clouds,  landscape,  mountains,  quotes,  storm clouds

…on the threshold of brilliance

March 24, 2023
Storm Clouds along the Front Range

We have all heard the forlorn refrain “Well, it seemed like a good idea at the time!” This phrase has come to stand for the rueful reflection of an idiot, a sign of stupidity, but in fact we should appreciate it as a pillar of wisdom. Any being, any agent, who can truly say, “Well, it seemed like a good idea at the time!” is standing on the threshold of brilliance.

Daniel Dennett

The skies have been filled with clouds most of the day, beautiful colors, shapes, shades, patterns and textures. With all that beauty I made the decision to chase clouds this afternoon and evening. Some clouds had rain within them while those over the mountains had some snow in them. The forecast is to see snow develop in the mountains and along the Front Range about midnight and continue until early morning. It’s a pattern we could see the next couple of days.

Not sure about you but early in my youth I found myself saying, “Well, it seemed like a good idea at the time!” Maturity and the awareness to pause before making decisions, taking more thoughtful actions than reactions, has reduced the times I needed to say that. Please notice I said reduced! So, if we go with Dennetts quote then he’s suggesting I’m on the threshold of brilliance, even today. Hoping you have a wonderful weekend!

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

4 Comments

  • Faye White

    March 25, 2023 at 6:10 am

    Fascinating cloud formation! I’ve been known to utter “I bet that looked good on paper” when I hear/read of a major blunder, usually committed by a corporation. lol

    It was in the 80s here yesterday – too warm. Spring has yet to settle into its ‘normal’ rhythm.

  • Tom Dills

    March 25, 2023 at 10:37 am

    I agree with Faye – that looks like a tornado cloud in the making.

    My variation on the “seemed like a good idea” theme is that something seems good in theory but doesn’t come out that way in reality. Or, “that wasn’t exactly what I had in mind!”

    I think the idea of a ‘pause’ is one that comes from maturity (and experience). Just hang on a minute before you click “send” or “buy now.” Brilliance indeed!