Love, whether newly born, or aroused from a deathlike slumber,
must always create sunshine, filling the heart so full of radiance,
that it overflows upon the outward world. — Nathaniel Hawthorne
The theme this week reminded me of the sculptures in the Prayer Garden
by local artist Barry Eisenhart. Each sculpture symbolizes one of the universal
powers (abilities). Below are 9 of the 12, most of which were captured back in January.
Life – Based on a wave, the circle of life is fragile, represented by the thin, delicate point of connection. The protective cradle holds two circles, representing cells that form life.
Order – These elements represent the sequential order and inherent structure of life, showing the beauty of balance
Will – The ability to choose between two options. The center represents a strong inner force
Zeal – This flame represents our ability to ignite passion and enthusiasm.
Imagination – A nutshell breaks open and expands like a tree growing upwards. Ideas are represented by bubbles multiplying — a reminder that all things are possible.
Understanding – A companion to imagination. As we begin to understand ideas, things settle and our focus becomes clearer.
Wisdom – The intertwining represents working through, evaluating, discerning and resolving — finding a pearl of wisdom in our center
Release – Spiraling up and letting go, working through and bringing to the surface things we need to release.
Love – Two hearts are intertwined, signifying eternal harmony and unity
“Love is the dancing cry of the soul, calling the body to worship
Like a shining whirlpool, or a spinning mayfly
So is love among the skies.
I leap across the mountaintops, madly singing the song of all songs
I float through the ether, intoxicated, thrilled
I think only of your love, your calling to me
And I dance the thousand dances of love, all returning to you.”
Jalāl ad-Dīn Muhammad Rūmī
” As my words turn to silence,
Your sweetness surrounds me. ”
– Hakim Sanai, The Walled Garden of Truth
“Our hours in love have wings; in absence, crutches.” — Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra
The subject matter is so much more important than the photographer. – Gordon Parks
Monochrome Madness will be posted later today for your viewing pleasure on Leanne Cole’s blog.
If you would like to participate and submit a photo in the upcoming weeks, please email your monochrome image to leanne@leannecole.com.au and include a link to your blog or website if you have one. It doesn’t have to be WordPress blogger, it can be a Facebook page, a Flickr page, etc. Include your name or your blog name. The image size should be low resolution, so the largest size should be 1000 pixels or less. The deadline for submission is before 6 p.m. on or before Tuesday, Melbourne Australia time. The earlier the better for Leanne. If you should miss the deadline your photograph will be posted the following week. The complete instructions are posted on Leanne’s blog should you have any questions or need help. The first MM of every month will have a theme. The next theme will be “bridges” for MM 2-22. There will be two galleries during the theme week, one for the theme and one like there normally is for those that may choose not to do a theme. ✽
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“There’s nothing deeper than love. In fairy tales, the princesses kiss the frogs, and the frogs become princes. In real life, the princesses kiss princes, and the princes turn into frogs.”
— Paulo Coelho, By the River Piedra I Sat Down and Wept
“Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us,
that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph.” ― Thomas Paine
Maverick Mist 