So the other night I was driving through east Texas (which by the way is SO much better than west Texas) when I noticed a huge, beautiful orange sphere glowing low on the horizon. At first I didn't know what exactly it was until I realized that I was looking at one of the coolest (nearly full) moons I have ever seen! Since I was driving east I was fortunate to have a great view of the moon as it worked its way ever higher into the night sky. While the moon slowly faded from orange into yellow and then it's usual white color, I couldn't help but feel a sense of amazement as I watched the moon move across the sky and light up the road before me.
Personally I take great pleasure in watching the moon "change" as it rotates around the Earth throughout the lunar cycle, and I encourage everyone to do so as well. I feel it is especially important to pay attention to the moon's phases (note the lunar chart to the right) because the moon directly impacts each one of us on the individual level. Whether one believes in Astrology or not, there is no denying physics. Just as the moon affects the tides and bodies of water (as people in Charleston are well aware), it also effects the human body - which is about 60% water. One's feelings, moods, thoughts and energy are all influenced by the moon and it's position in the universe at any given time. Take note of how your body changes over the course of a lunar month and start to notice how various things in the universe are all connected. It's a great feeling to see the connections that exist and feel a greater sense of one's presence in the world around us.
This beautiful sight soon led to a conversation between my brother and I about how exactly the phases of the moon come to be and what exactly is going on in the mysterious world of "Space". I mean, how did that rocky orb in the sky get stuck in sync with this planet and why does it all work the way it does? Just think, any small number of tiny changes during the creation of the Universe could totally have eliminated the possibility for life on Earth. Instead, we are fortunate to have this wonderful, amazing planet filled with beauty and life for everyone to enjoy. I just hope there are more people who have the awareness to realize just how lucky we are to have Earth as she is, and eventually everyone will start treating our home with more respect.
Why does this life all exist? I'm not exactly sure, but while the super smart physicist try to figure this all out, I'll just relax in peace and enjoy the wonders of the universe as they reveal themselves each day. It is a great feeling to accept the mysteries of life for what they are, and live in peace without knowing the answers to life's big questions. There is so much beauty and positive energy to embrace in life that I am content to live without knowing the "whys" of it all. The only thing that matters to me is that the greatness in nature and life does exist, and that I am able to enjoy it on a daily basis. Is life really so complex that there has to be some grand purpose to it all? Or is the "purpose" really to embrace each day, to truly live each day, and enjoy that which is around (and in) us all?
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
77 Cypress
Well, after many weeks of anticipation, today was the day I finally closed on the contract to buy my first house. From the moment I walked through the house, I had good feelings about the property. Even better, I had wonderful visions of what the house would look like when it was all fixed up again. While the house needs a lot of work, this is exactly what I want to do in life right now and I truly look forward to the months ahead.
As for the house, it was built sometime in the 1930s and fits wonderfully into the historic character of many Charleston neighborhoods. I love the architectural style of the home and the layout of the rooms is very comfortable. The front porch has an inviting feel to it and I expect to spend many evenings relaxing on it in a porch swing. Even better though is the wonderful backyard with a beautiful pecan tree and plenty of room for Riley (and his friends) to run around. Once I add a screened porch and a new deck, I will be living out there and enjoying nature as much as possible.
It is my intention to restore the love, character and good vibes this home once had - and to do so in a very sustainable manner. I plan to keep or reuse as much as the original materials as I can, and to recycle/donate those things I no longer desire. All new construction will embrace sustainable materials and practices, and I aim to bring as much of the natural world outside into the home. I will try to update the blog frequently with progress reports on the house, so check back often. In the mean time, here are some pictures of the house as of today. Peace and love on to all on this wonderful day!
Saturday, March 20, 2010
A season to reflect upon
With today being the first day of Spring (yea!) I feel it is an important time to reflect on how each of us also change with the seasons. For many plants and animals, Winter is a time for dormancy - a time when the pace of life slows down and the Being goes into survival mode. This is no different for people, who spend more time indoors as they avoid the cold/wet/icy weather - weather that seems to have been unfavorably persistent in sticking around for longer than usual this past Winter.
For many in Charleston, Winter is a time when work (and income) slows down due to the lack of tourism. Numerous friends have referenced how they are just "trying to survive" as they hole up at home with television, movies, video games and cheap booze. Perhaps they may even be suffering from SAD, a condition brought to my attention and discussed by a good friend (thanks Caitlin). Well, if this weekend is any indication, people have embraced the Spring season with open arms as they flood Marion Square with their beach towels and sunblock, and take to the streets of downtown. I already see more tourists in town and an increasing number of friends are working more hours or finding new places of employment.
While it is good to be physically active again and enjoying the warmer weather, I think everyone should reflect on the mental/emotional changes going on in life too. Just as Spring is a time for new life and growth in the phyiscal world, I think there is much to be said about such changes in the non-physical world as well. What ideas, hopes, dreams, intentions would you like to see fulfilled in the coming months? What budding thoughts do you want to give life to and see grow into something more? Reflect on these and then nourish them until they become as full of life as any tree or flower you see blooming outside.
Just as animals come out of hibernation and find themselves new homes (often for their newly expanded family), I also think we too need to spend some time focusing on the home. Sure, we may not be moving into a new place or adding more family members, but I still feel it is important to provide a nice, healthy environment in which to live. I believe this also allows our new ideas and intentions the proper place to flourish and succeed. The phrase "Spring cleaning" is often used around this time of year, and I feel this is due to a very natural part of our Being - a part that many of us may not even realize is speaking to us from deep within. As one "cleans up" after the doldrums of winter, do so not just in the physical sense but in your mental/emotional life as well. Rid yourself of the negative energy that restricts the flow of life, and instead flood yourself with positive energy that encourages growth.
While the sunshine and warmth may not be here every day yet (or even at all for some), embrace each day of the Spring season. Life needs both sunshine and rain to grow, so accept any rainy days for the cleansing nourishment the rain brings, and appreciate it for it's own beauty and joys. Besides, these sunny days feel so much better after "suffering" through a day or two of grey, cloudy skies. As the weather gets nicer though, I encourage everyone to spend as much time as possible outside in the natural world.
While the pleasures of a nice hike, a weekend camping, a day at the beach or a picnic in the park are certainly enjoyable, I understand they may not easily fit into the busy schedules so many of us have created. If nothing else, at least try to spend more time walking places (all dog owners know your dog would love to go on more walks) or, if it's "too far," get on the bike. Spend time at a local farmer's market rather than a local grocery store; sit down outside your local coffee shop (Starbucks is not local by the way, even if you live in Seattle) to enjoy the outdoors; eat more home-cooked meals on the back patio or deck if you can.
Whatever you decide to do, do more of it outside and connect with the natural world. Remember, the natural world should not "surround us" since we are part of it and should be immersed in it. And as you spend more time within nature, notice how the "natural" plants and animals change as we move more into the Spring season and closer to summer. See if you can find relationships about what they do, how they change, what effects the changing of seasons have on them - and how it is all very similar to each of us as well.
For many in Charleston, Winter is a time when work (and income) slows down due to the lack of tourism. Numerous friends have referenced how they are just "trying to survive" as they hole up at home with television, movies, video games and cheap booze. Perhaps they may even be suffering from SAD, a condition brought to my attention and discussed by a good friend (thanks Caitlin). Well, if this weekend is any indication, people have embraced the Spring season with open arms as they flood Marion Square with their beach towels and sunblock, and take to the streets of downtown. I already see more tourists in town and an increasing number of friends are working more hours or finding new places of employment.
While it is good to be physically active again and enjoying the warmer weather, I think everyone should reflect on the mental/emotional changes going on in life too. Just as Spring is a time for new life and growth in the phyiscal world, I think there is much to be said about such changes in the non-physical world as well. What ideas, hopes, dreams, intentions would you like to see fulfilled in the coming months? What budding thoughts do you want to give life to and see grow into something more? Reflect on these and then nourish them until they become as full of life as any tree or flower you see blooming outside.
Just as animals come out of hibernation and find themselves new homes (often for their newly expanded family), I also think we too need to spend some time focusing on the home. Sure, we may not be moving into a new place or adding more family members, but I still feel it is important to provide a nice, healthy environment in which to live. I believe this also allows our new ideas and intentions the proper place to flourish and succeed. The phrase "Spring cleaning" is often used around this time of year, and I feel this is due to a very natural part of our Being - a part that many of us may not even realize is speaking to us from deep within. As one "cleans up" after the doldrums of winter, do so not just in the physical sense but in your mental/emotional life as well. Rid yourself of the negative energy that restricts the flow of life, and instead flood yourself with positive energy that encourages growth.
While the sunshine and warmth may not be here every day yet (or even at all for some), embrace each day of the Spring season. Life needs both sunshine and rain to grow, so accept any rainy days for the cleansing nourishment the rain brings, and appreciate it for it's own beauty and joys. Besides, these sunny days feel so much better after "suffering" through a day or two of grey, cloudy skies. As the weather gets nicer though, I encourage everyone to spend as much time as possible outside in the natural world.
While the pleasures of a nice hike, a weekend camping, a day at the beach or a picnic in the park are certainly enjoyable, I understand they may not easily fit into the busy schedules so many of us have created. If nothing else, at least try to spend more time walking places (all dog owners know your dog would love to go on more walks) or, if it's "too far," get on the bike. Spend time at a local farmer's market rather than a local grocery store; sit down outside your local coffee shop (Starbucks is not local by the way, even if you live in Seattle) to enjoy the outdoors; eat more home-cooked meals on the back patio or deck if you can.
Whatever you decide to do, do more of it outside and connect with the natural world. Remember, the natural world should not "surround us" since we are part of it and should be immersed in it. And as you spend more time within nature, notice how the "natural" plants and animals change as we move more into the Spring season and closer to summer. See if you can find relationships about what they do, how they change, what effects the changing of seasons have on them - and how it is all very similar to each of us as well.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
What's in a name?
I wanted to explain a bit about the name I have given my blog, Naturally Phine. In short, I am inspired by two things that I feel have far reaching implications and importance in life - Nature and the Greek letter phi, φ (which represents the Golden Ratio).
Regarding nature, I think it is very important for each one of us to remain in contact with the natural world around us all. Nature is in our DNA and as human beings we too are creatures of the "natural" world just like any other plant, animal, element or form of energy. We must understand and respect the greatness of Mother Nature, and cherish her for providing all of the life giving necessities we truly need to enjoy this beautiful world.
While there are many wonderful creations and advancements made "unnaturally" by the hands of man, I feel it important that everyone still maintain a connection with the natural world. Nature is what sustains life and enables us all to live. As such, we must continue to stay connected to nature because the powers of the natural world are uniquely nourishing to the individual Being. People need to embrace nature and not just surround themselves with the creations by man. I truly believe that the more people surround themselves with nature, the better they will feel and enjoy living.
As for the Golden Ratio, phi, I feel it is a wonderful number/idea that has many interesting applications and properties. To me, the Golden Ratio is a very naturally number that appears to fit into the universe quite nicely. It is clearly present in life through many different forms and I believe it is a number that needs to be embraced for it's unique qualities. I believe that if things are created in respect to the Golden Ratio then they will be turn out well - they will be fine (phine).
It is my intention that living a life aware of and respectful to both nature and phi will be good to me and provide all that I could hope for. There are endless amounts of love, happiness, peace, kindness, pleasure and fun for all of us to enjoy - we just need to open ourselves up to bringing them into our lives. I hope to share with others how I feel everyone can live a life that is better than anything they currently know. Once we live each day full of such wonderful feelings, we will be living a life that is Naturally Phine.
Regarding nature, I think it is very important for each one of us to remain in contact with the natural world around us all. Nature is in our DNA and as human beings we too are creatures of the "natural" world just like any other plant, animal, element or form of energy. We must understand and respect the greatness of Mother Nature, and cherish her for providing all of the life giving necessities we truly need to enjoy this beautiful world.
While there are many wonderful creations and advancements made "unnaturally" by the hands of man, I feel it important that everyone still maintain a connection with the natural world. Nature is what sustains life and enables us all to live. As such, we must continue to stay connected to nature because the powers of the natural world are uniquely nourishing to the individual Being. People need to embrace nature and not just surround themselves with the creations by man. I truly believe that the more people surround themselves with nature, the better they will feel and enjoy living.
As for the Golden Ratio, phi, I feel it is a wonderful number/idea that has many interesting applications and properties. To me, the Golden Ratio is a very naturally number that appears to fit into the universe quite nicely. It is clearly present in life through many different forms and I believe it is a number that needs to be embraced for it's unique qualities. I believe that if things are created in respect to the Golden Ratio then they will be turn out well - they will be fine (phine).
It is my intention that living a life aware of and respectful to both nature and phi will be good to me and provide all that I could hope for. There are endless amounts of love, happiness, peace, kindness, pleasure and fun for all of us to enjoy - we just need to open ourselves up to bringing them into our lives. I hope to share with others how I feel everyone can live a life that is better than anything they currently know. Once we live each day full of such wonderful feelings, we will be living a life that is Naturally Phine.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Why Am I Here?
Greetings to all of you who have come to my (first) blog. It is my intention that this blog be a place to share thoughts, updates, insights and meaningful information with others. Do what you will with what I provide, but if nothing else, at least give some of your own thought to what you find here. Also, I hope that everyone who comes to view this page will become more aware and thoughtful about the choices made in life. This includes choices that each one of you make as individuals as well as the choices made by others. Choices are ultimately what determine the future, so think about the choices you make now and if they are helping to create the future you want later.
I believe we all have the ability to make decisions in life, however, often times we are not always presented with the options we would like to choose from. Regardless, we still must make choices on a daily basis in order to navigate through life. Given the interconnectedness of the universe, often times choices made by other people directly impact us on the individual level as well. While you may not like the choice(s) the other person made, there is nothing you can do about changing that instant in time. However, from that point forward, you can decide what you want to do next. Do you want to let someone else's choices continue to affect your life, you future? Do you want to just accept things as they are, even if things are bad? Or do you want to embrace the fact that you get to decide what to do next? Everyone has the ability to create the future they want - and this is done through choices.
One choice I have made is to create this blog as a place for me to share the decisions I make in life. While some of my choices may not be accepted by all, I feel the most important aspect is that I at least accept responsibility for the choices made. I encourage others to respond with their own personal thoughts and insights as well, so long as each one also owns their decisions in life. Accept responsibility for what is yours, yet at the same time, do not accept responsibility for that which you have no control. Each one of us can only live the life that we are afforded as individuals, so do what you can to make your life exactly what you want it to be.
Why am I here? I am here because I want to share. Perhaps if I'm fortunate, you will embrace what I'm providing and share it with others as well. Ultimately though, what you do with my offerings is up to you - just remember, the choice is yours.
I believe we all have the ability to make decisions in life, however, often times we are not always presented with the options we would like to choose from. Regardless, we still must make choices on a daily basis in order to navigate through life. Given the interconnectedness of the universe, often times choices made by other people directly impact us on the individual level as well. While you may not like the choice(s) the other person made, there is nothing you can do about changing that instant in time. However, from that point forward, you can decide what you want to do next. Do you want to let someone else's choices continue to affect your life, you future? Do you want to just accept things as they are, even if things are bad? Or do you want to embrace the fact that you get to decide what to do next? Everyone has the ability to create the future they want - and this is done through choices.
One choice I have made is to create this blog as a place for me to share the decisions I make in life. While some of my choices may not be accepted by all, I feel the most important aspect is that I at least accept responsibility for the choices made. I encourage others to respond with their own personal thoughts and insights as well, so long as each one also owns their decisions in life. Accept responsibility for what is yours, yet at the same time, do not accept responsibility for that which you have no control. Each one of us can only live the life that we are afforded as individuals, so do what you can to make your life exactly what you want it to be.
Why am I here? I am here because I want to share. Perhaps if I'm fortunate, you will embrace what I'm providing and share it with others as well. Ultimately though, what you do with my offerings is up to you - just remember, the choice is yours.
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