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June 09, 2006
Perspective & Inspiration
Breathing with a deeper sense of calm, I am aware that even a small break from our every day life is of the greatest value. A step away... a new perspective.
As an artist, I know well the advantage of looking at something from another angle.... or at least, I should. It is easy, however, to get caught up in some kind of frantic pace and begin to loose the ability of vision.
I was able to take a ‘mini’ vacation recently, which consisted of six very full days with a close friend, and yes, my mother-in-law, who just happens to be an Anthropologist, which is one among her many other amazing talents.
This trip was her idea, and when she invited me to join her, I was more than willing. As she did all of the driving, I was able to allow myself the shear pleasure of escaping any deadlines or time issues. We just played most of the trip as it came to us, even though there was an initial plan to see these ancient Missions, which we did take in with great enthusiasm and pleasure.
As we both stepped back in our own individual ways to view these beautiful places, we tried to grasp what life was like for these people who lived here so long ago. Her knowledge well surpasses mine on this issue, obviously, so it made for a very interesting educational experience. More than this, I began to sense something that is perhaps far deeper than any knowledge of history could bring, and I feel certain that she sensed this too.
It was a stepping out of my timeline, for a bit. A small piece of someone else’s residual life experience that somehow transferred itself into our realm. Perhaps a spirit in visitation who left their Earthly Life during an epidemic that killed so many nearly 250 years ago. Those would likely be the Indians who lived and worked to make these Missions what they were, and what they have become.
All one has to do is just sit and breathe, taking in the essence of the area. Slow down and pause to hear something, or smell something that might help you travel on the vale between two worlds, even if it is to just get a slight glimpse. You cannot help but come away a bit changed. The perspective has shifted.
I found myself fixed on those people who were buried in some areas now considered sacred merely by their Native American heritage. What is this familiarity I have found? Why are they calling to me, and why am I so comforted by this?
As I continue to explore this part of my being that is so drawn to these people, my art will not escape the influence. Seemingly having a life of it’s own, I let it come through me with pleasure.
I love what I do.
Posted by kay at June 9, 2006 10:52 PM