in awe of something, it is an acknowledgement of a higher spirit. 

This then becomes a time for gratitude. Gratitude that the higher spirit created this awesomeness and allowed one to see that. I have modified some Jewish prayers that could be used to acknowledge this gratitude.

• Thank you Creator for filling the world with beauty.

• Thank you Creator for having such beautiful things in the world.

• Thank you Creator for allowing me to see this beauty. 

Remember, as you are walking, hiking or driving and see something that takes your breath away to be grateful. Acknowledge Who created that and Who is sharing that with you. Doing this you will find greater appreciation for the natural world as well as see more of the beauty surrounding you. So take the time to be grateful and use either the words here or better yet, express them from your heart.