Welcome to the December installment, and the last, of our year-long essay series that explores topics to help us all experience a more mindful, present, and connected life. In this month of holidays, Community Engagement Manager Kimberly Crowther Miller discovers how magic shows up in our lives not just during the holidays, but every day. As long as we believe.

Musings on the magic of everyday life

“Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it.” ~ Roald Dahl

To the delight of my five-year-old son, his Elf on a Shelf®, O’Toole, arrived this past weekend for his annual month-long visit. As I’ve haphazardly prepared for the holiday season, I’ve found myself wondering how I’m going to maintain the mystique of Santa and his little scout elf — and the holiday season in general — for another three or four years.

Up to now, my son hasn’t asked many questions about these magical holiday traditions, but I know that’s about to change. I want to be prepared to answer his questions, which got me to thinking about my own beliefs about magic. Is it real? How can I be truthful as I explain magic while maintaining the excitement and wonder of a child?

Curious, I asked friends whether they believed in magic. What is it and where is it found? The responses I received were inspiring and reminded me that while this time of year is especially enchanting, magic exists every day and everywhere. Here is a summary of what I learned.

Magic takes your breath away; it brings tears to your eyes
Magic is an experience that touches your soul so deeply that it takes your breath away and brings tears to your eyes. Hearing a song performed by a renowned singer, seeing a work of art by one of the masters, or witnessing two people in love exchange vows are examples of moments described as pure magic.

Magic is stillness; connection
A sense of peacefulness and connection to a higher energy, whether it’s the Holy Spirit, God, or the Universe is another way magic is experienced. An overwhelming sense of gratitude, humility, grace, and love is yours by simply being still through prayer and meditation.

Magic is found in nature
Sunlight glinting through the swaying branches of a tree on a breezy day elicits an aura of magic. We have all had those moments of awe inspired by nature. A panoramic view from a mountain top or ocean waves crashing on the shore is nothing short of spectacular.

Magic is imagination; human ingenuity
Storytellers and inventors may be the most skilled at harnessing the magic of words and ideas. Books, movies, and places captivate the imagination and transport us to another place and time. Products and services that make the world a better place transform our lives. (If you think about it, a TV or garage door remote control is a magic wand of sorts.)

Magic is kindness and goodwill
Perhaps the purest form of magic is demonstrated through words and actions that unite rather than divide one another. Thankfully, for every tragic or horrifying story we hear in the news, countless other expressions of love, understanding, and hope can be observed if you know where to look. Maybe, if we’re lucky, we’re the ones ready to lend a helping hand and spread a little magic in the lives of others.

Though Santa will one day no longer bear gifts of toys and games, and O’Toole’s antics will fade into happy memories,  I’m confident that magic will always exist for both of us.

Do you believe in magic? Here’s to hoping you do, and warm wishes in finding much of it this holiday season and in the New Year.

Other articles in this series
January:  Welcome to a Bright New Year
February:  Passion & Possibility
March:  Curiosity & Creativity
April:  Turn Your Passion into Action
May:  Words of Wisdom
June:  Always There
July:  Pass the Ketchup, Please
August:  The Moment of Truth
September:  Being an Adult is Overrated
October:  Why we Fall in Love with Autumn in Arizona
November:  Practicing Gratitude