by Paul Campbell SJ                                      USA               14.03.2026       

I understand that some people are “allergic” to poetry, but one of my favorites is so short and wondrous that I believe even those with a severe allergy can appreciate it.

It comes from the late-lamented Mary Oliver [d. 2019] and the title isn’t that much shorter than the entire poem – “Instructions for living a life.”

Pay attention.
Be astonished.
Tell about it.

In these seven words are a whole philosophy of life.

Pay Attention

• Being appreciatively aware of our surroundings is essential. Tony de Mello, the Indian Jesuit author, used to insist that we all need to “wake up.”
• As we pay attention, we become alive to the smallest details in our lives and can revel in nature and everyday “sacramental” moments. Doing this, we become more connected to the world with all its wonder and beauty.

Be Astonished

• Paying attention cultivates a sense of wonder within us. It opens us up to the miracles of the natural world and allows us to savor all its mysteries.
• The feeling of astonishment leads us to embrace feelings of awe, which can enrich our experiences and perspectives.

Tell About It

• In some sense, if we don’t share our observations and experiences with others, we’re short-circuiting the flow of the gift of paying attention.
• Further, in sharing what we notice we can come to a deeper understanding and a richer appreciation of life.
• Our sharing can inspire others to pay attention and, like us, to be astonished.

Let’s ask the Lord to help us pay more attention.