“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.”
This powerful advice comes from the master of whimsy and wonder, Roald Dahl. The words, featured in his book The Minpins, encapsulate a philosophy that extends far beyond children’s literature. It serves as a timeless reminder for people of all ages. Specifically, it encourages us to approach life with a sense of curiosity, openness, and excitement. Dahl suggests that the world holds incredible secrets for those willing to look for them. However, you must first believe that something magical is out there waiting to be found. This mindset is the key to unlocking a more vibrant and fulfilling existence.
The Art of Watching with Glittering Eyes
What does it truly mean to “watch with glittering eyes”? It means looking beyond the surface of the mundane. It is an active, engaged form of observation, filled with enthusiasm and anticipation. Instead of just seeing a tree, you notice the intricate patterns of its bark. You might see the way sunlight filters through its leaves. This perspective transforms everyday experiences from routine events into opportunities for discovery. It is the difference between passively existing and actively living.
Furthermore, this mindset encourages a playful curiosity. Children naturally possess this quality. They ask endless questions and explore their surroundings without preconceived notions. As adults, we often lose this sense of wonder. We become preoccupied with responsibilities and routines. Dahl’s quote urges us to reclaim that childlike awe. By doing so, we open ourselves up to the beauty and mystery that constantly surrounds us. It is about choosing to see the world not as a dull, predictable place, but as a treasure chest of secrets.
Finding Secrets in Unlikely Places
The quote continues by stating that the “greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places.” This idea challenges us to look beyond the obvious and predictable. Breakthroughs in science, art, and personal growth rarely happen on a well-trodden path. For instance, Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin by chance through a contaminated petri dish—a very unlikely place. His glittering eyes saw a secret where others might have only seen a mistake. This is a powerful lesson in perspective.
To apply this in our own lives, we must cultivate a habit of exploring the unfamiliar. This could mean trying a new hobby or striking up a conversation with a stranger. It could also mean reading a book on a topic you know nothing about. When we break from our routines, we expose ourselves to new ideas and possibilities. Consequently, we increase our chances of stumbling upon one of life’s hidden secrets. These secrets might be a new passion, a profound insight, or a life-changing friendship. They are waiting in the places we least expect.
Why You Must Believe in Magic
The final line is perhaps the most profound: “Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it.” Here, “magic” does not refer to spells or sorcery. Instead, it represents the extraordinary moments of awe, serendipity, and profound connection that make life meaningful. It is the feeling of watching a breathtaking sunset or the joy of an unexpected kindness. A cynical or closed mind will dismiss these moments as mere coincidence or sentimentality. Therefore, such a person effectively makes themselves blind to the magic.
Belief is the prerequisite for discovery. If you do not believe there is anything special to find, you will not bother to look. Your reality, as a result, becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. On the other hand, approaching the world with a belief in magic primes your mind to notice it. Recent psychological research supports this notion. Studies show that cultivating a sense of awe and wonder can lead to increased happiness and well-being. . Source
In conclusion, Roald Dahl’s quote is a beautiful manifesto for a life well-lived. It calls on us to remain curious, to look closer, and to hold onto a sense of wonder. By watching the world with glittering eyes, we can uncover the secrets hidden in plain sight. We can find the magic that is always there, waiting for those who are willing to believe.