“To be aware that you are still alive, that you are walking on this beautiful planet—that is a form of enlightenment.”
Thich Nhat Hanh
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In the Alley
“Meditation is offering your genuine presence to yourself in every moment.” Thich Nhat Hanh
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Shadows in the Window
“Instead of hating the people you think are war-makers, hate the appetites and disorder in your own soul, which are the causes of war. If you love peace, then hate injustice, hate tyranny, hate greed – but hate these things in yourself, not in another.” Thomas Merton
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Unit 52
There are periods when I have no interest in picking up my camera. That has been prominent over the past 12 months. Yet, a camera body and a lens are always with me. It’s important to stay present to the world around me throughout the day or the scenes, events and images given will be missed. And, just as important is the need to be ready for these images as they present themselves. I will be more apt to press the shutter button if the camera is in my hand, around my neck or over my shoulder than if it’s in my camera bag. The above image is an example. As I walked out my front door I noticed the light and shadows cast across the door of Kristin’s condo. If the camera were in my bag I may not have this image. We must be ready. 🙂
Here is short list of why I carry my camera. I apologize if these are repeats from previous posts.
- I never know when a scene will appear. Since life is constant change the light and shadows are constantly changing. Subjects and situations are constantly changing as life moves forward. We must be present and aware.
- The camera has become another appendage to my body. I feel naked without a camera. I think I’d rather leave home without my pants. 🙂
- I enjoy the sound of the shutter button. The shutter has a distinct sound comforting to my inner source.
- It’s a conversation starter. People will start conversations when they see my camera. “Hey, that’s a nice camera ya got there.” Or, “Is that one of those old style cameras.”
- Helps me to see the world with new eyes. I’m much more apt to notice shapes, colors, patterns, interesting people. I will quickly compose scenes when they appear..
- There is also the camera which is my memory. It is always storing images, which I can enjoy throughout my life.
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Simple and Common
This past weekend I spent in Colorado Springs at a conference. During a break I walked around the hotel hoping something would catch me eye. This is what I was given, simple and common.
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Church at Dusk
“We need to risk, we need to dare to risk and fail greatly because that’s the only way we grow.” Emilio Estevez
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Places for Study
Lory Student Center provides a place to eat, lounge, 3 coffee shops, book store and places to study for the students. This is one of those small alcoves with chairs and couches for study time. I am standing at directly behind a couch with one student stretched out and sleeping. 🙂