Vol. 32: I Observe

Ashley and I walked around Moncus Park last weekend to soak up the cold front, as that’ll probably be the last time we have 70 degree weather until November (thanks, Louisiana!).

As we walked, I brought up a video I recently saw of a mid-20's guy saying his friend group uses the term “going 90s” to refer to social outings or activities where they leave their phones behind.

It's that simple. “Going 90s” means no cellphone - living like you’re in the 1990s. (For those reading this above 40ish years old: yes, this is very difficult for Gen Z and Millennials. I could divulge into discussing technological attachment and growing up with technology vs not, but that’s another newsletter.)

I mentioned how that video was an additional push for me to put more space between me and my phone. To be more present. More observant.

Then an idea came to mind.

Let’s play a game!

“I Observe”

It’s pretty simple: you just state what you observe in the moment.

Ashley: I observe the ripples from the wind in the pond.

Grayson: I observe the birds chasing each other.

Ashley: I observe friends, or friendships being made.

Grayson: I observe birdsong.

Ashley: I observe a sweet! (her affectionate term for dog)

Grayson: I observe the crunching of gravel under our feet.

It’s essentially “I Spy,” but more intentional. That keyword “observe” makes you more thoughtful. More present. More, shall I say… observant.

Words matter.

If someone asks you “Why is it important that you are here?” instead of “Why are you here?” your answer to the first will instinctively be more thoughtful and intentional than your answer to the second.
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Use that concept when aiming to be more present. To step away. To observe.

Say “I observe” then follow that up with whatever you notice in the moment. Sight, taste, smell, sound, touch, or thought.

You’ll notice more of the life that’s already happening around you.

It also helps to go 90s every now and then.

Maybe it is that dang phone after all.

See you next Thursday, Steppers.

We will succeed,

Grayson

​graysonstepanek.com​

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Song of the Week:

Drops of Jupiter (Tell Me) Train PREVIEW   ​

This was one of the many songs I sang during karaoke last week while at SLP, and man, there are very few songs that evoke the nostalgia and 2000's aura that this one does. This song captured some crucial essence of life itself. It's truly one of those songs that just needed to exist. Shoutout Train. And if you've never sang this song during karaoke with friends you just made that same week, do it. You won't regret it.