Sometimes we become so focused on the turmoil, we forget to see the charm that surrounds us. Consumed by our to- do lists and home obligations, we forget to look, listen, and feel. Plenty of obstacles can devitalize teachers. And sometimes we can get in the habit of stewing in our malaise. So we must be intentional about looking for and absorbing the charming sights, sounds, and feelings that surround us. Like vitamins for the soul, moments of charm can boost and revive. The simplest things can bring us back to the roots and bounty of our lives: The giggle of a child. The good- natured sparring of teenagers. The fearlessly perched raven watching traffic from a stop sign. The pattern of a spiderweb and the brilliance of the spider that wove it. The easy laughter of friends. The look of wonder when a student “gets it.” The beauty of young musicians as they personify music. The brisk gait of an elderly neighbor. The pure joy of singing with abandon. The first sip of your morning coffee. The scent of a book. The frenzied cheers of parents at a sporting event. The embracing hug of a loved one. The luxury of living without pain. The buzz of energy when school begins and ends. The allure of these charming moments can be smothered by our intense focus on work and troubles. Yes, these simple moments of charm are always there for us . . . when we notice them. We can inhale their whimsy and encourage ourselves to smile, laugh, and be glad for the moment. Seeing, hearing, and appreciating simple things returns the aesthetic to our anesthetic worlds. When we look for and feel those moments of charm, we can be grateful. Those moments remind us we are alive in the world.
The dancer at work: The aesthetic and politics of practice clothes and leotard costumes in ballet performance
