There’s a lot going on in my life right now, as I’m sure there is in yours. Thus I’m simplifying today’s issue with very few words.
A few years prior to my even starting Picture to Ponder, a mentor who saw my emerging photography said, “Sheila, something is telling me to tell you, ‘Don’t talk.'” I understood at the time and when I started Picture to Ponder there were few words. See “Intentions” in Issue 1 (Dec. 9, 2004).
Now, as I go back over issues from the past year or two, I see more and more words or “talking”. So for today, and most likely beyond, I’m minimizing on words, inviting you to supply them or to simply “be” with the photo(s).
Today’s Featured Photos –
Reflected Sunset underneath the boardwalk at Green Cay Wetlands, Boynton Beach, FL
Without the boardwalk
In the second photo I zoomed in on the reflecting sunset, eliminating the boardwalk. See Self-Reflecting Queries for my observation on this.
Today’s Photo Story –
There’s not a particular “story” around today’s photos and I could create one. I’m wondering do the “stories” I include make a difference for you?
Self-Reflecting Queries –
I posed the question above, specifically, “Do my stories as I include them in Picture to Ponder make a difference for you?”
And, then I went on to observe, for myself, how much of my life I’m engaged in “story-telling” to others and myself? What if I spent more time living my life, being in it, rather than in the stories, how much “richer” might my life be?
I invite you to make the same observations and queries in your life.
Also, in relation to today’s photos. Is there one you prefer over the other? For me, it’s the upper photo. It feels framed and anchored by the dark shapes of the boardwalk and support.
Do you prefer the frames and anchors in your life are are you more comfortable an unconstrained space as seen in the second, albeit it does end at the tops and sides of the picture?
Remember to have fun with the queries. As always your thoughts are appreciated in the COMMENTS section below.
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{ 10 comments… read them below or add one }
Thats a lovely picture! I had forgotten about your blog, I will remember to check in frequently as your photos are just beautiful.
Jane
ps my blog is pretty basic, not much on it yet, but will add more this winter.
Thanks, Jane. Appreciate your stopping in here and your kind comments.
You, too, have great photos. I look forward to seeing what you come up with on your blog.
Hi Sheila,
My preference tends toward the second free flowing photo. However, the first one has an intense bright spot on the water that grabs my attention. In the second, the yellow light is wider, and a bit more diffused.
As for stories, I think we need them. We can still live life in the moment and still embrace story-telling. Our mind dictates stories if we don’t select them ourselves.
Starshine and stories,
Marifran
Thanks, Marifran. I appreciate your comments on each of the photos and I’m smiling at your statement on our mind dictating stories if we don’t select them.
Love both of these photos for different reasons. The 2nd one is so shimmering – the light is the important feature. The first one, as you stated, feels more anchored by the boardwalk pilings. Great shots again, Sheila!
Thanks, Debii, for sharing your experience of the photos and for the acknowledgment.
Hi Sheila,
I also like both of the photos. For me the second one is more intimate. You can almost reach out and touch all of the things in it. Whereas in the first one you are so far removed from all of the little islands that I feel like more of an on-looker than part of the photo.
As for the stories, I think that they are important. In telling a story we are able to re-live those moments and to share them with others.
I enjoy hearing what you were thinking when you took a photo. For example I remember an issue from a while back when you were looking for the head of a lion or tiger in the wood. That was fun. It was like being on the adventure with you.
I think that you should do what you are drawn to do.
Sarah
Thanks so much, Sarah, for both the sharing of your experiences wit each of the photos and for your comments on “stories”. The one your referenced was the lion on the boardwalk.
It is very easy to revisit the photos and stories by doing a SEARCH on the blog – box on upper right – Every post that has “lion” in it will come up.
I love that you felt you were on an adventure with me. Usually the stories come up after the fact, I think.
Hi Sheila,
Your pictures are lovely. It’s been awhile hasn’t it?
I loved the second picture more because it left me free to create that location to be anywhere.
I believe that words are very powerful. That being true… there are times for words and times for silence. Whatever you do just honor your spirit.
Take care!
Novella
How great to hear from you, Novella. Yes, it’s been a while, probably well over a year and a half!
I appreciate your acknowledgment, your sharing and good wishes.