Sometimes I forget how great real life is. I automatically collapse in front of the TV instead of taking a moment to reflect on all the hilarious, touching, inspiring moments of my day.

Like the other day during class when I asked one of my kindergarteners why he had fought with his sister and he answered, in complete earnestness, “Because my butt.”  (When I burst out laughing, he rephrased: “Because she want to touch my butt.” Had to turn away and bury my face in the workbook in my hand.)

Or the other night when all the boys at the children’s home where I volunteer turned around (while in the middle of playing video games!) to say an enthusiastic goodbye to me. (The boy I actually teach piano to does his best to keep any emotion whatsoever from showing on his face when I’m around, but the way the other boys in his dorm smile their hellos or bring me coffee or carry the fan over to me shows me how much my presence matters…)

Or last night when I was hanging out with some friends and the quiet guy sitting in the corner got peer pressured into singing one of his original songs and completely blew us all away. Seeing this whole new side of him, such talent and depth and insight that I had no idea was there, I felt like I understood what life is supposed to be about.

Continual discovery. Wonder at the gold inside the ordinary person next to you. Delight in the little moments of connection. Laughter at the awkwardness of everyday life.

Let’s not let those moments slip by unnoticed.