I’ve always loved benches…looking at them that is. My life is always in such a rush. I’ve always wondered why people seem to love sitting on them so much. Recently, on my walks, in my travels, everywhere I go, I’ve started to notice them more, especially when I’m alone. And so I’ve come to experiment and have acquired a new appreciation in their potential to inspire.
“With an eye made quiet by the power of harmony, and the deep power of joy, we see into the life of things.” William Wordsworth
I think benches are a subtle invitation to join the party. Benches ask you to slow down and take the time to just “be” in a setting. Benches ask us to become a part of the picture. To think. To contemplate. To just exist freely in the moment. To observe. To see what’s around us and to take it all in. When you sit on a bench, you join the scenery.
Benches Are Everywhere!
I notice benches now, wherever I go. If I’m on my own, I’ll try to carve out some time to sit and enjoy myself. Sure, you can also bring along your coffee, take time to read the morning paper or and afternoon with a book. But for me, just taking the time to look around me is transporting. It’s not passive. It’s an active and purposeful engagement with everything I see.
Take a Front Row Seat!
I also love to take a step back and think about why someone actually took the time and effort to plan where a particular bench is placed and why. And I understand better now, why people put plaques to loved ones on benches. Benches are places where you can go and sit on your own yet feel a part of all that’s around you. You can completely connect with the environment.
Benches in Beautiful Settings
Benches are a wonderful discovery for “A Table For One” experience. They provide a unique opportunity to take a front row seat to your surroundings, to relax and and to join the setting. Treat yourself. Go out and find a bench for yourself…and enjoy the art of being alone!
Copyright 2015 Marion O’Grady