The Glimpse

Did you catch it? The brief encounter… microsecond of magic… flash of insight… sense of wonder… hint of something more. You know it when you see (feel) it, and it may represent the shadow of opportunity in our lives, but only if our eyes and hearts are open to the glimpse. French philosopher Gabriel Marcel (1889-1973) believed glimpses represented the divine, a peek below the surface of our ordinary, everyday lives and provided a momentary connection with a greater, more potent reality.

But there’s a catch: us. As I think back on recent glimpses in my own life, a clear pattern emerges. Whether connected to family, athletics, nature, food or other microsecond glimpses beneath the ordinary, it always, and without exception, involves presence. If I’m watching my heart rate or pace on a run, I miss the glimpse. If I’m checking my Instagram account when at an event with the kids, it’s gone. If I’m thinking about my schedule tomorrow as the sun fades for the evening, no glimpse. The glimpse isn’t something occurring with our eyes or ears – it’s something accessed through our hearts.

The glimpse cannot be predicted, planned or prepped. But its potential can be nurtured, with art and music leading the way. German philosopher Martin Heidegger (1889-1976) viewed art and music as a catalyst for revealing greater depth in everyday life, a perspective he was far from alone in holding.  We may go days or weeks without experiencing a deeper glimpse beneath the surface. However, like begets like, and immersing ourselves in art, music, nature and settings ripe for such glimpses can turn the tide anew.

Did you see it? Can you feel it? The glimpse is there for each of us, awaiting our discovery. Keep dreaming with those eyes (and hearts) wide open, my friends.