The Betrayal of Beauty.....

I have written before on the subject of Beauty. So when I happened upon this quote, I couldn't help but share it with you. It's short enough, to the point, and speaks volumes.

There are too many individuals who are misled into believing the lie/illusion of beauty. They, themselves, are therefore left feeling inadequate and undeserving of acceptance, and in even worse cases, love.

This self defecating attitude must end. These "ad wizards" and "image makers" should be held accountable for their unrealistic public portrayals of beauty. Unfortunately, society is brainwashed in this myth and all too compliant with these portrayals.

Maybe I'm a bit passionate about this subject because I see beauty in all things.

Maybe it's because I know that perfection is an illusion.

Maybe it because of all the pain and heartache that comes with trying to live up to others' expectations in regards to their appearance. Which, in some cases can be a precursor to self abusive behavior.

I believe that the key to success in changing any negative perceptions about others lies in education and positive role models and mentors. We must learn to not live in ignorance but to thrive in the acceptance of all.

Gardening Gifts and the Connections they Make.....

We are, as humans, creators. As you invest your time in the reproduction/replenishing of flower and fauna, you are connecting with nature in a most wonderful way. You are, in essence, the mother of what you propagate, watching your offspring grow and thrive, nurturing/guiding it along when needed, and reaping the benefits of its strong growth and great beauty

 

To me, gardening is more than just digging a hole in the ground and dropping in a plant or two. it's a completely spiritual experience; a time to connect with Mother Nature and all her glory. As I dig in the dirt, it take in the aroma of the earth and feel as though i am making a contribution of sorts to my family, friends, community, and to myself. I feel that it is of great benefit to beautify your surroundings to every other living creature in your midst. I use the time spent in the garden for reflection, thinking of what was and what will become. I cannot help but feel a sense of hope and peace when I am in the garden.

 

 

This connection brings me to a great place of gratitude as well as accomplishment. Being grateful for the opportunity and ability to be one with the earth and the satisfaction of the contribution I have been able to make in my own little way.

 

 

In sharing my thoughts and feelings about my "garden experience" to you, I hope that the next time you go out into your garden you are able to take a moment and truly reflect on what it means to you, and how it benefits your well-being and peace of mind. If you do not have a garden (for whatever reason) you may want to reconsider the idea of being a gardener. you don't have to "go big". Start out small with a manageable space that does not overwhelm you at first. you can always increase its size as is wanted or needed. If land is unavailable, please consider container gardening. This type of gardening can be most creative as well as inspirational!

 

(All these photos are courtesy of my own garden!)

We are, as humans, creators. As you invest your time in the reproduction/replenishing of flower and fauna, you are connecting with nature in a most wonderful way. You are, in essence, the mother of what you propagate, watching your offspring grow and thrive, nurturing/guiding it along when needed, and reaping the benefits of its strong growth and great beauty

 

To me, gardening is more than just digging a hole in the ground and dropping in a plant or two. it's a completely spiritual experience; a time to connect with Mother Nature and all her glory. As I dig in the dirt, it take in the aroma of the earth and feel as though i am making a contribution of sorts to my family, friends, community, and to myself. I feel that it is of great benefit to beautify your surroundings to every other living creature in your midst. I use the time spent in the garden for reflection, thinking of what was and what will become. I cannot help but feel a sense of hope and peace when I am in the garden.

 

 

This connection brings me to a great place of gratitude as well as accomplishment. Being grateful for the opportunity and ability to be one with the earth and the satisfaction of the contribution I have been able to make in my own little way.

 

 

In sharing my thoughts and feelings about my "garden experience" to you, I hope that the next time you go out into your garden you are able to take a moment and truly reflect on what it means to you, and how it benefits your well being and peace of mind. If you do not have a garden (for whatever reason) you may want to reconsider the idea of being a gardener. you don't have to "go big". Start out small with a manageable space that does not overwhelm you at first. you can always increase its size as is wanted or needed. If land is unavailable, please consider container gardening. This type of gardening can be most creative as well as inspirational!

 

(All these photos are courtesy of my own garden!)

A Most Beautiful Representation of How we are ALL MATHEMATICALLY CONNECTED.....PEACE ;)

Nature by Numbers from Cristóbal Vila on Vimeo.

The Recognition and Appreciation of Your Own Beauty

I'm sure we could all agree that sunsets, chubby babies, and rainbows are beautiful. At the same time, we also posses unique differences in our personal view when it comes to what we deem as beautiful. With our individual view, we find beauty all around us. I am writing this post today in order for you, dear reader, to recognize the beauty that is you. This is not a superficial statement, it is a truth in being.


Every individual born on this planet is a miracle to behold, and in this there is great beauty. Unfortunately we, as a society, have put unrealistic visions in our heads of what we are supposed to accept as being beautiful. I am here to tell you that these standards are not what real beauty is about and never will be because beauty is all inclusive.

You're personal beauty not only lies in your appearance but also within you. This combination, once recognized, will have a glowing effect on your life. It will also give you the confidence to spread your light upon those around you. Any negative voices need to be put out of your head so that you are free to accept the fact that you are worthy of others adoration. You are in control of your own standards and well being. You are a gift to yourself as well as others. You are beautiful!

Perfectly Imperfect the Key to Character and a Self Assured Outlook ....

Pictured below is an antique piano given to us by very dear friends. As you can see, on the exterior, the original casters are missing. What you can't see, on the interior, is the inner workings that will not allow for it to stay in tune any longer. What you hear is a mostly off key instrument with a few good notes in between. I find great beauty and joy in this piece, in all of it's imperfections, and for the character it holds within. I thought that this would serve as an appropriate metaphor for this post. Even the lamp that sits on top (pictured below) is missing some of its original crystals which I have attempted to replace over time.

Ok, I'll be the first to admit it, I can be bit of a perfectionist. It's just part of my genetic makeup. I work hard on curbing my critical nature, but at the same time, I feel fortunate to be this way because it helps me to stay focused. I am most critical when it comes to myself, in all aspects of my being, from the superficial to the supremely important things; yet when it comes to the world around me, I find the most beauty in its imperfections.

First let me express my thoughts on perfection. I truly believe that the whole concept of perfection is an unachievable myth. Those who try to achieve perfection never really get there because there will inevitably be an even higher accomplishment or standard set right in front of them, which makes it a constant and almost infinite plight. Perfection is also quite subjective. What I deem as perfect, you may not, and visa versa. Also, if someone presents themselves to others as being perfect then, well, there are just too many internal issues within their being for me to consider delving into on this post. We can visit that type of person at another time. Let's just say, for now, that they are not.

The dents, dings, and lopsidedness of it all is what really gives me great joy! This goes for all living things as well as objects. For example, the used chest that has the veneer peeling off a bit is more appealing to me with it's old patina than a brand new one. The old house, even though it needs a lot of work, gives me goosebumps as opposed  to the ones in the newest development. The quirky old friend that I just cannot figure out and older women that carry themselves with class and grace are way more pleasing to me than the opposites of the aforementioned. All theses examples have one common thread running throughout: character.

 You see, perfection really does not rate high on the character scale with me. I believe that in imperfection, you find the real beauty within yourself and the world around you. The seasoned individual, the well developed soul, the wisdom accumulated through a lifetime of trial and error, and the untuneable old piano.

I would like you to be able to find the peaceful truth of this overshadowed beauty within you and to reach out into your surroundings while embracing its imperfection of character. To be comfortable with your body, home, and the ones you love. Not to be expecting this unattainable myth of yourself, or anyone you know, because moving forward you'll find that this is an unreasonable request and will ultimately leave you damaged, disappointed, and unassured. Also, do not ever let anyone put these expectations of their perception of perfection onto you. You cannot and should not live up to those unreasonable standards because you are already perfectly imperfect. Be blessed, be happy, and be you !!

"Gardening gifts and connections made........"

We are, as humans, creators. As you invest your time in the reproduction/replenishing of flower and fauna, you are connecting with nature in a most wonderful way. You are, in essence, the mother of what you propagate, watching your offspring grow and thrive, nurturing/guiding it along when needed, and reaping the benefits of its strong growth and great beauty

To me, gardening is more than just digging a hole in the ground and dropping in a plant or two. it's a completely spiritual experience; a time to connect with Mother Nature and all her glory. As I dig in the dirt, it take in the aroma of the earth and feel as though i am making a contribution of sorts to my family, friends, community, and to myself. I feel that it is of great benefit to beautify your surroundings to every other living creature in your midst. I use the time spent in the garden for reflection, thinking of what was and what will become. I cannot help but feel a sense of hope and peace when I am in the garden.

This connection brings me to a great place of gratitude as well as accomplishment. Being grateful for the opportunity and ability to be one with the earth and the satisfaction of the contribution I have been able to make in my own little way.

In sharing my thoughts and feelings about my "garden experience" to you, I hope that the next time you go out into your garden you are able to take a moment and truly reflect on what it means to you, and how it benefits your well being and peace of mind. If you do not have a garden (for whatever reason) you may want to reconsider the idea of being a gardener. you don't have to "go big". Start out small with a manageable space that does not overwhelm you at first. you can always increase its size as is wanted or needed. If land is unavailable, please consider container gardening. This type of gardening can be most creative as well as inspirational!

(All these photos are courtesy of my own garden!)