Awakening to Life Through Grateful Awareness
Created at: May 8, 2025
We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures. — Thornton Wilder
The Essence of Conscious Living
Thornton Wilder’s assertion draws attention to a crucial distinction between mere existence and true living. By stating that we are only alive when conscious of our treasures, he implies that daily routines and passive moments lack the fullness of genuine experience. Instead, it is the act of mindful appreciation—when the heart actively recognizes the good in our lives—that breathes energy and depth into existence.
Understanding ‘Our Treasures’
The phrase ‘our treasures’ invokes more than material wealth; it encompasses relationships, health, talents, and fleeting joys. Wilder’s language invites us to broaden our definition of what is valuable. For example, Anne Frank, in her famous diary, often reflected on the beauty of nature and the solace of friendship, even amid adversity, showing how such awareness can sustain the human spirit.
The Role of Gratitude in Well-Being
Transitioning from the identification of treasures to their impact, it is clear that gratitude amplifies life’s richness. Psychological studies, such as those by Robert Emmons (2007), have shown that regularly acknowledging one’s blessings increases happiness and resilience. This echoes Wilder’s sentiment, suggesting that gratitude is transformative—it shifts our focus from lack to abundance, allowing us to feel more present and alive.
Moments of Mindful Presence
Building on gratitude, moments when the heart is truly conscious often coincide with mindfulness. Practices like meditation or journaling sharpen our awareness of the present, enabling us to ‘see’ the treasures that otherwise pass unnoticed. Buddhist teachings similarly emphasize awakening from habitual patterns to cultivate appreciation for each moment, thus bringing Wilder’s reflection into a universal context.
Cultivating a Heart of Awareness
Ultimately, Wilder encourages us to intentionally foster a conscious heart—not one numbed by routine, but attuned to joy, connection, and meaning. By regularly pausing to acknowledge what we cherish, we revitalize our experience of life. As Viktor Frankl observed in ‘Man’s Search for Meaning’ (1946), even in hardship, the awareness of what matters most provides a sense of purpose and vitality. Through such awareness, we embody what it truly means to be alive.