Fuzzy Outlines

While walking this evening along the old Waipari rd where it cuts through the bush above the maungarata stream we discussed fuzzy outlines. If you look along the edge of a pine forest you will note the myriad of tiny needles at the ends of the many branches create a fuzzy outline, not a clear cut high definition delineation between the individual trees or even the forest and the surrounding views. This is what life looks like.

Too often we are tempted to define things; morals, behaviours, character traits etc by clear definitions of right or wrong good or bad. But in doing so we focus on the details-the individual pine needles- and loose the concept of the oneness and inclusiveness of all life. Our views and judgements become narrow and we, by the very act of defining become harsh and unloving, intolerant of the fuzzy unclear boundaries that exist in every aspect of our world.

It does us good to walk in the evening light amidst the ill-defined outlines of the bush and consider that not everything we think is so, actually is. Take a look at the photo above, it shows very clearly that there can be many interpretations of the 'stuff' that forms our lives and to say that this or that is always right or always wrong will inevitably lead to division and strife within our society.

Try looking at your world today with new eyes and allow for fuzzy outlines, you may discover a peace within your self and your relationships that may be new to you.

You can order my poetry book by contacting me, or there is currently a Trademe NZ auction happening where I will write a poem for you for whoever you want or for a special occasion.

Chickens

This seems like a great time to introduce everyone who lives at Mystic Hills..we have quite a collection here of skin, fur , fluff and feathers. Today was an especially happy day as we are finally getting 3 eggs a day from our little brood of chickens. This is after all our attempts to keep them warm during winter with draped covers...sprinkling of cayenne pepper in the drinking water and an attempt to introduce positive energy around the coop with the string of Tibetan prayer flags from the little wooden coop.Greg is not convinced as yet that this will work. We have at the moment 5 hens and a Rooster. There is Chookie , Bessie, Goldie and of course Elvis the rooster. The other two hens are still awaiting inspiration for their names.

Keeping chickens is something of a dream come true for me , having grown up in a big city,living in apartment blocks. There is something very soulful and comforting about the gentle clucking of the chickens in our yard, scratching and scuttling about. Greg once commented that chickens "live in the moment". Indeed watching any one of them it becomes so apparent how true this is. The joy of a worm found, a new spot to scratch or even a game of chase about the yard. Life lived fully and simply- and yet we would tend to think them simple minded. Perhaps we need to ponder then if the essence of life is to find "simple mindedness" in what we do.....for the search and discovery of such a way of living brings with it such contentment. Ask any of my happy chickens.

Poetry party.

Yesterday, the 25th July, We attended a Poetry party in Hamiltons Garden place. This was a well attended event in beautiful weather and I (Greg) was able to share two poems. Most people shared only one with the exceptions of the invited V.I.Ps who got to share two or more. Anyway I went as two different people and performed twice. The last poem I performed went down extremely well with the audience. Here is the photo:

We came home, picking up an old bath on the way and setting it up in the garden we lit a fire under it and soaked under a starlit sky looking down on the town lights way out on the plain to end a near perfect day.