“There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.”  

― Albert Einstein

My husband and I recently took a short vacation together - it was much needed for him as he has been working hard and not getting a lot of down time.  I was looking forward to having some time with him and exploring a new area and seeing new sights.  Yes, I did take my camera equipment - the image above was taken during the trip - but to be honest, photography was not my goal for this trip, special time with my husband was.

When I am out shooting professionally, my mindset is "focused" differently then when I am being a traveler, or spending time with family and friends.  When I am shooting, I am working on a task, on finding the right elements or light or subject, and that takes up my thought process fully.  I must be fully present in that moment in order to "see" what I want to capture.  

When I have special time with others, especially those I love and cherish, I must be just as completely present with them to live those miracle moments together.  Like my photographer self, I only get one chance to catch those extraordinary times, and when the moments are gone, they're gone and cannot be reclaimed.  Life and photography share that so well!

Our lives and our time with those we love is not infinite.  Every moment is special and should be revered and remembered.  We should truly live as if today were our last day on earth; noticing each little thing, opening our hearts and our eyes to the beauty we have around us, giving our compassion and our love openly, cherishing and honoring those we love and each moment we have together.  

Our trip was wonderful and we made some great new memories together during it.  Yes, I did take a few pics, yet what I remember more was the time spent together.  Those moments are in my heart, and are more important than any photograph I might have taken.  I am warmed by the remembrance, and the love.  These are everyday miracles - and they are worth more than anything. These moments are treasures - hold them and cherish them, and remember to notice these moments - they happen every day!  Be present - live fully - embrace your life!  Let those special times in life take your breath away and you will be fully alive and filled with joy. The moments are truly everywhere if we simply open our eyes to see.

“Life is not measured by the breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.” 

― Hilary Cooper

Namaste,

Lesli

The purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off our souls. - Pablo Picasso

I recently heard a story about a principal of a troubled school on the East Coast who took the position in order to change the downward direction of the school.  He made some sweeping changes, including changing the makeup of the school personnel, and hours for classes.  He removed security guards and used the funds to hire art teachers.  Given the troubled history of the school, this was a bold move, yet the principal remained committed to the need for art and art teachers.  

The school has now become a successful model for others, and a standard bearer for the importance of inclusion of arts programs in curriculum.  I felt this was a great lesson to show why art is important as a springboard for learning and creativity development, and this principal was willing to take a huge leap of faith and commitment in order to turn his school around dramatically. His reward was seeing students who were learning more, succeeding more, and believing in themselves and their abilities.  Art played a major role in this rebirth.

Art is one of the first things most children learn in life - they draw or color, make paper figures or cutouts, sing and dance to their own tunes.  This is how personal expression comes into play, and we need to foster and encourage this throughout the education process through life, and in ourselves as well.

I was never any good at painting or sketching, but I did it as a child, and even later on (can you say "Paint by Numbers"?) I was happy doing creative things.  My attempts were crude and basic, but the spark was there.  It was not until I picked up a camera that I felt I had found my artistic voice.

Many people and many famous artists have similar stories about their humble art beginnings.  The thread that remains is the positive encouragement given them to work and learn and grow.  No matter if the medium is painting, writing, dance, music, photography, sculpture, or any other art form, encouragement to find your own voice is so important, as children and adults!  Call yourself an artist proudly, and surround yourself with others who share that passion and love - watch how they work and learn.  Even if you only do art for yourself, be proud of it and that you are finding your expression of life.

I have a great many people in my life who have encouraged and supported my work, and I would not be the person I am today without them.  My Mother and my wonderful husband top that list.  Mom, at the end of her life told me that there is no perfect time to wait for, and to go for it now.  My husband, Rich, each and every day shows me more love and positivity that I ever thought possible. I thank them every day for their love.

I am also lucky to have many friends with whom I share love for photography and nature - they are each and every one special and unique in their vision and work and personality.  They inspire me and I am proud to be their friend.  Their voice is in their work, and their art is incredible.  They open their hearts and art flows from it beautifully and soulfully.

The moral to this story?  Art is important and vital for us as humans.  It challenges us, it enriches us, it makes us think.  When a person engages in artwork, it connects into a part of our brains that fuels creative thinking and problem solving.  It makes us better at seeing and visualization and abstraction.  And, for many of us, it gives us a chance to go out and meet and work with like minded individuals who will amaze us through their own art.  Art opens us to greater vision and growth that can continue for years and years.

So pick up a pen or brush or camera.  Stop saying I can't!  Look for what moves you and then start there.  Let go - feel free - laugh - create - see - express, and repeat!  It's your vision and your expression - and that is something no one can have but you!  Celebrate that!  You are unique!

“No man has the right to dictate what other men should perceive, create or produce, but all should be encouraged to reveal themselves, their perceptions and emotions, and to build confidence in the creative spirit.” 

― Ansel Adams

Namaste,

Lesli

“The world is not respectable; it is mortal, tormented, confused, deluded forever; but it is shot through with beauty, with love, with glints of courage and laughter; and in these, the spirit blooms timidly, and struggles to the light amid the thorns."  -  George Santayana

We have once again been exposed to parts of the world that are indeed confused and mortal, causing suffering, pain and death.  It seems unthinkable that young men living in the US would come to this end, and we may find ourselves questioning and looking for reason.  We likely will find little that will give us answers or solace, and feel troubled and confused by these events.

It is especially at these times we should turn our gaze to those things that nurture our spirits, that lift us and those who are affected by tragedy to a more courageous and beautiful place.  Our spirits must flow to a loving and positive space, and show the way for others.  

We may become cynical and suspicious when bad events occur, yet if we widen our gaze and our viewpoint, we will always find the good - the good people, the courageous, the giving, the strong and incredible ones.  There were many of these in Boston - doctors and nurses who worked after running the marathon to tend the injured, bystanders who became rescuers and givers of solace and strength, responders who put aside fear and placed themselves in danger to help those who had fallen.  These are the stories worth telling and hearing; these are the spirits who soar and rise above the fray.  They are our lights in the darkness.

There will be many times in life where we are faced with adversity, challenge, fear and confusion.  How do we respond to these?   At these times I find the quotes of a great and wonderful man - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, - relevant and powerful reminders of how to live. He once said the ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.  His philosophy was that we must not let the darkness of hate blind us but rather bring forward the light of love to drive out the hate.  

Our spirits cannot soar and rise if hate contaminates our minds.  We must continually and repeatedly find and renew our courage and capacity to forgive.  We must look for the good in every moment, the flower amidst the thorns.  The world can heal only through love, forgiveness, compassion, and hope.  Hold these in your heart - show them to your fellow beings, and be a shining spirit for good.

We are shaped by our thoughts; we become what we think. When the mind is pure, joy follows like a shadow that never leaves. - Buddha

Namaste,

Lesli

Follow your bliss and the universe will open doors where there were only walls.

- Joseph Campbell

When I started to ponder about the blog for this week, I found this quote online, and felt this was a good starting point.  How do you follow your bliss?  Do you find it in your life daily?  What gives you joy - and do you celebrate that daily?

I believe that everyone  can find bliss in their daily life no matter if they are working in their most ideal job in the world, or one that you must do to pay the bills.  There is no magic formula other than looking for joy in everyday things, and everyday moments.  It can be by going out in nature and witnessing its beauty or having a hobby that takes you into those happy times and gives you pleasure and fulfillment.  You can even find it while you are doing your everyday job!  The secret is to seek joy and find bliss first within yourself.
 

My good friend Sally who is a superb photographer, is a great example of this.  Even when she is knee deep in the backbreaking drudgery of yard work, she finds time to get her camera and photograph the beautiful and interesting plants and flowers  - even the weeds she has to mow!  She takes time to notice and really SEE these things rather than just looking past them and lamenting about how much work she has to do to tend her garden.  This is the true definition of finding bliss!  And because she follows this, she takes the most amazing photographs!  And her garden is beautiful because she has done the hard work, even though there might have been many other things she would have preferred to do!  Double joy!

It's really a state of mind, to be honest.  You can be doing your chores and be miserable, or you can find something that helps you realize the chore completed will give you something good.  It's rather like cleaning out a closet - you don't really want to do it, but then you find it becomes freeing to get rid of those things that have been cluttering up your space for so long.  And if you donate your things, you pay the joy forward to someone else.  

Bliss can be found in so many things.  I spent part of a day hanging my photographs for a showing in a local healthcare facility that utilizes their public spaces as galleries for local artists.  They have transformed their environment from one that can be stressful and unhappy to one that highlights artwork to express peacefulness, harmony and expression.  They have done this through unwavering and continuing support of local art and artists, and encouraging those dealing with difficult health situations to express themselves through art, even if they have never done art before.  It is a tremendously healing environment where they have found a way to incorporate health and heart.   It's a wonderful and uplifting combination, and it benefits everyone who comes through their doors.  

Search for bliss within yourself and no matter where you are.  It's there - even though at times it may seem hard to find, if you look long enough, you will find it.  Follow it, and watch the universe unfold to you in so many beautiful ways.  It's a treasure waiting for us to find it, if only we open our hearts.  

“Joy is what happens to us when we allow ourselves to recognize how good things really are.” 

― Marianne Williamson

Namaste,

Lesli

To be grateful is to recognize the Love of God in everything He has given us - and He has given us everything. Every breath we draw is a gift of His love, every moment of existence is a grace, for it brings with it immense graces from Him. 

Gratitude therefore takes nothing for granted, is never unresponsive, is constantly awakening to new wonder and to praise of the goodness of God.  For the grateful person knows that God is good, not by hearsay but by experience.  And that is what makes all the difference.

― Thomas Merton

As Spring starts to make its presence known, I find myself considering how I can best express my gratitude for being on this Earth, surrounded by a loving family and wonderful friends, having my health, food on my table, being able to work at what I love and for which I have a passion.  I give thanks to our Creator for these and other things, and work to be the best I can be so as to honor that gift.

Often, as we fallible humans do, I know I do not give enough thanks and gratefulness - I'm busy, I have other things that take my concentration, or think that I just don't have the time.  Rather than looking at all I have with acceptance and gratitude, I put a narrow focus onto what I don't have, or what went wrong or badly.  This is personal challenge for me at times - my husband calls it "going to the dark side" - to go past the things that might be "wrong" and see just how good my life truly is.  

Spring, however,  propels me toward seeing all the things that surround me with a sense of wonder and happiness - the flowers in bloom, the trees in full bud, the songs of the birds and the frogs, the beautiful blue sky.  I feel renewed, just as the Earth becomes in its season.  I look at everything and consider that the Creator did not discriminate between anything created.  Everything is accepted, no matter if it is perfect or imperfect, slightly flawed or flawless, or just a little different.  Everything is filled with grace.

How wonderful if each of us on this Earth could live in this same way - filled with acceptance for all living things, no matter if they are "perfect" or not, or different.  How simple that sounds, yet we know for many, it is not that easy.  We even have difficulty giving that acceptance to ourselves, much less to others!  How much less stressful would it be for us when faced with a difficult situation or life challenge, to take a moment to be grateful, even when faced with an adversity.  Could it be that there is a lesson somewhere in that challenge, or a learning for us to take on?  

I know I have written about this subject, or similar subjects before.  Yet, when I look at the news, I see such evidence of lack of acceptance, and too much divisiveness, intolerance.   Our attitudes are of our own choice.  Choose your attitude - choose your gratitude!  When we live and express gratitude, it radically changes our view and redefines our life.  It flips a switch where we start to look for all the good things rather than the bad, where each moment of life is one which we see the positive and grace, for which we are thankful and acceptant and give gratitude.  

Wilferd Petersen said the following - "When we become more fully aware that our success is due in large measure to the loyalty, helpfulness and encouragement we received from others, our desire grows to pass on similar gifts to others.  Gratitude spurs us on to prove ourselves worth of what others have done for us.  The spirit of gratitude is a powerful energizer."

Let yourself become aware of how gratitude can transform you in a powerful and positive way.  The wise person does not grieve for what they do not have, but rather rejoices for the bounty that is truly theirs.  Accept and be thankful for the many gifts we have received and continue to receive and feel yourself filled with the spirit of gratitude.

Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life.  It turns what we have into enough, and more.  It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity.  It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.

– Melody Beattie

Namaste,

Lesli

There are no rules for good photographs, there are only good photographs.  - Ansel Adams

This week I read a post that was written trying to differentiate the difference between an amateur and a professional photographer. At first, I was interested, wondering what could really be so different, but as I read more, I found the article focused on things like whether you had a "regular" job in addition to doing photo work, which by their definition would make you an amateur, or if you derived a living solely from photography work, which they felt made you a professional.  I felt that it dismissed those who, by their rules, would be considered amateur, and was trying hard to justify a specific label.  I really could not understand why and for what reason they felt it necessary to put forth this arbitrary distinction.

In my estimation, the line between "amateur" and "professional" photographer today are blurred.  Nearly anyone can afford a good camera, and through study and work, become a great photographer.  Conversely, someone can own a lot of expensive equipment, call themselves "pro" and be of little or no substance or skill. The label of amateur or professional means little. Truly, what does it tell you?  If one has a passion for something, be it photography, painting, cooking, writing, or mathematics, having the strength and determination to follow that passion and work toward your goal is more important than a label.  Just as there are no rules for good photographs,  there are no good labels!  We need to resist using labels for people - labels only serve to limit us.  

Kierkegaard said:  "Once you label me, you negate me."  When we label someone, we put them into a box, and then close the box and our minds to what they truly are or might be.  When we label or judge, we lose a chance to connect with a fellow human being. Something that may seem benign can place severe limits on how we view someone.  We must go beyond our own ego and internal dialogue and let go of the limiting thoughts and the need to judge.  We were not born with a tag connected to us that says what we are, or whom we will become, or to what category we belong - why should we put these limits on ourselves and others?  Can we see beyond to the wonder that is every person?  We can free ourselves tremendously by letting go of the labels and names and by seeing more clearly through the eyes of compassion and with an open heart.

Each of us has purpose and desires to be the best we can be, to go beyond even what we think we can.  Let go of the labels that hold you  - and others - back.  Free yourself - you have unique values and talents!  Fulfillment doesn’t come from trying to become someone you’re not.  It comes from expressing, in each moment, the unique and genuine person you truly are.  What matters is expressing that uniqueness and making a positive contribution to your own life and to others.  

We are all unique, special and limitless.  We can accomplish so much and live fully and happily when we learn to cherish ourselves and others, deeply and wholly.  Look for that uniqueness in yourself and people around you.  Let go the titles, definitions, names, labels,  and step out of the limits and confines.  Be limitless and label-less.  It will free your spirit, propel you toward your purpose, and lighten your heart.  You will see yourself and others more clearly like the candle that lights a darkened room, showing you what you did not see before, and filling your spirit with gratitude and love.     

The achievement of your goal is assured the moment you commit yourself fully to it. - Mack Douglas

In my last blog, I wrote that it is important to look at how you should never give up on your dream.  This week, I believe is a bit of an extension on that thought - that you should fully commit to your goal - your dream, in order to achieve it.  

Quite often I spend time looking at other photographers works, either on websites, Flickr, or the many different number of pages and newsletters that are out there for photographers of all levels and styles.  I find it generally informative, and very interesting to see so many different styles and visions - some good, some well, interesting.   I find myself wondering how do they feel about their work? How and who have they studied?  What is their goal?

Goals are important for us as humans - we need ways to learn and grow and stretch ourselves.  Goals can help us with that. They can be small or large - like eating healthier, or spending more time with your family and friends, or giving more of your time to volunteering. But no matter what they are, if we want to achieve them, we MUST commit to them, and that takes conscious work and effort! Certainly it may seem easier to just glide along, doing only what is expected of you and nothing more - but how constricting, and how un-challenging is that?  Few real and important goals will have an easy road for us to take.  And big goals?  Well, those can be the most challenging and daunting of all!

We need that little push - that oomph to propel us forward into unchartered waters and unfamiliar territories in order to move forward in life.  We must have the mindset that we will take those scary tentative steps because they can bring us closer to our goal - if we do truly want it and believe in it. Consider most of todays successful professional athletes.  They spend a great deal of time practicing and training to succeed, and they also use visualization practices.  They SEE themselves doing or performing in their minds exactly as they want it to happen.  It sets that goal, and connects to it in their minds.  They look for the ways they to reach it, not obstacles that might be in the way. Sit down and write our a goal.  Don't think about it, just go for the one to which you feel most connected, and then start visualizing reaching that, positively and fully.  KNOW that you can do this and you can reach it.

I have several photographer friends and colleagues (and a wonderful husband) who exemplify this mindset, and they are my Zen masters (whether they know it or not!) to whom I look for inspiration and to power my goal-thinking.  I aspire to be someone of whom they would be proud, and that keeps me strong.  If you look, you likely know people like this as well. You cannot help but feel inspired when you are around them!  Hold them as your standard bearers, and emulate their strengths.  Know that you have everything you need to reach your own goal, and then fully and totally commit to reaching it.  

Reach high, for stars lie hidden in you. Dream deep, for every dream precedes the goal.

― Rabindranath Tagore

Namaste,

Lesli

Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes.  Do not resist them - that will only create sorrow.  Let reality be reality.  Allow things to flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.  - Lao Tzu

This year I have been working to grow in my photography work, and one of the ways I am "stretching" myself has been to apply to openings and calls for artists.  I know this is a very subjective process, and I hope to gain some insight into my work and how others view it.  This week I received notice from one of the calls I had really hoped would happen.  The notice was that I was not selected.

I was sad at first, then I started to reframe my thinking.  How many other artists had applied, and hoped to be selected, just as I had. Yet there could only be one selection.  And the one who was selected - how many times had they likely applied to calls, just as I did, before they were selected?

The truth is that there are different ways to view this moment.  One is to allow yourself to become discouraged, to doubt yourself and perhaps even consider giving up on your dream.  It's the easy way out.  You do not have to put yourself on the line for criticism and rejection. This is the greatest weakness - to give up.

The other way is to look at this and rejoice in the fact that someone - who could be struggling and working just as hard for that chance, that opportunity - received it!  How joyous!  How affirming!  This could be a new beginning, or just the boost needed to propel them forward into great things.  Choosing to look at the moment in this way is difficult for us as humans, especially as competitive beings.  Yet, it is so much more gentle and supportive - both of yourself and the other hard working artist who was selected.  We can hold joy in our hearts for them and for ourselves for taking the step.  These times allow us to evaluate ourselves and our work.  They urge us onward and upward.  They push us to ask - how can I be better, improve, learn and grow.  They serve to reinforce that our dream may need more work, and this is not the time to give up!

Giving up on your dream means you don't have to do any of these things or look for an opportunity for learning and growth. Failure or rejection can simply be dismissed and forgotten.  But if we do not give up on our dream, if we truly want to learn and grow we must understand it will not always be "our turn".  There are many others who are working and working, and might now be the beneficiary of pushing themselves beyond the rejections they have also experienced.  As artists, we should rejoice when a fellow artist has been recognized for their art and their work and for following their dream!  

Indeed, our lives are a series of changes.  We can choose to either embrace the changes, or rail against them, and take them personally in the "world is against me" mentality.  As the above saying notes, this will only bring us sorrow.  When we understand that life flows naturally, we understand that we are part of a collective of other beings who are also walking their paths, with goals that may be the same as ours.  Our moment may not yet be here.  These times are our opportunities to take a deeper look, to improve, to push further and become stronger.  Nothing breeds success like failure!  The desire to achieve, to improve, to go beyond your own imagined limits - these come from our rejections, our mistakes.  These are the times when there may be a significant learning waiting for us to see it.

I choose to open my heart to understanding and rejoicing that another artist has been selected, and they did not give up on their dream!  I can share in the joy they feel, and the happiness in their heart.  I can reaffirm I am not giving up on my dream, and that I will continue on.  I close with a quote from a person who knew and lived the meaning of try and try again.  It was said that he made perhaps thousands of attempts before achieving success in inventing the incandescent light.  So, be happy in your endeavors, and take joy in life, even when you don't get the first place ribbon - your path and your dream may just need a bit more time.

Our greatest weakness lies in giving up.  The certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time.  - Thomas Alva Edison

Namaste,

Lesli

The most  important point is to accept yourself and stand on your own two feet.

- Shunryu Suzuki-Roshi

This past week, I went through a bit of a personal crisis of sorts.  I felt as if I had lost my way and had forgotten my purpose. It was deeply troubling, and I let this plunge me into despair and sadness.  Searching into myself, I knew this was not who I truly am, so I pondered, prayed, meditated and thought through things for quite a bit of time before I felt myself coming back to "center".  When I honestly looked at this, if seemed the negative catalyst was the demon of self-doubt, and questioning of my true purpose in life.

Self - doubt is something which we all must face, and for those who are creative artists depending on the public to purchase (and thereby in our minds validate!) our works, self-doubt can sometimes hit you like an out of control freight train if we allow it to take over.  I believe that many probable great artists have given up their work and dreams because of self-doubt and fear.  If we give it rein, it can become a huge obstacle - a brick wall that we feel we cannot surmount.

We can, though, break through the wall - if WE accept ourselves!  We are the ones who need to learn to be compassionate and accepting first of ourselves for who we well and truly are before others will do so as well.  We cannot and should not define art as good or not good simply if it sells or not.  Truthfully, that is likely the worst way to define art!  If we find ourselves working only toward what is "popular" or current because we think this will make us marketable, we have gone off course and demeaned our personal artistic voice.  Our work must be grounded in our own vision and purpose.  If thoughts run to "will this sell?", our vision is no longer our own, and our art will suffer, as will the artist, for loss of a personal and unique purpose and viewpoint.

Purpose and vision - these are essential for artists and for every person in every walk of life.  Have you defined your purpose and clearly state your personal vision?  These are the very touchstones for defining our lives in a productive and personal way, showing us the path and our calling.  There are many great books, articles and blogs on how to define your personal purpose and vision, and how to get them into words.  Lance Secretan (http://www.secretan.com) is one of my personal favorites.  If you have not written your personal statement of purpose, consider taking the step.  Most artists or those applying to university may have a general statement of purpose - a personal one can help bring your ideals and goals into a deeper focus, and illuminate your life pathway by helping you define and determine what you value and how to live those values in your daily life.

Once your write your statement, print it and keep it in places you will see it - even on your smart phone!  As your life changes, you may revise it slightly, but it is likely that if you have truly and honestly searched for the core values and personal vision that drives you, only a minor change might be needed, if any at all as your life path changes and develops. And when you, as I did, hit those bumps along the way, reading your statement of purpose can help bring you back to knowing yourself, and that your path is the right one.  Yes, it is a long and winding road, and I know I will hold fast to my vision and continue the walk until the end - however, and whenever that may come.  And when I reach that end, I can say to the great Creator that I lived and walked the path of my purpose - bumps and all, and it was well and truly worth each step.

This above all, to thine own self be true.  And it must follow, as the night the day, Thou canst not then be false to anyone. - William Shakespeare

Namaste,

Lesli

The position of the artist is humble.  He is essentially a channel. - Piet Mondrian

This year, I made a commitment that I would work to extend myself as a photographer, and to look at ways in which I could increase my vision and tap into creativity.  I believe that learning to trust that we are creative is one of the first hurtles anyone who works in art encounters.  We question, we worry, we have self doubt.  We don't trust ourselves or the process.  

Then, as I thought about this week's blog, (and resisted the urge to write something fluffy about Valentine's Day!), I realized that many of the very challenges that confront artists also confront us as human beings.  We have self doubt, we are skeptical that we are making right decisions, we second guess ourselves and by doing so, place roadblocks in the way of our growth.  We close our minds rather than opening them - and opening them is the very thing we need to do!

No matter what our chosen profession, we can open our paths to creativity and growth by opening to the positive, the good, and the possible.  We can learn to focus on what is possible (anything!) rather than limiting ourselves by continually looking at what we have not or did not do.  Even when the outcome is not exactly as we planned it, there is still a wonderful part that we DID do, if we just look and see that glimmer of the goal we met.  Even if it is not what we pictured, we can study and learn from it.  This is the path to creativity and growth, courage that all is possible by opening our minds and our channels to the positive.

Staying on the positive path is not easy.  We are bombarded with negativity, despair, criticism, challenges that feel insurmountable, and we can be filled with doubt that we know anything.  Yes, the real truth is that we DO know.  We know that we have the courage, the knowledge, the faith to look deep into the negative and find the good and the beautiful.  How?  Practice.  Practice turning things around.  The next time you are stuck in traffic and feeling angry or upset, turn on your favorite CD or radio station and sing!  Yes, people may look at you funny, but I can guarantee that you will be having a much better time as you move along the highway.  When you are criticized or hurt by someone, go to a place of inner peace, and wish that person well.  Let go of anger or hurt, and turn to your thoughts to compassion and love.  Keep doing this practice whenever you are met with negativity - it releases you from taking the dark road, and brings you to the light.  

Even though you may not define yourself as an artist, or work in the arts, each of us is a creative in our own right.  We all create something every day, and every day is new.  Think of that.  Look, open your eyes and see how you create, how incredible that is!  We are each special artists, channels through which our Creator works.  Honor that, and commit to keeping your feet on the path of the positive.  Practice seeing the positive and the possible, and just as a musician becomes a master through continued practice, you will become master of your life, standing in the light, feeling its warmth and goodness, walking the path of joy and gratitude.  

We will discover the nature of our particular genius when we stop trying to conform to our own or other peoples' models and learn to be ourselves, allowing our natural channels to open. - Sharti Gawain

Namaste, and Happy Valentine's Day,

Lesli

Art does not reproduce the visible, rather it makes visible.  - Paul Klee

This year, one of the goals I set for myself as a photographer is to work on honing my vision and composition - in essence, learning to see.  One of the challenging tasks in photography is to learn to essentially manage the functions of the left brain (the analytical) and right brain (the creative) in a way that unifies those functions in order to end up with a good image composition.  One must work with both sides of the cognitive function and understand that seeing and composition are essentially intermeshed.

Generally, this is one of those "easier said than done" moments.  While many great photographers are able to compose great images seemingly with ease, most of them have spent many long hours working to refine, refine and refine some more.  They have worked long and steadily to improve their perception and vision, and to "see" both the large picture and the small details - they see both the forest and the trees.

One of the ways to work to improve this task as a photographer is to master your camera and its capabilities and become fully skilled and proficient in operating it.  Becoming proficient in the operation of your camera allows you to let yourself move toward more of the right brain operations - those that open your creativity.  If you spend a lot of time trying to figure out what dial changes shutter speed, or how to change your aperture, or what dial or button works the white balance, you will have little time left to shoot that sunrise before it is gone!

When you are able to work with your camera, change becomes natural and second nature - allowing you to react more quickly to capture moments.  This opens time to develop your artistic vision and composition and improve your work.  I have been practicing and looking how to break a composition into lines, shapes, and points, visualizing how they intersect or stand within a linear perspective.  I look for moments to move out of my photographic comfort zone and experiment with something different.  The image above is the result of one of those moments.  A few weeks ago, I was out working shooting images of a snowy owl along a windy and cold Washington coastline. Standing there, waiting for a good moment, I saw this scene out to the corner of my eye, turned the camera and shot the image.  It was something different and I shot it to test my view of lines and color.  I was interested in the linear starkness of the coastline and the women hiking with walking sticks juxtaposed with the rounded shape and bright colors of the kite in the blue sky.

I'm not sure this image would fit within my portfolio of nature work, but the point is to push and stretch, and to photograph those things that may not appeal to you in order to advance and move your vision forward.  Street photography or modernistic photography might not be your forte, but if you use them as a tool to push you and develop your intuitive senses, you will develop a stronger and more expansive artistic way of thinking and seeing.

So, fellow photographers and visual artists, look at ways to refine your vision - there are some great books and webinars out there with excellent exercises and suggestions.  Look at the work of other artists and photographers, and how they use light, line and composition.  See which appeals to you, and then look at how you can incorporate that into your own works.  This works no matter if your medium is photography, graphic arts or quilt making!  Learn and grow, and your personal vision will emerge fully, like the butterfly in the Spring!

”The seed of your next art work lies embedded in the imperfections of your current piece. Such imperfections (or mistakes, if you’re feeling particularly depressed about them today) are your guides - valuable, reliable, objective, non-judgmental guides -- to matters you need to reconsider or develop further.” - David Bayles and Ted Orland

Namaste,
 

Lesli 

“Knowing trees, I understand the meaning of patience. Knowing grass, I can appreciate persistence.” 

This week's blog will be a bit different - and for this, I have to thank my husband, Rich.  He always reads my blogs, and after the last one, he said they are a little long.  Well, I am not sure I can often get across what I want in a shorter version, so in order to keep things fresh, I thought that I would do a "short and sweet" blog of some points to consider for 2013.

1.  Be thankful for each day you have.  Live each one to the fullest.

2.  Let go of negative thoughts and emotions.  They cloud your judgement and can limit your thinking.  

3.  Laugh.  Laugh a lot, and then laugh some more.  You can even extend your life by doing this.

4.  Don't take yourself too seriously, and every once in a while, let your inner child out to play.

5.  Slow down and look for the beauty of nature in even the smallest things, in every season.  Ever look closely at an artichoke?  Try it - it's fascinating!  (pick your favorite veggie - it works!)

6.  Tell your spouse, family, significant other, children, pets, close friends just how much you love and cherish them - often!

7.  Remember that listening is an active event - and cannot be achieved while "multi-tasking" or anything that takes a millisecond of your focus away from the person speaking to you. (no matter how good you think you are at it!)

8.  Mashed potatoes are a comfort food.  Ok, maybe just for me.  Just seeing if you are paying attention...

9.  Dream

10.  Every 6 months, go to the grocery store and buy a bag of food, or make one from your pantry to donate to your local food bank or shelter.  It's a terrible thing for people to go hungry in our world.  Every little bit helps.

So that's all.  Short and sweet, nothing philosophical or dramatic, and likely many things you have heard before.  Yet, it never hurts to hear it again - as humans we need to have things repeated to us several times before they get into out brains!

What's on your list?  I would love to hear.  

Namaste,

Lesli

Image "On The Watch" copyright 2013, Images Through The Door Photography.  Taken at the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, Olympia Washington.

"Life is the art of drawing without an eraser." - John Gardner

I was reading a website recently, and came across this quote.  As as artist, I stopped and laughed when I first read it, then I paused and gave myself a moment to contemplate it.  I thought that mainly, the quote is true - we rarely get to erase events or moments in our lives unless we try really hard to do that, but even then the "drawing" remains.  But who controls the brush or the pencil of the life drawing?

Many people go throughout their lives believing that their path is determined by nature or nurture; that once they have "something" in their past or present,  that their life is forever shaded by that.  They feel that not only do they not have the eraser, but that their own "drawing" is in indelible ink, never to be changed or adapted, and they live in despair fettered by the thought that they have no control of the brush or the pencil drawing their life art. 

Yet, there are many examples where someone has been able to rise above what might have been, and become more than they ever imagined, because they DID imagine and dreamed that dream.  These are people whose stories touch us and inspire us.  They take control of their life and they become the artist in charge of the drawing, rather than letting something else take control.  I recently saw a story about a man who was born without arms and legs, save a small foot.  Even though he was raised by kind and loving parents,  life growing up was one of hardship and of being different.  He was bullied at school, and even at one point considered taking his own life.  Yet he came through even this darkest moment because he felt in his head and in his heart that he had more to do, more to share, that his life could be a touchstone.  He now travels across the world giving lectures and sharing his courage with others, showing they what they can accomplish through love and faith, happy in his ability, his life drawing without the eraser.  He has taken charge of his life and his canvas is more beautiful than many others more able-bodied than him.  He knows that if his words help even one person, he has been a success.

These are the people who show us the path, who walk the way and are true leaders and life-guides.  They might not be household names, but they should be - more than many that are revered for prowess or fame, only to be shown in the harsh light of truth that they are not what they appear.  Those who are our beacons walk quietly among us, shining their light happily for others to see without wanting of reward.  They are our treasures - our true and faithful friends, our loving families,  or maybe even someone whose path we crossed only briefly yet touched us deeply.   They have learned the way to embrace their life drawing, and to share that learning with us so that we may be the artist of our life.  

So, are you the artist of your own life?  Are you drawing your life with your own brush in your hand, or are you letting someone else draw that instead?  We must be in charge of our life drawing, otherwise, it cannot truly be ours.  Paint with the brush of love and compassion, of faith and hope, of charity and forgiveness, of gratitude and humility.  In this way, your life art can be a masterpiece.

I used the image above for this week's blog because it is of Paris - The City of Light, and a place filled with art, and one that continues to inspire artists everywhere.  Be your own life artist!

Namaste,

Lesli

You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream. 

If you change, nothing, nothing will change.

Here we are, the start of 2013...and if you are like many people, you have made a few resolutions for the New Year.  Perhaps you want to be more active, eat healthier, spend more time with your family and friends, learn a new language or be more productive in your business.  No matter what your resolution, the rubber, as the saying goes, needs to hit the road.  As the title of this says, if you change nothing, nothing will change.

As a photographer, I think about this saying each time I go out to shoot, and in my "off" time.   I spend non-shooting time reading up on how to create stronger images, how to establish my vision as a photographer, and on ways to look at photography in its basic form of lines, color and light, as painters and sculptors do.  Then, I use those learnings to compose, visualize and process my images to get the language and the vision of what I saw when I composed the shot.  It's work - and a lot of it, but I know that if I really want to speak in the visual language of photography, I must practice my art - a lot, and continually challenge myself to see and work differently so I can grow and express and communicate with my photography. That is what my photography and art is about - communication  - and to share something that will touch you or speak to you. 

It is important to keep the saying in mind no matter what you do, because it applies to nearly everything in life.  Change is good, but without a clear sense of where you want to be and what steps you need to take to get there, you have no path, no map and no direction.  And it is likely that you will end up going nowhere or just giving up.  We must set the stage, write the script and edit, re-edit and review again and again.  

Change is often not easy for us, so give yourself some help.  Enlist a friend or buddy or your significant other to help you along and keep your feet on the path.  Check in with others who are going for the same or similar goals and see what they have done that helped them succeed.  Keep your eyes on the prize - no matter what that might be for you.  Challenge yourself to go further, to try something totally new and different.  Follow your dream.  Be that change.

My hope is that in some small way, either through this blog or my images, I have touched you or given you pause for thought.  My goal for 2013 is to continue my own learning and communication through photography, to sharpen my creative edge.  And to give more, smile more, laugh more, and understand more of anyone with whom I come into contact - because in this world, if we change nothing, nothing will change.   

“If we would change ourselves, the tendencies in the world would also change.

As a man changes his own nature, so does the attitude of the world change towards him.  We need not wait to see what others do.”

- Gandhi

Namaste,

Lesli

The color of springtime is in the flowers; the color of winter is in the imagination.  

~Terri Guillemets

As the end of this year draws near, I looked back at some of my past blogs, and re-read the lovely and wonderful comments that I received.  I found that, even though these are part of my photography site,  most of the blogs I wrote had to do with life, finding peace, happiness, friendship, being thankful, empathy and the seasons that are part of our lives.  I wrote what was in my heart even if it had little or nothing at all to do with photography.  Most of the time these thoughts came naturally - that lovely state that writers call "flow", and I have truly enjoyed sharing those thoughts with you, my readers, my friends.  

So this last blog for the year is about looking back, and looking forward for us all.

As we are in the midst of the Winter Solstice (for most of the country!), coming to the end of the Christmas/Holiday season, most of us are preparing to welcome 2013 - happy that the Mayan prophesy was incorrect and we are all still here.  The energy and drive that is with us in the Spring and Summer has transformed to the slower, heavier, metered pace of Winter. It's the call to snuggle with a blanket and a warm cup of tea and a good book - to slow down and let your imagination have time to be free.  Winter, as Terri Guillements says, is in the imagination.

Perhaps this is why we think about our plans and hopes for the New Year.  In the Winter, we have time to reflect and consider our past year - what we did well, and what was not as good; what we would like to achieve in 2013, and for what we hope to happen.  We can be as expansive or as precise as we want - there are no real guidelines for our resolutions - they are left to our Winter imagination.  Winter seems to slow the pace of life for a short time, giving us longer nights to sit by the fire and ponder our lives.  It's the long plunge before Spring awakening that brings us out of our Winter hibernation, ready to welcome the new, fresh and green shoots and flowers, to till the soil of our lives.

So as we look to the end of 2012, and the start of 2013, let your imagination be free; let your thoughts be expansive, and unlimited.  Set the bar higher than you think would be possible, because you can reach the stars.  And even if you touch the sky, and not the stars, you have still reached greater, farther and higher.  Stretch your goals, your limits, your self.  Love more, laugh more, share more.  Take each moment as a precious one, because they are.  Before Winter passes, remember your resolutions - write them down,  or write a journal as you work toward them.  Let them take hold of the soil of your life, and tend them as they grow.  You may find that, in doing this,  the color of your Spring is much more than only the flowers!

In closing, thank you all for reading, commenting, "liking", sharing, and learning along with me as the blog continues.  I truly appreciate all of you!

Now, I'm off to consider my own resolutions  - over a nice warm cup of tea!  Have a wonderful and very Happy New Year!

Namaste,

Lesli

This week is a simple message for all - I know we have all been hurt by the recent events in Connecticut, and may find it a little challenging to find our holiday spirit intact.  Yet, this is exactly what we need to have - our spirit of thankfulness, of giving, of love for each and everyone, and of hope.  We must hold hope and love in our hearts and know that this is the path we all must walk to make our world a better place.  Only hope and love will guide us to the direction of healing and reconciliation, of compassion and care - to peace.

Our world is a challenging place, and we will be exposed to conflicts and events that shake us to our very core.  Even so, we cannot and must not succumb to the evils that are out there.  We must turn to our faith, to our friends and loved ones, and the beliefs that guide us no matter in what higher power we believe.  We can grieve but we must not fall into a grief that blinds us.  I was so heartened by many of the parents and families in Sandy Hook who hold no hatred for the boy who took the lives of the lost ones.  They know that the way to heal, to recover, is through love and peace.  They are a beacon for us all.

Peace and love must guide our dialogue going forward, to solve this, and so much more of the ills of our world.  It's not easy always to hold love in your heart when the path becomes rocky and the edge seems so near.  We must not despair, and we cannot allow hatred to filter through.  This takes much vigilance, and can often be more challenging than to give in to hate and darkness.  But we cannot.  We must know that for every evil, there is good tenfold times over again.  Hold onto that thought - hug your loved ones, give a smile to a stranger, and let compassion and love fill our hearts, for only then are we walking the path of peace.

Finally, Thank you to everyone who has been following my blog - you are my presents, and I am so warmed by your comments and responses.  I  will continue the blog, and continue to welcome your thoughts and comments. Thank you all, and may your Holidays be filled with love.

Come, ye disconsolate, where'er you languish,

Come at the shrine of God fervently kneel:

Here bring your wounded hearts, here tell your anguish—

Namaste,

Lesli

The love of family and the admiration of friends is much more important than wealth and privilege. 

Charles Kuralt 

This week I have been thinking over what I wanted to write about for the blog.  I was not sure in which direction I wanted to head, and then I got a few emails from my family, and decided that they would be my subjects for the week.  

Certainly, nearly everyone has some family or in-laws or friends who are close enough to be family, and for them we should be grateful - even if we don't always see eye to eye.  I consider myself lucky to have grown up in a family life that was caring and loving - not everyone has that.  We had our disagreements and even separations, yet even after all the trials, I knew they loved me, and I loved them in return.  When my Mom passed away, I felt this loss deeply, but her words and love are in my heart everyday.  Dad is still around and kicking, yet I know the day will come that it will not be so, and I cherish the time we have together.  My brother and I email and talk, and even though we are on opposite sides of the US, we keep in touch, and share our love and the bond we have.

Over 25 years ago, I married into a new family - my husband and his three other brothers, all now with spouses (and families) of their own.  I recall some of the first times we all gathered together for family events, and was stunned by the way they could all talk and argue at the same time, with love.  I remember holidays when, at an appropriate sober moment, they would spontaneously break out into uncontrollable laughter, much to the chagrin of their Mom.  Now, as we are all spread across the country, it would have been easy to lose that closeness, yet they, and we, have not.  The brothers still have (loud) discussions, and when the entire extended family gathers together, I think the decibel level would rival a sports event!  We talk on the phone, we email, we have gatherings and visit each other.  And we honestly enjoy and love each other!

This is something for which I am truly grateful.  Family can get a bad rap sometimes, and perhaps at times it might deserve that.  Yet, it is likely that you are in the majority of people who have a good and healthy family life.  It's something to be happy and to have joy about, even with those moments of annoyance and disagreement.  Those pass - and you are still left with someone who loves you - your family, your treasure.  Remember to honor them, and count them as the blessings they truly are.  And if your family life was, or is, a struggle, remember the good and forgive the not so good.  Find strength and love in your friends, for they may become as family.  

So, to follow my own advice, I send my love to my entire Cohan/Cap family, and my thanks for including me in your circle.  I love your individuality, your quirks, your smiles and laughs, and thank you for your respect and encouragement, and your love.  To my Dad, step-mom, and my big brother - all my love, thanks, and a big hug across the miles.  I miss you.

And to my wonderful husband, Rich, there are no words that can even come close to letting you know just how much I love you, so I will continue to tell you every day, every moment we are together, just how much you mean to me.  Even that is not enough to show the depth of my love for you.  

You are all in my heart - for always.  You are all my treasure, my gift.  

"You don't choose your family. They are God's gift to you, as you are to them."

-Desmond Tutu

Namaste,

Lesli

Thousands of candles can be lit from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. 

I recently read this quote and considered it carefully.  I don't really think that Buddha was literally referring to candles, rather that we humans are the candles, and we can choose to share out light and happiness without being diminished by doing so.  I think this stuck with me as we draw closer to the holidays, as something to strive for each day, not merely at one time of year.

It is difficult for many people to have a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah or Joyous Kwanza because of their challenges with which they must face - be it a lost job, a difficult home life, health challenges, inadequate living facilities or someone who is challenged to find joy in the season.  Many of these issues are acutely felt at this time of year, and many who are in these situations have difficulty asking for help or assistance.  I believe that this is where we can let our candles burn most brightly - and most wonderfully.

We can do even small things that will make a difference.  Clean out your closet and donate to a shelter or a non-profit, make a donation to a friend's favorite organization as their gift, volunteer to help make dinner at a shelter or take food to those who are shut-in, drop the equivalent amount you spent on your latte into a donation bucket, renew or begin your membership in an organization that works for the betterment of mankind, or adopt a family in need.  My husband and I have adopted a family over the past several years, and we find we get real joy in shopping for those special gifts.  It really gets your candle burning brightly!

I have seen how this can make a difference, and have done each of the things on the list above, so I do follow what I ask of you!   Consider how you can make your candle one that lights the candle of happiness for others, and know that in doing so, your happiness will be increased, and your candle will shine brightly in your life and your heart.  Share that joy now, and throughout every day of every year to come and your heart will be filled with compassion and lifted like a bird flying high in the clouds.

And if you need to hear this from Bill Murray, watch this - http://cli.ps/ZTcn . (with love to Rich)

Namaste,

Lesli