I have found magic in the most strange place – occupations. Most people wouldn’t associate magic with careers outside of magicians, but I find it in most, if not every, profession someone tells me they have.
One of my favorite quotes comes from the novel The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho.
“The secret of happiness is to see all the marvels of the world, and never to forget the drops of oil on the spoon.”
The Alchemist
If you haven’t read the book, I highly suggest it. The quote, in its simplest form, means to live in the moment and see the beauty all around you without forgetting your purpose.
I find beauty everywhere. When I am in the moment, I also see the magic within it. As functioning adults in this society, we perform a duty that translates into something that helps society move forward. Whether you work for yourself, a corporation, or anything in between, we are part of a machine.
My job, for me, isn’t hard. I’ve been doing it for some time, and though there are challenges, it is nothing I am not equipped to handle. If someone with no background or skills in my job were to walk a day in my shoes, they might be overwhelmed by the tasks in my day-to-day. This, to me, is why I feel occupations are magical.
Some jobs are beyond our understanding unless you have the skills, know the processes, and/or have the experience. For example, I have no idea what it means to be an electrician, landscaper, fast food cook, corporation CEO, etc. But the fact some people can do the job and do it well is magical to me.
When I watch a house get constructed, I think about all the different things a place needs. Someone had to design the home and then work with the construction company to erect the house for practical use. An architect would probably look at me in a crazy way for saying that designing a house is magical, but I really want them to know that I see the beauty in their skills. Not everyone can create homes, and I find happiness in my curiosity and awe of the people who can.
The magic I see doesn’t just fill me with happiness. I am filled with gratitude as well. Every person has a part to play, and every occupation, whether society deems it a desirable job or not, is essential and should be valued.
What are some “unusual” things you find magical in your day-to-day?
Look Within 