Rebuilding Your Life With Wonder

Rebuilding your life after experiencing a soul-crushing loss is a journey for which no one feels genuinely prepared. I remember the day my world shattered. Standing in empty rooms that once echoed with laughter and love, I felt utterly unmoored. The weight of grief pressed down on me, transforming a once-vibrant leader into someone overwhelmed by the prospect of rebuilding. I’d just lost my husband, and imagining beauty or wonder in my new reality seemed impossible. Perhaps you can relate.

When trauma or tragedy strikes, it’s as if a veil descends, obscuring our ability to see anything good or awe-inspiring in our surroundings. Loss, whether it comes in the form of grief, heartbreak, or a devastating life change, leaves us facing a life that looks nothing like what we once knew. But sometimes, it’s precisely in these moments—where things feel broken and unfinished—that we begin to find awe, to see God’s hand and His presence in surprising ways.

Awe—that feeling of reverential respect mixed with fear or wonder—has the power to shift our perspective, even in the darkest times. It reminds us that there’s still vastness and mystery in the world beyond our immediate pain. But how do we open our eyes to see it?

Nehemiah’s story offers us a powerful example. Returning to Jerusalem after its destruction, he could’ve been overwhelmed by the devastation. Instead, he saw possibility. As he rallied the people to rebuild the city walls, Nehemiah approached the task with awe at God’s faithfulness and the community’s resilience. Each stone laid was a testament to hope and renewal.

Like Nehemiah, we, too, can find wonder as we rebuild our lives. Here are some practical steps with journal prompts to cultivate awe in your journey:

Slow Down and Observe

“What are the small ways I’ve seen God’s hand at work in my day-to-day life recently?”

In our rush to “fix” everything, we often overlook the small miracles happening around us. Take time each day to pause and really look at your surroundings. Notice the play of light on leaves, the intricate pattern in your sweater’s weaving, or the kindness in a stranger’s smile.

Engage Your Senses

“What sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures do I find most calming or grounding?”

The natural world is full of awe-inspiring moments, but when we’re in pain, our senses can be overwhelmed by the intensity of our emotions. Purposefully engaging your senses can help ground you in the present and remind you that there’s still wonder in the world. Take a walk and feel the warmth of sunshine on your skin, notice the different colors and textures around you, savor your favorite food, play soothing music, or light candles with your favorite scents.

Connect with Others

“Who are people in my life who bring joy and encouragement, even when things are hard?

In times of struggle, having a supportive community is crucial. Don’t hesitate to lean on friends or family for support and moments where you can find joy together. Even a simple conversation or shared activity can remind you of the beauty and wonder in relationships.

Look Back and Ahead

“What moments from my past have brought awe, and how can I incorporate them into my future?”

Reflecting on past experiences that brought you a sense of awe or wonder is a powerful way to cultivate it in your present. Think back to times when you felt amazed by the world around you, whether watching a sunrise, playing a game, or creating something with your own hands. Use these memories as inspiration for new experiences and activities to bring wonder into your life.

Embrace New Experiences

“What is something new I’ve always wanted to try but haven’t yet?”

Stepping out of your comfort zone and trying new things can be scary, especially when feeling vulnerable. But it’s also an opportunity to discover new sources of wonder and beauty. Whether it’s a new hobby, travel destination, or even just trying a different type of food, embracing novelty can open your eyes to the incredible diversity and creativity in the world.

Of course, cultivating awe isn’t always easy, especially when dealing with depression, anxiety, or grief. These emotions can act like blinders, narrowing our focus to our pain. On days when wonder feels out of reach, be gentle with yourself. Sometimes, the most awe-inspiring act is simply getting out of bed and facing another day.

As you embark on this path of rebuilding with wonder, hold onto these words from When Your World Ends: “To succeed in joining God in shaping our lives and the world around us, we must see ourselves and all his creation as He does.”

This journey of rediscovering awe isn’t about denying your pain or pretending everything is fine. It’s about seeing God’s creation as He does. That is, it’s about expanding your vision to include both sorrow and wonder. It’s about recognizing that even as you rebuild, moments of breathtaking beauty are waiting to be noticed.

So today, as you continue the hard work of rebuilding your life, I challenge you to look for awe. It might be in the kindness of a friend, the resilience of a plant pushing through concrete, or in your own strength as you face another day. Let these moments of wonder remind you that even in the aftermath of loss, there is still beauty to be found, growth to be had, and a future filled with possibility.

Your journey of rebuilding is unique, but you’re not alone in it. As you learn to see with new eyes, may you find comfort, strength, and, yes, even awe in the process. The world may look different now, but it’s still full of wonders waiting for you to discover. Your task is simply to open your heart to them.