Savoring the Ordinary Minutes of Our Lives

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I remember watching the stage production of Thornton Wilder's "Our Town" in high school.  Being visually oriented, and loving the beauty of scenery, props and decorations, I was disappointed as I made my way down the aisle to my seat in the large auditorium.

All I saw on stage were 3 simple props: Two tall narrow ladders opened and ready, two tables and four chairs waiting for occupants.

As the play progressed, I understood why there was a dearth of visuals. The words were the important "props" in this play.  The words and actions created the ambiance.  The words revealed the meaning, the deep, but seemingly obvious meaning of Wilder's work.  It was spoken by Emily Webb:

"Do any human beings ever realize life while they live it? - every, every minute?"

As the stage was simply fitted, so these words are simply stated.  But, they are so profound.

And the answer, I believe, is NO.  We don't.  We don't appreciate even the small things of life.

So why is that?  Are we too preoccupied to notice?  Do we think them unimportant?

What do you think?

**Spoiler Alert** If you haven't seen the play, please do. . .and watch this again afterwards and savor it!  The Masterpiece Theatre 2003 production is the best there is, and performed in honor of the victims of 9/11