Be ‘Awestruck’ by Beauty!

Week 103: Be ‘Awestruck’ by Beauty!

?

When we think of awe, our minds often wander to the grandiose—a breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas, the vast expanse of the Grand Canyon, or the dazzling display of stars on a clear night. These moments, filled with natural beauty and grandeur, indeed evoke a sense of awe. However, scientific studies have revealed that awe is not confined to the extraordinary landscapes of the world. One of the most profound and everyday sources of awe is something more accessible and deeply human: moral beauty.

?

What is Moral Beauty?

?

Moral beauty refers to the awe we feel when witnessing acts of kindness, compassion, courage, and selflessness. It’s the feeling that wells up when someone goes out of their way to help a stranger, when we see an individual stand up for what’s right against overwhelming odds, or even when a friend forgives a wrongdoing with grace. These moments tap into our shared humanity, reminding us of the incredible potential for goodness that resides within us all.

?

Unlike awe inspired by nature, which often makes us feel small in the face of the universe's vastness, moral beauty evokes a sense of connection and possibility. It stirs something profound within us, encouraging us to reflect on our own capacity for good.

?

Awe and the Science of Moral Beauty

?

Researchers studying awe have found that moral beauty can be just as, if not more, powerful in evoking awe than natural wonders. It turns out that awe isn't just about feeling overwhelmed by size or scale; it's about experiencing something that transcends our ordinary understanding of the world.

?

When we witness moral beauty, our brain responds similarly to how it reacts to a stunning view. The same parts of the brain associated with perspective-taking and social bonding are activated. Moreover, these experiences of awe often lead to a shift in focus from ourselves to the larger collective. We feel inspired, humbled, and more inclined to contribute positively to the world.

?

Everyday Awe: Finding Inspiration in Moral Acts

?

The beauty of moral awe lies in its accessibility. You don’t need to climb a mountain or travel to distant lands to feel it. It's present in our daily lives:

?

- Watching a teacher patiently guide a struggling student.

- Seeing someone stand up for another person facing injustice.

- Observing a community come together to support a family in need.

- Experiencing a small act of kindness, like a stranger offering their seat or holding a door open.

?

These moments remind us of the innate goodness in people. They inspire us to act with kindness and integrity, fostering a ripple effect of positivity.

?

Why This Matters

?

Awe from moral beauty does more than just make us feel good—it has the power to change us. Studies show that awe can lead to increased generosity, greater life satisfaction, and a stronger sense of purpose. When we feel awe through moral beauty, we are reminded that we, too, can contribute to this shared tapestry of humanity. It’s a gentle yet powerful push to live by our highest values and bring out the best in ourselves and others.

?

How to Cultivate Awe Through Moral Beauty

?

1. Be Present: Often, we miss moments of moral beauty because we’re distracted. Practice mindfulness to be more attuned to the goodness around you.

??

2. Seek Stories of Kindness: Look for stories of everyday heroism, kindness, and compassion. These can be a source of daily inspiration.

?

3. Celebrate Small Acts: Don’t wait for grand gestures. Celebrate small acts of kindness in your life and recognize them in others.

?

4. Reflect on Moral Beauty: Take a moment each day to reflect on acts of moral beauty you’ve witnessed or participated in. This practice can help you cultivate a mindset of gratitude and inspiration.

?

Conclusion

?

Awe is not reserved for the rare and extraordinary. Through moral beauty, awe becomes a part of our everyday lives, reminding us of our shared humanity and the boundless potential for good. By opening our hearts to these moments, we not only feel inspired but also become a source of inspiration for others. Moral beauty is the everyday spark that keeps the light of awe alive, showing us that we don’t have to look far to find it.