Taking in the Awe

by Jeffery A. Keill, CFP, CIM, FMA, FCSI, CEA

Sitting around the fire with family not so long ago, we discussed the importance of living in the “Awe” of life. Letting go, even for a second, all which is tangible or economically advancing. Becoming once again the child that we all undoubtedly are but hubris keeps from us. Although it seemed we all agreed of the value of living in the Awe, we seemed to battle the societal proposition of exacting from it possibly  more than required to see it clearly, if that is even possible. Leaving the special moment to extract what worldly value there is to grasp. That is to say, to better oneself and that of society- which is a noble act- and in doing so missing the opportunity to live in the Awe of that moment. You can not witness the majestic flight of a bumble bee while clinging to the reason of how. You can not look with awe upon the inspiration of Claude Monet while concentrating on the stroke of his brush. In a world, a modern western societal world, that to often demands speed, productivity, and certainty, awe is a quiet rebellion. It’s the sincerest moment when you pause- not because you must, but because something magnificent insists you do. Something not of this world presents itself from something of this world. Awe is the challenge before us to live with our senses wide open and free from constraint of reason. It’s watching the golden sunrise on a frozen lake, the unified hush of a maple bush as the sunsets, the sound of a child’s laughter as if joy was finally invented, or as the case a few nights ago, standing beneath a Manitoba sky so full of stars it feels like the universe is calling you up to join its immensity. Leaving you to abandon the gravity that binds you to this world. Awe doesn’t require grand gestures or fantastic moments. It thrives and lives in the ordinary of our lives if we process the ability to see. Blessed are those who see without looking to closely. Blessed are the people who can live in the Awe.

Posted on September 18, 2025