Hubble’s colourful view of the Universe (Photo credit: Hubble Space Telescope / ESA)

Desiderata

Go placidly amid the noise and haste.
and remember what peace there may be in silence.
As far as possible without surrender
be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly;
and listen to others,
even the dull and the ignorant;
they too have their story.

Avoid loud and aggressive persons,
they are vexations to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others,
you may become vain and bitter;
for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.

Keep interested in your own career, however humble;
it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs;
for the world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is;
many persons strive for high ideals;
and everywhere life is full of heroism.

Be yourself.
Especially, do not feign affection.
Neither be cynical about love;
for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment
it is as perennial as the grass.

Take kindly the counsel of the years,
gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.
But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline,
be gentle with yourself.

You are a child of the universe,
no less than the trees and the stars;
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you,
no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

Therefore be at peace with God,
whatever you conceive Him to be,
and whatever your labors and aspirations,
in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.

With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy. ~ Max Ehrmann

Day 3, The August Break

This is a cropped photograph of day 3 of “The August Break 2014.” Clearly, I seriously need the practice. Anyway, the center item is one of the first mixed media pieces that I finished and I was quite proud of myself. Beside it, is a lion that is near and dear to my heart because my youngest daughter, now 34 years old, made it for me when she was little tyke. I will treasure it always.

What’s he thinking?

Today is week 31 of The 52 Project and I am obsessed with photos of my new g’son. I can’t help wondering about the thoughts going through his head. What does he think about this new world and his loving new family? I can’t recall if babies can distinguish between them, but what does he think of the color red? What does he think of me? I love this photograph of him with the necklace around his neck. He looks like a baby hippie. If I must say so myself, he is one handsome and precious little guy.