25 February 2021
I recently stopped at one of my favorite Greek cafe’s, in a cozy part of town, for an early Saturday lunch. As I was sitting there on the outdoor terrace, by myself, I found that I had nothing to do – no conversations to strike up, and no interest in mindlessly engaging with my phone. So instead, I decided to savor the experience. I took in the blue, crisp sky, I felt the refreshing, cool breeze on my body, and I smelled the richness of the mug of coffee I was holding in my hands. I watched a couple, who were seated next to me, catch up with each other. Their conversation was pleasant, reminiscing of their days of being in high school together. I noticed that they seemed to be savoring each other’s long, lost company.
What would you savor today? When we look closely at the definition of the word “savor” it seems to limit the depth of our enjoyment only to the sense of taste. The official definition of savor is “taste (good food or drink) and enjoy it completely.” The five senses are often overlooked, but so precious to life itself. Your only link to the outside world comes in through five sensory perceptions. When you see something, the image you see is experienced by the brain (an inner phenomenon). As a matter of fact, all sensations which link you to the “outer” world are experienced internally. The vastness of your internal dimension is bewildering. So deliberately take in everything, but take it in peacefully, appreciatively, and with great care. Savor something, or better yet, someone – today. Savor them now, because they will change, or be taken away in a flash. Deepen your appreciation for your aliveness by connecting to, and savoring the inner miracle of the five senses. They will deepen your connection to what it really means to be a human.