Are You Watching Through A Camera Lens?

A couple weeks ago we watched our daughter dance her last recital as a high school student. It was a wonderful afternoon. As I watched her, I remembered her first recital, dressed in her little yellow and black bumble bee looking costume then I looked up and a beautiful young lady appeared before my eyes. I started to take pictures (as I always do) but found myself so caught up in watching her dance during the recital, I only took a few pictures. 

At first I was disappointed with myself but then I realized something, I watched and enjoyed most of her memorable moments from behind a camera lens. There are some things we can't capture on film, the vibrance of a sunset for example is never as breathtaking on film or in paint as it is when you see it first hand. Rather than focus on my lack of pictures I decided to celebrate putting my camera down for the first time.

Her movement and growth as a dancer was amazing. No matter how many pics I took, not a one could replace the joy and love I feel in my heart when I think about watching her beautiful solo to express how she sees herself in the world and in the future. It was powerful and awe-inspiring. I'm thankful to have oodles and oodles of pictures of our girl growing up yet when I think about setting my camera down for a time, I'm glad I did. Some things can't be caught on film, God only intended them to be seen and felt with our heart when we are totally focused. Have you set your camera down lately? What is your favorite moment captured & why?