Summer brings days of vacation for many of us. Perhaps it is to visit family, disappear from the grid, or invest in a learning moment at a conference. Jan and I traveled to Wyoming to visit the Grand Teton Park and Yellowstone. Beauty surrounded us. Even more, we encountered moments of emotion with feelings of being struck by Awe. In a new episode of Tracks for the Journey, I explore what science and faith are learning about this vital human experience. The insights of Cole Arthur Riley, Victor Frankel, David Ray Griffin, and Summer Allen add breadth to the discussion.

Segments of the Episode “Awestruck!” include:

• Awestruck and Science

• Faith and awe

• Be present and engaged for awe

The Episode begins…

“Every second that ticks by 700,000 gallons of water gush over Niagara Falls! Jan and I stood on the observation platform a few years ago, just feet from the immense cascade. We donned the free ponchos and watched the unending flow thundering nearby, so powerful we could feel the concussion throbbing through us. Later, we rode the Maid of the Mist boat, drenched in the cool fog that rose from the deluge and enveloped us. The experience invoked awe, especially from the perspective of a resident of semi-arid West Texas!

I’m Larry Payne, the host of Tracks for the Journey, a network dedicated to your well-being. I’m sure you’ve had a few experiences that have gripped you with awe, amazement, or wonder. The emotion propels us to see the world in a different way. I invite you to explore with me why awe means so much to our human journey.

I’ll admit the feeling of Awe is rare for me, and maybe for you too. This is not good, because, as Dr. Brene Brown writes, “Awe and wonder are essential to the human experience.”[1]

[1] Brene Brown, Atlas of the Heart. Random House, 2021, p 59.

Click here to read, listen, or watch the episode. Find more resources and the link to all previous episodes on my website www.tracksforthejourney.com

^{The Tracks for the Journey Network appreciates your financial support. And here’s my gift back to you: a signed, 8”X11” print of the Jenny Lake photo shown above! For your gift of $25, I’ll mail this to you, along with a story of the recent journey to one of the most beautiful places in North America. Join me with your contribution that spreads the message of well-being through progressive Christian theology, positive psychology, healthy relationships, and a just society. Thank you!}

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