Gandhi would be Encouraged

Mahatma Gandhi is remembered and often quoted for saying "the greatness of a nation and it's moral progress can by judged by the way it's animals are treated".

This beautiful mare is enjoying a loving caress knowing she is safe and her future is secure now. With decades of carefully manipulated breeding behind her she was expected to run like the wildfires glinting in her fiery coat - and make a lot of money for someone. Instead she found her way to a feedlot, just another unwanted and frightened soul with a fast approaching expiry date.

Gandhi would be encouraged to know that this nation is morally progressing. Gigondas, and several of her companions are now living in stress free luxury. They were rescued by folk who care about the way this country's animals are treated.

The Bee Tree

The graceful remains of what was once a beautiful strong oak tree commands it's own space in the lush vegetation around it. Many may wonder what use is it now? Surely it's dangerous and could fall at a moments notice so why doesn't someone just cut it down?

Ah, but Mother Nature doesn't mind that it is old and bare. While that oak tree may not produce acorns any more it is still a valuable member of the forest as it provides a safe and spacious home for a large colony of bees.

Isn't it interesting that in nature forms change constantly but nothing is ever discarded as useless. I think, too often, we forget we are also part of nature and that the same rules apply to us. We value youth, health and vitality in this society, but some of us forget there has to be balance. For all this doing, there must be 'beeing'. Nature doesn't value one as being more important than the other.

The old declining oak tree hosting vigorous and industrious bees, perfect harmony.

Ducks in a Row?

The expression 'having to get my ducks in a row' means attempting to get control of various circumstances and situations in order for a planned action to be successful. Never an easy thing to do.

I have found when I try to control a situation too rigidly, I'm cutting myself off from the creative flow and can be setting myself up for failure. At the very least an action is postponed. I am learning that if I can get most of the ingredients in position then forge ahead allowing myself to be in the moment, then very often those last couple of ducks will find their place. Usually it's not where I was trying to force them to fit, either, but where they are most beneficial to a successful outcome. Or not. It is then that I find I really didn't need them anyway.

Life has a miraculous way of sorting itself out if we just allow it to.

Keeping in Touch

Our lives are becoming more hectic and although there is a huge push afoot to simplify, it is easier said than done. The internet is a powerful tool for sending a message to one person, or to the masses, instantaneously. Sending texts or emails to the latest personal communication gadget has become the accepted way to dialogue with one another. Just as fast as the message is sent, it is usually deleted. It disappears back into the ether without further thought.

Every once in a while I like to sit down with a cup of coffee and take the time write a long, thoughtful letter to a friend, or perhaps a relative. I smile when I imagine them dragging that endless pile of fliers and bills out of their mailbox and finding my letter buried amongst them. An invitation to find a moment to relax and maybe even think about others who would appreciate being remembered the old fashioned way. And do you know what? That letter is probably going to be around and revisited for quite a while.

The Lonesome Gods

The Lonesome Gods is the title of one of the prolific western writer, Louis L'Amour's last books. In it L'Amour comments that in days gone by the Ancient Ones who walked this land before us, worshiped their Gods, the land and nature. They created what we know as petroglyphs. We no longer fully understand the symbolism of each of these mysterious drawings. Many of us have moved far from being in touch with our sacred earth. The Gods are awaiting our return. We need not be lonesome anymore.

Remembering Our Heroes

On Memorial Day the thoughtful among us honor those American soldiers who have lost their lives in service. Young men and women who believed in their cause strongly enough to die for it.

There have been other heroes in our lives who may not have died on the battlefield but deserved to be remembered more the once a year none the less. Not necessarily to mourn their dying but to remember their living! People of courage and character who by their examples have offered us ways of living lives that are honorable and uplifting.

Perhaps we could even learn from them and honor them while they are still alive?

A Tribute and a Dedication

Occasionally, or perhaps often, we cross paths with someone who inspires and encourages us. One who sees in us what we can't see for ourselves.

I dedicate this blog to my special friend who died a year ago today. A generous and patient teacher, a beautiful spirit and with a talent so rare and pure the Universe could only share you with us for a little while. You are my inspiration. You gave me my wings but couldn't be around to see me fly.

I miss you, Ramon, and I salute you with every click of my shutter.