Week #16

Dancing Trees

"Alterness is the hidden discipline of familiarity."

David Whyte

I listened to another wonderful interview from Krista Tippett. This time she interviewed David Whyte, a poet and philosopher, who looks at how language shapes both our work world and our everyday world. I found that his thoughts regarding the discipline of alertness relates directly to the creative discipline that I embrace in my photography - seeing the world with "beginner's eyes". I urge you to take the time to listen to his profound words and I know that your heart and soul will be fuller for the time spent.

Week #5

Foggy Morning In The Backyard

Last week I listened to Krista Tippett interview Stephen Batchelor regarding his work with Secular Buddhism. If you aren't familiar with Krista and her podcasts, I recommend that you check them out at On Being. During the course of the interview, Stephen Batchelor shared that one of the most profound practices he took away from the years he spent in Zen monasteries was this Tibetan death reflection.

Death is certain.

The time of death is uncertain.

What shall I do?

 When I first heard him say these words I thought to myself what a  morbid statement but in fact, over the past week, it has become just the opposite. Like a gentle prayer the words have drifted in and out of my thoughts. They've become a reminder that my time on this earth is limited. They have acted as a focal point, a check-in, to make sure that my actions align with what is most important to me. They have released a renewed commitment to be fully present in my daily interactions with my family, my co-workers, and strangers I pass on the street. Life in it's whole is more vibrant and alive. So I ask you - what shall you do?

Peace