This painting, even though it's been years since I first saw it, pops into my consciousness weekly if not daily. I've used those words as a gentle reminder many times to keep my head up and be brave during hard situations. Because, while the painter was correct by implying that posing as a tourist does make you more vulnerable, overcoming obstacles and challenges within that context lends greater wisdom, fulfillment, happiness, and inspiration.
The last time I remembered to look up was yesterday evening driving down Welsh Tract Road in the snow on my way home from work. I was the only one on the road and decided to take that opportunity to slow down and actually look at the snow fall around me. I looked at snow rushing at me through my high beams and the tall bare trees naked until spring high up above me blocking out the moon. Suddenly, I thought "I wonder what it's like to drive through the Redwood Forest." I can only imagine that walking up to an ancient tree 500 x's my size, not being able to see the top is astounding. God's creation is magnificent, awe inspiring, and a wonderful reminder of our own life being in constant contact with others; to be able to be in the magnificent presence of the life in the Redwood's would be a-very-close-to-perfect-kind-of-beautiful. If I hadn't looked up that night maybe I wouldn't know what I'd be missing-a quiet snow fall seldom noticed-but I'm very glad I did.
I hope everyday you allow yourself to be a tourist. Look up and open yourself up to life around you. Because, really, it's beautiful