The word “awesome” is commonly used to describe something good, or really cool.  However,  “awe” can, and perhaps should, be so much more than a casual term because there are experiences that require its usage to fully describe its meaning.  Maybe, this word could be reserved for the intense, breath-taking, moments that give our lives a capacity for pure joy and the buoyancy of the spirit that lives inside of every human being.

Awe is wonder-filled, full to the brim with wonder.  It is the kind of emotion one feels when watching the birth of a baby.  It is the experience of seeing the Grand Canyon or Michelangelo’s David.  Ordinary occurrences are transformed into extraordinary ones.  These events command the expression, “awesome.”

In an article, written by Paula Spencer Scott on this subject, “Feeling awe may be the secret to health and happiness.”  She quoted Albert Einstein, who described feelings of awe as “the source of all true art and science.”  I have felt awe when witnessing children’s capacity to react lovingly and compassionately when they have seen sorrow or distress in another person.  

Being in touch with nature is awe-inducing.  It has been known to relieve depression and boost one’s well-being.  Sharing awesome experiences can intensify them and bring great joy to both parties.  It is linked with physical and psychological healing.  Awe makes one happier and more peaceful and cooperative.

In this world of distractions and addiction to phones and other devices, we must make an effort to break away from these influences to feel the bliss of nature, art and other wonders in our lives. These are the ways to find the contentment that is sorely needed to counteract the negativity and stress of our daily routines.  These are moments that can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary.  It’s worth the effort.  We might even find addictions that are good for us.  That would truly be “awesome.”