As I look up at what surrounds me, I’m inspired by the perfection of the world. The few remaining leaves with their golden sheen,the plump raindrops that steadily nourish the earth and the winter wind that sweeps clean the fallen debris making way for renewal.
I am reminded of stories of the Hindu God Shiva, also known as the destroyer. Brahma is the creator, Vishnu, the preserver and Shiva is the dissolving force in life, which is necessary in order to create. The energy of Shiva is at work at this time of year…destroying in order to create new life next spring.
I found this beautiful “manifesto” of life at Renee’s Circling My Head, via Something.
To live content with small means,
To seek elegance rather than luxury, and refinement rather than fashion,
To be worthy, not respectable,
And wealthy, not rich,
To study hard, think quietly, talk gently, act frankly,
To listen to stars and birds, to babes and sages, with open heart,
To bear all cheerfully, do all bravely,
Await occasions, hurry never,
In a word, to let the spiritual, unbidden and unconscious,
Grow up through the common; this is to be my symphony.
William Henry Channing: My Symphony
The theme this week at Lens.us.together is “Looking Up” and was suggested by Elk at Red or Gray. Thanks Elk!
Thank you so much for stopping by today,
Play well and be kind to one another.
Gorgeous image, and thank you for sharing this manifesto. More wonderful words to clip and add to my file.
Posted by: Tess | 11/15/2009 at 10:24 AM
What a beautiful autumn image! I absolutely love the manifesto and I didn't know that about the Indian gods, makes me want to check out more about Hinduism :)
Posted by: Dorit | 11/15/2009 at 12:37 PM
Oh wow this is so beautiful! Thank you for sharing this and the manifesto today...so uplifting!
Posted by: Caroline | 11/15/2009 at 02:20 PM
A beautiful image to go with such meaningful words, Kate. Thanks for sharing the manifesto ~
Posted by: Serena | 11/15/2009 at 02:45 PM
Kate thank you for the bridge which leads me here!
I was touched by your words left at my blog and am moved by this post!
May "Shiva" be at work on my behalf and "the winter wind" make way for my own personal renewal...on my own healing path..NG
Posted by: naturegirl | 11/15/2009 at 07:17 PM
What a good theme - looking up! And you pay tribute so nicely to Shiva! Well done!!
Posted by: martie | 11/15/2009 at 10:39 PM
Really beautiful. I love the theme today!!
Posted by: Positively Present | 11/16/2009 at 10:10 AM