A perfect reflection of the sky can only be seen
in still waters.
A perfect reflection of the soul can only be experienced
with a still mind.
Photo source: sunrise reflection
March 14, 2013
March 13, 2013
KNOW WITHOUT GOING
Without going out of your door,
You can know the whole world
Without looking through your window,
You can see the Tao of Heaven.
The further one goes,
The less one knows.
Therefore the Sage
Knows without going
Names without seeing
Achieves without striving.
-Lao-tzu
Photo source: composite: take-off
March 13, 2013
SEEK THAT WHICH IS
Seek the wisdom
that will untie your knot
Seek the path
that demands your whole being.
Leave that which is not, but appears
to be
Seek that which is, but is
not apparent.
–Rumi
Born Jalaludin Mohamad (1207-1273) in Persia, Rumi is perhaps the best known Sufi poet. His beautiful poetry has inspired many throughout the centuries and has been a significant influence in literature around the world. Interestingly, in 2007, Rumi was even described as the most popular poet in America.
Photo source: looking ahead (Carrasqueira, Portugal)
March 12, 2013
BEAUTY
A friend of mine shared this photo today, and I was blown away! This woman is so beautiful to me! And it made me think about what makes a person beautiful…
It is said that in nature, beauty is defined by symmetry. But when I see this picture, it’s more than just symmetry…there is a certain magnetism and spirit and power that you can feel. The vibrant colors she wears seem to highlight this energy even more.
I do not believe beauty is just skin deep. The reflection of a person’s soul is what really shines through. I think that the more connected a person is to the oneness of the universe, the more their beautiful soul shines through. To realize true beauty, look deeper :)
Photo source: beautiful woman (Kenya)
March 12, 2013
AUDREY HEPBURN
Audrey Hepburn (1929-1993) was most known for her legendary beauty onscreen and wonderful humanitarian efforts (as a Global Ambassador for UNICEF) offscreen. But more than that, Audrey always seemed to exude joy to me!
Growing up, I watched so many of her movies (thanks, Mom ;) and always appreciated her grace and charm. I considered her beauty to be classic…stunning, while always tastefully dressed. Audrey considered happy girls to be the prettiest girls and shared this, most wonderful, beauty advice:
For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others;
For beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness;
And for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.
—
Love! :) Would that we could have more Audreys in cinema today…
Online biography: Audrey Hepburn
Photo source: Audrey’s smile :)
March 12, 2013
LESS IS MORE
Mystery is the essence of allure.
Imagination allows us to fill in the blanks.
However, with the current culture of over-sharing (social media, etc.), there are fewer blanks to fill.
I think it’s better to keep ’em guessing! ;)
Photo source: leaf lips ;)
March 11, 2013
GIRLFRIENDS
In honor of all of my super-amazing girlfriends (you know who you are!), this photo is us in 60 years…haha! Ok, maybe just the happiness part ;)
The beauty of a true girlfriend is that no matter how much time passes, you can pick up the phone, call her, and have a brilliant conversation…about absolutely nothing! hahaha The best moments are filled with spontaneous laughter and smiles about adventures together over the years. With true friends, the love you share for each other allows you to forgive and move on. You are there for each other through the highs and lows.
Cultivating strong friendships is a way to add more color and fun to life…while having an additional support system. (As the proverb goes: A shared joy is a double joy, and a shared sorrow is a half sorrow!) And since these sister-friends end up knowing all of your secrets, you really are stuck with them for life! In my case, this is a true blessing ;)
Photo source: girlfriends (Vietnam)
March 11, 2013
JOY
This picture makes me happy! And it makes me smile :) It symbolizes what childhood should be about…happy children playing together and smiling…in the ocean :) How beautiful! No fighting, just love and joy.
I believe hate is learned. Children learn from their family, friends, or environment that someone or something is bad or wrong…and hate develops.
As adults, we have the ability to use our increased awareness to UNLEARN hate and anger and get back to joy. Letting go of the negativity makes room for even more positivity in your life.
We are all one…so when you hate your neighbor, you are hating yourself. Forgiveness and compassion allows you to heal wounds and find common ground with others…even when you don’t believe it is possible. But it is possible. Maybe you are both are sons…or you both have sons…or you both love your mother. Realizing any simple connection is enough to develop compassion for another because we are all the same, and only differ in our unique gifts.
If enemies, opposing nations and friends could step into this picture and transform to regain a carefree childlike mindset, I believe this world would be a much happier place :)
Photo source: friends playing (Belize)