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With Mayo Clinic oncologist Edward T. Creagan, M.D.

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September 19, 2008

Magical moments provide a boost

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By Edward T. Creagan, M.D.

As is my usual routine, I awoke in the predawn darkness about 4:45 and knew I had to put in about eight miles. Our next marathon, the Twin Cities Marathon, is in early October and it can be an unforgiving distance if training becomes marginal. I am not complaining; the gift of running is one of the better parts of the day. But now for the rest of the story.

Approximately one mile from home, I crested a small hill and was absolutely overwhelmed by the beauty of the fiery red sun on the subtly changing colors of the leaves. It was a magical moment of peace, serenity, and well-being. I stopped for a minute or two, savored the energy and the beauty of the moment, and then prepared for the rest of the day.

So, what is the lesson here? Each of us would have our own interpretation of this moment, but let me share a few with you.

OK, the good guys do not always win, good people have bad things happen to them, and there are troubles in the world. But, there also are moments of beauty and peace.
These moments are all around us. Most of us are just too busy and too frantic to see them.

I am reminded of some of the wise words from spiritual thinkers from a variety of traditions. Let me paraphrase some of these messages.

Yes, we do need to slow down and rest.
If we stay in the moment, if we stay in the present, we can enjoy the goodness that surrounds all of us.

What magical moments have you experienced, things from which we can all be energized?

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13 comments posted

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September 29, 2008 7:40 a.m.

Dr. Creagan: Wonderful article. All my life I have marked what I called "magical days" - days when a magical experience occurs, such as you describe. I often think about these magical days when I am stressed or feeling a little blue. I have told many people about my magical days, and no one seemed to understand - Thank you for explaining it so well. Wishing all who read my posting magical days of their own.

- JMAC

September 25, 2008 12:38 p.m.

I feel guilty when I enjoy or have these types of experiences. My husband doesn't share or understand the feelings that I have with these experiences.

- No name given

September 24, 2008 7:55 p.m.

This is the best posting I've read. Moments out of time, synchronistic moments.

- EstherG

September 24, 2008 2:54 p.m.

When therapists said to recall a quiet place, I had a hard time. I have finally found it. As I lay on seventh floor balcony lounge and gaze across the treetops at powderpuff clouds floating on azure silk above a dove grey horizon, I completely relax. Now, if I can only motivate myself to exercise more.

- Roberta S.

September 24, 2008 1:02 p.m.

The Bible says "Be still and know that I am God" The creator knew we needed those serenity moments!

- Mary Lynn

September 24, 2008 12:21 p.m.

seeing a "double rainbow" for the first time in my 72 year memory, i was absolutely amazed. i don't remember ever seeing that before and I was so much closer to God and "Mother Nature" at that moment.

- mary ann

September 24, 2008 11:27 a.m.

Great technique for stress reduction! I use the magic of a memory that is guarenteed to make me smile and some times chuckle out loud. This technique works best when shared....so here is my authentic chuckle for you....One night I dreamed, I was wrestling a bear, I was struggling inside it's arms avoiding its teeth by getting in close...the smell, the heat, it was so real...when I opened my eyes with a gasp I found I had my face pressed into my husbands armpit! I laughed till I cried! I hope this makes you smile too!

- Reenie

September 23, 2008 8:31 p.m.

I can find great joy in the beauty of God's world by taking time to observe the clouds in the sky. Their ever changing beauty never ceases to awe and relax me.

- Gail

September 23, 2008 1:55 p.m.

Being out in the morning just before the sun crests the horizon and the moment the first peak of sunrays breaking through you can and see and feel God in all His glory. Being so quiet and tranquil, taking the time to listen to things that are normally missed in the business of the day, even if for only a moment, to just be still and soak it all in.

- nixgrl

September 21, 2008 1:44 p.m.

There have been a number of times of stressfull situations getting to my destination. As a truck driver I know the benifits of exercising. So it's an uplifting experience when I get hit with a natural high when i get out of my truck after a long drive.

- garyk