Do you ever feel like you are running on a treadmill? Each day blurs into the next. We answer emails, attend meetings, and complete chores. The vibrant colors of the world seem to fade into a dull gray. We often forget the childhood magic of seeing things for the first time. However, the celebrated author Roald Dahl left us a powerful reminder. He gave us a map back to a more enchanted way of living.
“And above all, watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places. Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it.”. Source
This timeless advice encourages us to look beyond the mundane. It invites us to rediscover the wonder that surrounds us every single day. The world holds countless secrets for those willing to look. Roald Dahl | Biography, Books, Movies, & Facts
. Roald Dahl | Biography, Books, Movies, & Facts | Britannica
The Fading Spark: Why We Lose Our Wonder
As children, the world is a playground of discovery. A puddle is an ocean. A cardboard box is a castle. But as we grow, this natural sense of wonder often diminishes. Adult responsibilities demand our focus. We start prioritizing efficiency over exploration. Consequently, our minds build routines that shield us from distraction but also from discovery. The daily commute becomes a blur. We stop noticing the changing seasons or the architecture of our own city.
Furthermore, a constant stream of digital information pulls our attention away from our immediate surroundings. Our phones buzz with notifications, news alerts, and social media updates. This digital noise trains our brains to seek constant, rapid stimulation. As a result, the quiet, subtle wonders of the physical world struggle to compete. We trade the intricate patterns of a spider’s web for the endless scroll of a newsfeed. Cynicism can also take hold, convincing us that we have seen it all before. We lose our ‘glittering eyes‘ not overnight, but gradually, one unnoticed sunset at a time.
How to See with Glittering Eyes Again
Reclaiming your sense of wonder is not about abandoning your responsibilities. Instead, it is about changing your perspective. You can consciously integrate small practices into your daily life to find the magic hidden in plain sight. It begins with the simple decision to pay attention. Roald Dahl – Biography and Works
Practice Mindful Observation
Start by engaging your senses wherever you are. When you drink your morning coffee, for example, truly savor its aroma and warmth. On your walk, pause to feel the texture of a leaf or notice the way sunlight filters through the branches. This practice of mindfulness pulls you into the present moment. It quiets the mental chatter that prevents you from seeing what is right in front of you. You don’t need to meditate for hours; a few moments of focused attention can make a significant difference. Roald Dahl – The Roald Dahl Story Company
Explore the Unfamiliar
Dahl points out that secrets hide in ‘unlikely places.’ You can find these places everywhere. Try taking a different route home from work. Visit a small, local museum you have always overlooked. Or, simply explore a section of the grocery store you never visit. Breaking from your routine, even in small ways, forces your brain to engage with new stimuli. This novelty is a powerful catalyst for wonder. It reminds you that there is always something new to learn and experience.
Cultivate Insatiable Curiosity
Children constantly ask ‘why?’ As adults, we often stop asking. Rekindle that curiosity. If you see an interesting bird, look it up. If you wonder how a bridge stays up, find out. Let your curiosity guide you down rabbit holes of learning. Reading books on new subjects, listening to podcasts, or watching documentaries can reignite your passion for knowledge. Indeed, an inquisitive mind is a magnet for wonder. Every answer you find often leads to more fascinating questions. Roald Dahl – The Official Website
The Powerful Payoff of Embracing Wonder
Watching the world with glittering eyes does more than just make life more interesting. It offers profound benefits for your well-being and creativity. When you actively look for the extraordinary, you shift your brain out of autopilot. This new perspective helps you see problems in different ways and can unlock innovative solutions.
Moreover, the experience of awe is incredibly beneficial for mental health. Psychologists have found that moments of wonder can reduce stress and increase feelings of connectedness. This positive emotional state can lead to greater life satisfaction and overall happiness. In fact, people who regularly seek out new experiences often report higher levels of contentment. Source
Finally, a sense of wonder deepens your connection to the world and the people in it. When you pay closer attention to your environment, you also become more attuned to the people you share it with. You might notice a coworker’s new haircut or the kindness of a stranger. These small observations build empathy and strengthen social bonds, making life richer and more meaningful.
In summary, Roald Dahl’s message is a simple yet powerful prescription for a more joyful life. The greatest secrets are indeed all around us. You just need to remember to look. So today, put down your phone for a moment. Step outside. And challenge yourself to find one small, magical thing. Watch the world with glittering eyes—you will be amazed at what you find.