Lia Purpura’s quote, “It’s the noticing that cracks us open, lets something in,” perfectly captures the quiet power of observation. I’ve come to believe that if there’s one practice I need to cultivate more intentionally, it is this simple act of noticing. This is about more than casually observing the flowers and trees on a walk; it’s about a deeper engagement with everything around, especially the people I care about.
The practice of noticing others is the foundation of empathy and true connection. Every human gives off countless small signals—a slight slump of the shoulders, a fleeting flicker of sadness in their eyes, or a forced laugh that doesn’t quite reach their voice. To the observant eye, these subtle cues are a language of their own. They help us understand a friend’s unspoken struggles, offer comfort in the right way at the right time, and grasp a truth that is right in front of our faces but often missed. By paying attention to these details, we move beyond superficial conversation and create a space where genuine understanding can flourish.
Beyond strengthening our relationships with others, the act of noticing is a journey inward. As Purpura suggests, this heightened awareness cracks us open, creating a space for self-discovery. When we observe the world with an open heart and mind, we learn about ourselves. We notice which stories make our souls stir, which injustices ignite a fire, and which moments of simple beauty bring us an unexpected sense of peace. These external observations become a mirror, reflecting our own values, passions, and emotional landscape. We begin to understand what moves our spirit and what truly matters.
The practice of noticing is a two-way street. It is a generous gift we give to the world by seeing others, and a gift we receive in return through a clearer understanding of ourselves. It transforms passive existence into a life of active engagement, allowing us to connect more deeply, live more authentically, and truly let in something meaningful.
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