Finding Calm in a Noisy World
Sometimes when the news feels like too much, I just need to get outside. Sometimes I go no further than the yard, finding myself standing in front of the garden, catching my breath. Even when there are weeds to pull, I start to feel better almost immediately.
But why does that happen?
What Science Calls Soft Fascination
I recently learned about something called soft fascination, a state of mind where we give our attention to something that relieves stress rather than creating it. It's what we feel when we stand at the edge of a creek, a meadow, or a forest and find ourselves breathing deeper without even trying.
It's why stepping into the garden helps. It's why focusing on a houseplant can shift something in the room. And it's why looking at artwork that contains natural forms and organic shapes can offer the same quiet reset.
Soft fascination is a gentle, effortless state of attention that captures our interest without overloading our brain, allowing our mind to rest, recover from mental fatigue, and wander freely.
One of the most reliable ways to get there is simply by looking at organic shapes.
Take a Moment
I just finished this piece, and I thought you might enjoy a minute or two of simply looking at it. Let your eyes wander. Breathe. You don't need to read any further if you don't want to, just take a break from the news, or whatever else is feeling like too much right now.
“Family Tree” Photo transfers, acrylic, color pencil, wax pastel, ephemera and dried pressed leaves on cradled wood panel
About This Piece
Family Tree was painted this past weekend during four services at church. It was inspired by Paul's writing in Romans 11, where he describes how Gentiles were grafted into the family tree of the Israelites, all supported by the root of God's holiness.
I used imagery from different trees to illustrate that grafting, branches joined together, held by a shared network of roots. Surrounding the tree are several birds: a small living bird and a small dead one, referencing Jesus' words about how God cares for every bird that falls and how much more he cares for us. A raven recalls how God fed Elijah in the wilderness. An eagle points to Isaiah's promise that we will soar on eagle's wings.
Look carefully among the leaves and you may find butterflies, representing the transformation that the Spirit brings as we grow within God's family.
Where to Find It
Family Tree is currently on display at Bridgeway Christian Church if you want to see it in person and available by silent auction. If it's speaking to you, reach out by email for details.
