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Glimpses of Wonder™: Reflections on Jehovah’s Remarkable Design

An invitation to slow down, look closer, and be amazed.

 

Everywhere we turn, Jehovah’s handiwork speaks—sometimes in whispers, sometimes in wide-eyed wonder. Glimpses of Wonder™ takes you on a journey through the marvels of creation: from the clever mechanics of a horse’s leg to the glow of deep-sea creatures, from the balance of brain chemistry to the elegance of a falling leaf.

 

Some entries will make you laugh. Some will make you pause. But all of them aim for the same thing: to stir up awe—and give credit where it’s due.

 

Blending science, storytelling, and a deep love for the Creator, this series doesn’t just celebrate the natural world. It invites you to see what’s always been there… a little differently.

Entries in this blog

Creation

The Changing Eyes of Reindeer

Reindeer Eyes Change with the Season Reindeer live in the Arctic, where summers are bright and winters are very dark. To help them see in these different light conditions, reindeer eyes change color. In the summer, their eyes are golden-yellow, and in the winter, they turn deep blue. This change helps them see better during the long, dark Arctic winters.    The Role of the Tapetum Lucidum This color change happens in a part of the eye called the tapetum lucidum, a reflective
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Creation

Do Spiders Dream?

In 2022, researchers uncovered evidence suggesting that spiders, specifically jumping spiders (Salticidae), might experience sleep states akin to REM (rapid eye movement) sleep in humans. This discovery has intrigued scientists and the public alike, offering new insights into the complex behaviors of these remarkable arachnids.   The 2022 Study: Observing Spider Sleep Juvenile jumping spiders, with their semi-transparent exoskeletons, provided researchers a unique opportunity to o
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Breaking the Speed Barrier: The High-Flying Brazilian Free-Tailed Bat

When you think of fast-flying creatures, birds like falcons or swifts may come to mind. However, in terms of level flight, some bats, particularly the Brazilian free-tailed bat (Tadarida brasiliensis), take speed to an entirely new level. These incredible mammals can reach speeds of up to 99.5 miles per hour (160 kilometers per hour) in horizontal flight, surpassing the fastest birds in this category. While birds like the peregrine falcon hold the overall speed record during dives, the Brazilian
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Trailblazers of the Forest: The Remarkable Navigation of Wood Mice

In the world of small mammals, few creatures are as resourceful as the wood mouse (Apodemus sylvaticus, pronounced A-po-DEE-mus sil-VAT-i-cus). Found across Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia, this unassuming rodent has captivated researchers with its remarkable ability to navigate complex terrains. What sets the wood mouse apart from almost every other mammal—except humans—is its unique use of “way-marking” to avoid getting lost.   The Mystery of Way-Marking Wood mice are no
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Creation

Exotic Joy: The Remarkable Design of Leichhardt’s Grasshoppers — a Glimpse of Wonder entry™ —

Deep in Australia’s tropical savannas, a small but vibrant creature brings joy to observers while showcasing one of creation’s most harmonious partnerships. The Leichhardt’s grasshopper (Petasida ephippigera, pronounced Pet-ah-SEE-duh eh-FIP-ih-jeer-ah) spends its entire life on a specific group of plants: shrubs from the Pityrodia genus. This extraordinary relationship highlights the wisdom and care evident in Jehovah’s design of creation.   A Lifelong Home Leichhardt’s grasshopp
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Creation

The King of Bugs: Meet the Man-Faced Shield Bug — a Glimpse of Wonder entry™ —

While commonly referred to in some circles as the “Elvis Presley shield bug,” the actual species in question is Catacanthus incarnatus (Kat-uh-KAN-thus in-kar-NAH-tus), also known as the man-faced stink bug. This rare giant shield bug has captured imaginations with its unique markings that resemble a human face. For some observers, these markings evoke the eyes, nose, and iconic hairstyle of Elvis Presley, while others see something completely different. Regardless of interpretation, this insect
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Creation

Why Helicopters Help Save Cherries: The Delicate Art of Cherry Farming — a Glimpse of Wonder entry™ —

Cherry farming is as much a science as it is an art. One of the most striking examples of this is the use of helicopters to blow rain off ripened cherries. These powerful machines fly just above the treetops, producing a downwash of air and turbulence that blows rainwater off the leaves and fruit. Without this intervention, rainwater can seep into the cherries’ thin skin, causing them to swell, crack, and become unsellable. While the process may take some time depending on orchard size and condi
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Creation

Why 90% of Termites Are Essential for Life

When most people think of termites, they picture chewed-up wooden beams, collapsing houses, and costly repairs. But termites are so much more than just destructive pests. In fact, only about 10% of the world’s termite species cause the damage we dislike, while the other 90% are essential for ecosystems to thrive. Let’s dig deeper into the surprising and essential roles termites play in supporting life on Earth.   The 10% We Fear It’s no surprise that termites have a bad reputation
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Creation

The Mighty Big Toe: A Small but Strong Foundation

Your feet are incredible engineering feats, designed to support your body as you walk, run, or stand. Among all the parts of your foot, your big toe plays a starring role. Did you know that when walking normally, your big toe carries about 40% of your body weight? Let’s explore why this seemingly small part of your anatomy is so essential to everyday movement.   The Role of the Big Toe in Walking Walking might seem effortless, but it’s a complex process requiring precise coordinat
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Creation

Why Cutting Onions Makes You Cry: The Science Behind the Tears

Onions are a staple in kitchens worldwide, but they have a unique ability to bring tears to your eyes. Have you ever wondered why? The answer lies in a fascinating chemical reaction that occurs when you slice into this common vegetable.   The Culprit: Sulfur Compounds When you cut into an onion, you break open its cells, releasing an enzyme called alliinase. This enzyme reacts with sulfur-containing compounds in the onion, producing a gas called syn-Propanethial-S-oxide. This gas
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The Mysterious Nightjar: Nature’s Nocturnal Navigator

As twilight descends and the world grows quiet, the nightjar emerges. Shrouded in mystery and often unseen, this remarkable bird occupies a unique niche in the natural world. Its cryptic plumage, nocturnal habits, and mesmerizing calls make it a true wonder of Jehovah’s creation.   A Master of Disguise The nightjar’s appearance is a testament to the ingenuity of camouflage. With mottled plumage in shades of brown, gray, and black, it blends seamlessly into its surroundings, often
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Creation

Salar de Uyuni: Bolivia’s Dazzling Salt Mirror

Tucked away in the remote highlands of Bolivia lies a breathtaking natural wonder: Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat. This remarkable expanse, covering over 10,582 square kilometers (4,086 square miles), is a testament to the creativity and majesty of Jehovah’s creation. Its unique beauty and fascinating characteristics draw visitors and researchers from around the globe.   A Landscape Like No Other   Salar de Uyuni, located in southwest Bolivia, resembles a vast,
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Creation

A Symphony of Survival in the Forest

Deep within the forest, an awe-inspiring drama unfolds. The goshawk, a swift and masterful hunter, moves with extraordinary precision as it navigates the maze of trees, chasing its next meal. Meanwhile, the chickadee, a tiny bird with a powerful call, sounds an urgent warning that ripples through the forest. Squirrels freeze, birds retreat, and even mammals pause in response to this alarm. Incredibly, this alarm system doesn’t just stop with one bird; it spreads across the forest as other birds
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Creation

Pelicans: Graceful Gliders of Jehovah’s Creation

Picture a group of pelicans soaring just above the water, their expansive wings barely disturbing the surface as they glide effortlessly. Pelicans have a remarkable ability to ride thermals and make use of natural air currents, a skill that showcases Jehovah’s thoughtful design of these magnificent birds.   How Do Pelicans Glide on Thermals? Thermals are rising columns of warm air created when the sun heats the ground or water. Pelicans use these invisible updrafts to gain altitud
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Goats and Their Accents: A Vocal Wonder of the Animal Kingdom

Have you ever thought about how goats communicate? Remarkably, goats not only have accents, but their accents can change depending on the social group they’re in. This unique ability showcases how even these seemingly simple creatures reflect Jehovah’s incredible design.   Goats use vocalizations called bleats to communicate, and their “accent” depends on their environment and social connections. Research has shown that young goats, or kids, develop their initial bleat patterns from th
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Creation

Bioluminescent Bays: A Stunning Display of Light

Imagine floating through water that glows with an amazing blue-green light, as if the stars have fallen to Earth and are dancing around you. This awe-inspiring phenomenon occurs in bioluminescent bays, where microscopic organisms called dinoflagellates emit light when disturbed. It’s a breathtaking wonder that showcases the creativity and beauty of Jehovah’s creation.   What Are Bioluminescent Bays?   Bioluminescent bays, often referred to as “bio bays,” are unique coastal ec
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Creation

Watermeal: The Tiny Wonder of the Plant Kingdom —a Glimpse of Wonder entry™—

Among the vast variety of plants that adorn our planet, there is one that stands out not for its grandeur, but for its incredible smallness. Meet watermeal (Wolffia), the smallest flowering plant on Earth. At just barely larger than a grain of sand, this unassuming marvel floats quietly on the surface of ponds and lakes, yet plays an essential role in the ecosystems it inhabits.   What is Watermeal?   Watermeal, or Wolffia, belongs to the same family as duckweed (Lemna)—both
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The Humble Dandelion: A Surprising Superfood and Medicinal Wonder —a Glimpse of Wonder entry™—

When most people see dandelions, they think of pesky weeds invading their lawns. But did you know that this common plant is not only non-poisonous but also packed with nutritional benefits and medicinal properties? In fact, dandelions have been valued for centuries as both a food source and a remedy for various ailments, and their usefulness continues today in modern herbal medicine.   True or False: Are Dandelions Poisonous to Humans?   False! Dandelions (Taraxacum officinal
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Ingenious Gardeners: The Self-Planting Ability of Certain Bulbs —a Glimpse of Wonder entry™—

Imagine planting a bulb too close to the surface of the soil, only to find it thriving perfectly a season later, nestled deeper in the earth. How did it get there? Believe it or not, certain plant bulbs have a remarkable ability to pull themselves deeper into the ground if they are planted too shallow. Tulips are one of the most famous examples of this natural wonder.   True: Some Bulbs Can Bury Themselves Deeper   Tulip bulbs, along with a few other species, possess an incre
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Volcanic Eruptions and the Secrets in Tree Rings — a Glimpse of Wonder entry™ —

The towering spectacle of a volcanic eruption has far-reaching impacts, not just on landscapes and climates but also on the silent witnesses of history—trees. Scientists have uncovered a remarkable way to date volcanic eruptions by studying the rings of trees, revealing the subtle yet powerful effects these natural events leave behind.   How Do Volcanic Eruptions Affect Tree Rings?   When a volcano erupts, the immense release of ash, dust, and sulfur-rich aerosols into the at
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The Unique Gait of Giraffes, Camels, and Cats — a Glimpse of Wonder entry™ —

When we think of animal locomotion, most of us picture a straightforward walk or trot, with alternating legs moving forward. But giraffes, camels, and cats commonly exhibit a remarkable and rare gait called pacing, where they move both legs on one side of their body simultaneously, followed by both legs on the other side. This unusual stride sets them apart from many other animals and reveals fascinating details about their design and purpose. While giraffes, camels, and cats are notable example
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The Rooster’s Crow: As Loud as a Jet Engine — a Glimpse of Wonder entry™ —

For many, the sound of a rooster crowing at dawn evokes images of quiet rural mornings. But did you know that a rooster’s crow can exceed 100 decibels, with some measurements reaching as high as 140 decibels? That’s comparable to the noise of a rock concert or even a jet engine during takeoff! This startling fact raises questions about how such a small animal can produce such a powerful sound and why it doesn’t harm the rooster itself. Let’s explore the intricacies of this fascinating ability, i
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How Humidity Affects Our Perception of Temperature — a Glimpse of Wonder entry™ —

Have you ever noticed how dry winter air feels colder, even when the thermostat says the temperature hasn’t dropped? Or how, in the height of summer, the humidity in the air can feel stifling, as though you’re walking through water? These sensations are deeply tied to how humidity interacts with our body’s natural ability to regulate temperature. Let’s explore the science behind these effects, the ideal conditions for comfort, and some surprising health considerations related to humidity.  
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The Incredible Jaw Power of Crocodiles —a Glimpse of Wonder entry™—

Crocodiles are among the most fascinating and powerful predators, equipped with an incredible bite force that reflects the intricate wisdom evident in their design. Their jaws, perfected for crushing and gripping, stand as a striking example of the awe-inspiring balance found in creation. In this edition of Glimpses of Wonder, we dive into the remarkable jaw strength of these ancient reptiles.   The Bite Force of Crocodiles   Crocodiles have some of the strongest bite forces
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The Incredible Jumping Flea: A Tiny Acrobat —a Glimpse of Wonder entry™—

When we think of fleas, our first reaction might be annoyance, but these tiny insects are marvels of precise engineering. The average flea can jump 8 inches (20 centimeters), which may not sound impressive—until you consider their size. That leap is approximately 200 times the length of a flea’s body, making them one of the most powerful jumpers in the animal kingdom relative to their size.   To put it into perspective, imagine a human-sized flea. If a person could jump 200 times their
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