Self-portraits,  sunsets

The Solution Is

Sunset on the Cache la Poudre River

“The solution of the problem of life is life itself. Life is not attained by reason and analysis but first of all by living.” Thomas Merton

Over the past few years my idea of “living life” has changed. I have been working at spending more time in nature, respecting nature and all life forms, spending time with family and friends, laughing at myself and others, taking more risks, walking my own paths, worrying less, learning to accept others views, traveling, photography, maintaining my health, being grateful and, of course, watching sunsets.

Retired. Having fun with photography. Journal daily. Meditate daily. Learning haiku/poetry. Have a love for fountain pens.

14 Comments

    • Monte Stevens

      Notice I said I’m working at these and truly fall short more than I want to admit. They are goals which indicate a work in process. Thanks, my friend and enjoy your Friday as well as your weekend!!!

  • ken bello

    This sounds like a wonderful personal philosophy. i wish i could say the same for myself but the older I get the less tolerant of others stupidity I become. need to work on that.

    • Monte Stevens

      The first step is acknowledging those traits within us, which you already have. Then we work on ourselves. I think when we start that process those around us will change. Thanks!

  • Mark

    Seems like a fine path to follow Monte. I doubt all of them can be incorporated to anyone’s content 100%, but as you say, the key part is acknowledgement and to be working towards something. I admire that – I try at some of those items, but am not very successful on some.

    • Monte Stevens

      I also admire anyone who is attempting to even acknowledge there are these things we can embrace. I find it sad when there are those who experience life in a cubicle or are tied to their phones. I’m thankful you admit to trying!

  • Earl

    A fine way to live I think, Monte! The true value of things becomes more apparent as we age, don’t they. Nice self-capture as well!

    • Monte Stevens

      I knew you would be able to relate. For sure the aging process has influenced much of how I see the world today but it has been the experiences, painful and joyful, that has altered the core of who I am. Have a good weekend, my friend!

  • Ann Courtney

    I like your idea of living a lot. We all spend so much of our lives working, raising children, rushing and fretting that when we finally have the chance to slow down we sometimes have forgotten how so it does take a deal of work. Keep at it 😉

    • Monte Stevens

      Thanks, Ann. I also think there is an awareness of how short life really is. There are some things we need to do and some we don’t. Hope you are enjoying your weekend.