My online journal where I share my interests in photography, nature, coffee life, journaling, fountain pens, bicycling, spirituality and asking deep questions.
Let me keep my distance, always, from those
Mary Oliver, Evidence: Poems
who think they have the answers.
Let me keep company always with those who say
“Look!” and laugh in astonishment,
and bow their heads.
If I knew how to take a good photograph, I’d do it every time.
Robert Doisneau
We are about 20 degrees, warm for us. Clocks are moved ahead and I feel it. I took this image a couple weeks ago on a walk at Arapaho Bend Natural Area. Have a great Sunday.
Too many times discouragement has been the bonus for unrealistic expectations, not to mention self-pity or fatigue from my wanting to change the world by the weekend.
Daily Reflections, March 2
Last Monday was not a good emotional and mental day for me. I felt like running away from the chaotic state of this world and those creating it. Knowing there is no place called “away”, I drove to one of my natural areas to find some solace, some comforting and healing. They are my sanctuaries. The sun felt good as my body soaked it up. A cool breeze blew lightly in my face. After a few much needed deep breaths I knew I had my feet back on the ground and to move on with the day. Sometime later after talking with friends I realized my difficult feelings were the disappointments I have with the world. I desire all things to be in perfect harmony and without discord but that is not life. My unrealistic expectations brought on those discouragements. Setting realistic expectations and living in acceptance of what I cannot change and what I can change is something I’m slowly learning. Learning patience and acceptance.
Which of my photographs is my favorite? The one I’m going to take tomorrow.
Imogen Cunningham
If you look closely on the right side of the trees you will see the remnants of the Old Straus Cabin. The cabin is located within the Arapaho Bend Natural Area. This cabin is an example of the early log structures. George Strauss built the cabin in 1864 and farmed the land around it, growing vegetables and raising cattle. These trees and the cabin sit right along the banks of the Poudre River.
Cunningham’s attitude seems like a pretty good approach to improving our photography. Think I’ll give it a try. It was 2 degrees this morning when I left the condo. Now a blue sky and sunshine brightens the day but will see clouds move in later and snow beginning tonight and into tomorrow.
There was a lot of chatter going up there as these Canada Geese flew over me. Had to chuckle as I imagined what they are honking up about. Do you suppose they are just like we are when we get in our cars and head somewhere? Were some complaining the goose behind them was following too close? Were some wanting to fly faster or slower? Were some being backseat flyers? Were some wanting to land here or fly on farther? Were some trying to control the formation, shouting instructions to others because the formation is not what they wanted? Do I even want to know? Not really but I had fun with my imagination. Have a great week!
“I think the tragedy is that we have a Congress with a Senate that has a minority of misguided senators who will use the filibuster to keep the majority of people from even voting.”
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., 1963
Had a short night of sleep so I’m feeling tired and down. Not much ambition or drive. Decided to go out to the Arapaho Bend Natural Area. Found a bit of blue sky and clouds to lift me up. Glad I went when I did because it is now cloudy and overcast.
It is Martin Luther King, Jr Day and many people are posting his quotes. I’m one of them. But, fifty years ago he was not all that popular a man and even labeled a communist, a radical and even dangerous. Prophets who stand up to injustice are treated as such. Some pay with their lives. May we have more prophets like him. I’m not capable of expressing my feelings about the brokenness of this country, because sixty years after he made this statement we still have a Senate that does not represent the people. Sigh!
On a positive note, today is my dads 93rd birthday. You can look at that as 93 years or 33,945 days or… I am grateful he’s as healthy as he is. I’m not able to be with him but sent him a text message with a virtual cake. My sister and brother-in-law are taking him a real cake so all is good! Happy Birthday, Dad! I love you! ❤
“You are a light. You are the light. Never let anyone—any person or any force—dampen, dim or diminish your light. Study the path of others to make your way easier and more abundant. Lean toward the whispers of your own heart, discover the universal truth, and follow its dictates. […] Release the need to hate, to harbor division, and the enticement of revenge. Release all bitterness. Hold only love, only peace in your heart, knowing that the battle of good to overcome evil is already won. Choose confrontation wisely, but when it is your time don’t be afraid to stand up, speak up, and speak out against injustice. And if you follow your truth down the road to peace and the affirmation of love, if you shine like a beacon for all to see, then the poetry of all the great dreamers and philosophers is yours to manifest in a nation, a world community, and a Beloved Community that is finally at peace with itself.”
John Lewis