“…the greatest reward for a creative life is not in what you create, but in how you live. It is in how you train yourself to view and respond to the world and internalize the many experiences and meanings and mysteries that come your way. It is about finding peace and satisfaction in a world rife with cynicism, violence, competition and greed.”
Guy Tal
I posted the above quote back on June 11, 2012, about 14 years ago. It spoke to me then and it speaks to me now in my photography, blogging and how I try to live my life. Pursuing a creative path is helping me find peace and satisfaction in a world that is rife with cynicism, violence, competition and greed. One of the things I do to live my life and find peace is spend time in nature. So, I spent some time this afternoon at Pineridge Natural Area. They made some changes on me by removing the bench up near the parking lot and putting in another one right next to the rocks I enjoy sitting on. It’s probably only three feet away from those rocks. It is a big, solid bench and just as hard as the rocks. But it has a back on it. It actually is a much more scenic view than where the previous bench was. That’s one of the reasons I liked sitting on those rocks. I approve of the change. You don’t suppose they put in that bench just for me???
Anway my sister, Sheree, and I are flying down to Phoenix in the morning to spend a couple days with my sister Marcee and brother-in-law, John. Then we will rent a car and drive back with some of mom and dad’s artwork. So I probably won’t be posting much the rest of the month. Hold down the Fort while I’m gone! I better finish packing.
11 Comments
Tom Dills
That bench definitely looks like an upgrade! And if the view is better then that is a bonus. I’m sure they had people like you in mind, if not you specifically. 😉
The trip and drive should be a pleasant and rewarding one for you and your siblings. Hopefully you will return with some good memories and a few keepsakes from your parents’ art collection. Enjoy!
Monte Stevens
Thanks, Tom! I’m looking forward to it!
Duane Sawyer
Safe travels, my friend!
Monte Stevens
Thank you my friend. And may you guys travel safely.
Earl
Both a physical and emotional journey…may it treat you kindly, my friend.
Monte Stevens
Thank you, Earl. Looking at the weather app, it looks like they are going to be in a cold spell down there. Only have a high of 79 on Sunday.
Earl
I’d take that as good news! 😉
William Sortino
Great Shot……………
Monte Stevens
Thanks, Bill! My sister Sheree and I are in a hotel in Raton, NM for the night. We leave in the morning for home. It should be a short 4 hour drive home. It has been a good trip and good family time. Those times are growing fewer so they are precious to me. I hope all is well with you!
Mark
Looks like a pretty nice spot to sit and contemplate all of the complexities around us Monte. Maybe a portable cushion if I planned to stay a while. Glad Guy T is still sharing the wise thoughts even 14 years later. (geez time flies eh!) Hope your trip is enjoyable filled with more stories.
Monte Stevens
Thanks, Mark! My sister Sheree and I are in a hotel in Raton, NM for the night. We leave in the morning for home. It should be a short 4 hour drive home. It has been a good trip and good family time. Those times are growing fewer so they are precious to me. I am a fan of Guy Tals photography and writing. It’s hard to believe it’s been that long.