Things to Do

When I go to museums, I find myself taking pictures of small portions of the works, looking at brush strokes, colors and shapes.  I do this partly because there is no point in taking a picture of the entire piece:  I don't have the proper equipment or lighting to do that, and there are plenty of reproductions out there anyway.  So, I want to record what I noticed:  the folds of the dresses, the styles of the shoes, the movement of water, the jumping dog, the droplet of water on the perfectly rendered flower petal.  When I'm looking at modern art, it's all about the patterns and colors.  I don't record the actual artist or title or location, so I find myself fumbling when I post the pictures to Facebook and friends say "Turner?  Cezanne?" Because that's so beside the point, isn't it? Although, it is interesting when people recognize a painting or artist from a tiny bit: clearly I'm not the only person to absorb the details.

I do wish I had the time and ability to sit and draw what I'm noticing, both in the museums and in the gardens and streets.  But, I'm blessed that technology allows me to process the photographs and share what I see. With time, I start finding patterns. Usually, the patterns are somewhat mundane. I have Facebook albums titled yellow and feet, for example.  Still, even these categories have led me to the realization that I am using these images as a form of meditation, of learning about myself and focusing my thoughts in the here and now.  I am drawn to images that have certain shapes and colors, yes, but I also am drawn to the hidden narrative, a narrative that I suspect only I am hearing.  After visiting the Octavia E Butler exhibit at the Huntington Library, I decided that I walk away with a manifesto of sorts, my own affirmations.  Only, instead of affirming that I will create something or succeed in various endeavors, I am affirming that the world is full of amazing things to experience.  I don't notice them every day, but it's good to try.  It is, in fact what slow travel and mindfulness are all about. 

So, I made a tiny list of experiential affirmations, found images to illustrate them, and made my own motivational pictures.  I want to experience with all senses:  feeling, tasting, touching, smelling, hearing, and of course seeing.  I want to experience these things alone and in community.  I want each day to matter.  Herewith, my list:  soak in the tub, drink some tea, eat something amazing, smell the flowers, watch the sun set, have a drink, make music with friends, play a game, do a dance, take a stance, contemplate the heavens, aspire.