Irrationally Wonderful

Accept meaningless joy

Ashley Sudeta

Sometime over the summer, I was asked why I love art museums. I didn’t understand the question.

I love art museums, because when I enter them—or even think about them—I am filled with the feeling of loving art museums! When I’m in an art museum, I want to jump up and down and spin around and wave my arms. Nothing in the world can stop me from smiling while I move from piece to piece, hands clasped behind my back. I refuse to believe there is a better use of an afternoon than gazing up at paintings and sculptures and artifacts, and just allowing myself to feel whatever emotions well up within my chest. There are a million different words to describe those emotions, but when I tell you about them, I will refuse to use any word other than “love.”

If you’re still waiting for a real explanation, let me ask, why is it necessary to know the reasons behind joy? I won’t deny the importance of analyzing why we like or dislike certain things. We can learn a lot from reflecting on our subconscious thoughts and biases, and the growth we experience through this process is invaluable. However, there is a point where rationality should be set aside.

Overthinking can easily spoil feelings of wonder and excitement. Sticking with the art museum example, when I think too closely about why I love them, I feel silly. I find myself editing my feelings, making them sophisticated. I force myself to comment on a vase’s ability to branch through time, instead of admitting it’s the shade of blue that puts tears in my eyes.

Wonder and joy should not be embarrassing—they’re necessary for appreciating life! Let yourself cry when your eyes prickle, and laugh when your heart requires it. You were made to love with a fierceness and depth beyond reason.