Right Where You're Sitting

Exploration 1. Write ten things about where you are sitting right now that you hadn't noticed when you sat down.

1. When I sat down in the library, on the comfy couches by the front door, I didn't notice that I was hungry. I decided to wait til after I worked on homework to eat anything.

2. I didn't notice how goofy the librarian was, but after listening to her train in two new night guys, it became pretty clear.

3. I didn't notice the rack of books to help college students that sits on the other side of this couch.

4. I didn't notice the chill in the room. Why are the buildings always so cold here?

5. I hadn't noticed that there was a rack of DVDs set up not far from where I sat. I'll have to take a look at those later.

6. I hadn't noticed the different designs on the pillows on this couch. one has swirls, the other a neat pattern of circles and diamonds in rows separated by rows of regular soft material.

7. I hadn't noticed the blue lights hanging down from the ceiling. They look out of place since the rest of the room is designed with different shades of brown. They look like upside down wine glasses.

8. I hadn't noticed the chess board on the little coffee table between the chairs. I wish I knew how to play.

9. I hadn't noticed the smell of burnt pizza. That's a weird thing to have in a library.

10. Finally, I didn't realize how quite this room can get until there's at least a couple of minutes when the door isn't opening and closing.

I am in this room regularly, on this couch, working on homework or reading a book waiting for my next class. But it is so rare that I notice the things around me because I'm so focused on what I'm working on. It's interesting to slow down and be able to allow myself to notice and think about things that are around me.