A Listening Heart

 

"Eyes see only light, ears hear only sound, but a listening heart perceives meaning."

 David Steindl-Rast

In my photo of the sunset, a straight beam of vibrant orange light extends from the sun, reaching out towards the clouds and gently caressing the earth. In this moment, the sun becomes a bridge connecting the boundless sky with the grounding presence of the land.

Time stands still as I take a deep breath, allowing the resounding grace of the merging sky, light, and earth to resonate within my own "listening heart." With each exhale, a profound sense of tranquility fills me.

David Steindl-Rast's quote reminds us to cultivate a listening heart that transcends the limitations of our senses, allowing us to focus, contemplate, and explore the deep joys of life.

Indeed. Isn't there much more to life than what meets the eye? With empathy and an open spirit, we embark on a transformative journey of discovery and understanding. As we listen with our hearts, we uncover profound connections, nuances, and the hidden wisdom that swirls beneath and above the surface.

Isn't this compassionate connection the true essence and significance of our relationships?

May your path continue to be adorned with the discovery of profound beauty and love. May your listening heart guide you!

With an abundance of aloha,

@mscator ☀️

♥ My Society6 Art Gallery \(‾◡◝ )/  

Masterpieces of Creation

"Very few people understand the heart. In truth, your heart is one of the masterpieces of creation. It is a phenomenal instrument." 

Michael Singer, The Untethered Soul 💓 

Oh, my roaring heart!

On my way home from work today, the clouds blessed the sky with exquisite beauty, evoking an exhilarating rhythm within my chest and leaving me breathless. Overwhelmed by the desire for more, I paused at Vulcan Park to seize this photo of the clouds dancing with the afternoon Birmingham skyline. 

♥ My Society6 Art Gallery \(‾◡◝ )/ 

 

When You Are Free

"Sometimes you’ve got to let everything go – purge yourself. If you are unhappy with anything – whatever is bringing you down – get rid of it. Because you will find that when you are free, your true creativity, your true self comes out." 

Tina Turner 

I was saddened by the news of singer Tina Turner’s death. She was a role model of courage, enthusiasm, and resilience! With her captivating style, she achieved success by breaking free from the things that oppressed her and pursuing her true self, purpose, and potential.

What a powerhouse voice, amazing dance moves, and mesmerizing performer! 

"When you are free," she said. I will always remember her version of Proud Mary, an epic funk tribute to freedom. Her self-empowering spirit sparks creativity and inspires us to stay true to and discover our heartfelt desires.

♥ My Society6 Art Gallery \(‾◡◝ )/ 

Pause

My sweet rose bush, bathed in the sun's new light.

Clouds moving, changing, aglow with red & sky.

"The principle of art is to pause, not bypass."

~ Jerzy Kosinski

Welcome, my friend. Here is my invitation, inspired by what I've learned from watching the sunrise and nurturing the blossoms in my garden: Come, open your heart, and engage with life at a deeper level. Immerse yourself in what surrounds you, be open to surprises, and create your own creative impact.

Slow down. Allow the symphony of life to serenade you, playing its harmonious melody with unwavering grace. Dance with the sun, spreading golden magic everywhere. Let the intoxicating fragrances of flowers fill your heart, awakening your senses, and unveiling new perspectives. You are a vital part of what is unfolding!

Pause. Take five. Are Paul Desmond's sax notes rustling the leaves? Are those diamonds or tears on the new buds? Can you trust and discover the abundant joy that eagerly awaits you? 

Joy is there, I promise.

In this precious pause, delve into the depths of your innermost soul. As Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently expressed, "Pretty is something you're born with. But beautiful, that's an equal opportunity adjective." True beauty encompasses qualities such as kindness and compassion, which can be nurtured and honed by anyone.

For it is within the stillness of this very moment that countless opportunities arise—opportunities to experience, to find inspiration, and to revel in the sheer marvel of existence. With each passing moment, cultivate a profound, humming, and vibrant garden of interconnectedness, where you can root yourself, entwined with the earth, the sky, and the souls of others.

So, dear friend, take this invitation and embark on your journey of mindful appreciation. Embrace the grandeur and delicacy of the world, and lovingly cultivate the ever-expanding garden of your own existence!

♥ My Society6 Art Gallery \(‾◡◝ )/