When we are alone on a starlit night, when by chance we see the migrating birds in autumn descending on a grove of junipers to rest and eat; when we see children in a moment when they are really children, when we know love in our own hearts; or when, like the Japanese poet, Basho, we hear an old frog land in a quiet pond with a solitary splash – at such times the awakening, the turning inside out of all values, the “newness,” the emptiness and the purity of vision that make themselves evident, all these provide a glimpse of the cosmic dance.
Thomas Merton
And today is National Coffee Day.
4 Comments
geri oster
This is an amazing photograph, Monte! And the Thomas Merton quote is such an encouragement to me as I am practicing the Art of Gazing. I have spent much time the past few days just “gazing” at this enchanting scene. Thank you for this gift of life. Blessings, g.
Monte Stevens
Thank you, my friend. I too have been enjoying the Art of Gazing. I am presently reading the book of a collection of Thomas Merton writings from his journals about what he sees in nature. The book is titled When the Trees Say Nothing. May you have a wonderful day, Geri!
Mark
I love the color contrast between the frog and lilypad here!
Monte Stevens
Without the lilypad you would almost miss the frog.