S: Scintilla

As part of an A–Z series called "The Vocabulary of Life," this article explores the word "scintilla," which refers to a tiny, brilliant spark or a small trace of an emotion. Through a personal anecdote about her son mesmerized by light on a pond, the author illustrates how life is composed of these fleeting, miniature moments of beauty. She ultimately encourages readers to notice these small "scintillas" to find greater wonder and luminosity in everyday life.