“It was all so far away—the country had a quiet, untouched feel, and I could work as I pleased–”

Georgia O’Keeffe.

“When suffering arises, the first thing to do is to stop, follow our breathing, and acknowledge it. Don’t try to deny uncomfortable emotions or push them down.”

Breathing in, I know suffering is there.

Breathing out, I say hello to my suffering.

— Thich Nhat Hanh

Today, I am continuously experimenting with my new 100 mm lens. I like it immensely and have a few new flowers to experiment with. You are welcome to come and see.

I admit to slipping into a dark place today. I’m not looking for an argument or self-pity. I feel blue, and the things that lift me are Maria,  my flower photography, my blog, Zip or Zinnia hanging out with me, and my work at the Food Pantry, which gives me an incredible feeling of joy, meaning, and purpose.

The Mansion finally asked me if I would return to teach my meditation class. It was hard to say no, but I said I’d consider it. I miss those people very much, but I called and said no today. I am done with it. They just waited too long. I’ve filled that space in my heart and can’t be comfortable there.

Zinnia hangs out with me all day in my office; Zip hangs out with me when I take photos in the sunlight.

Meditation and silence will heal me.