Reflections

Marya Mannes, noted essayist, in an essay "How Do You Stay Human?" - Lithopinion Volume 4, number I, wrote: There is no question in my mind, however, that continuous public exposure, though it may make you a "personality," can diminish you as a person. To be a willing accomplice to the invasion of your own privacy puts a low price on its worth. The creative processes are, or should be, essentially secret, and although naked flesh is now an open commodity, the naked spirit should have sanctuary.

For myself I have found this sanctuary to a large extent in the natural world. I am convinced that one of the main sources of our growing depersonalization is our divorce from the earth and sea, the living planet which gave us life. And anyone who does not have periodic contact with the tree, the wave, the rock, the root, the immeasurable sky, has lost his essential being. Flesh, blood, mind and spirit can find unity only in this marriage. And because this marriage has been celebrated by all the great artists who ever lived, only in their work. The key to humanity is theirs. And, because of them and the creation of this universe, yours.

The aesthetic sense exists in all human beings. Some are more sensitive than others depending on related circumstances, environment and vision. Some see only the mountains, seas and clouds. Some see the beauty of trees, gardens and animals.

The appreciation of beauty is a most rewarding and soul satisfying source of happiness, once we discover her abodes. They are everywhere...in the starlit heavens, in the sunrise and sunset, in the fury of a winter storm, and in the tranquil serenity of a hidden pool alive with graceful reeds, watercress and dragonflies. Dragonflies? Look closely on the straightest reeds off right center. In photography we learn to use a "close-up" lens for an eyeball-to-eyeball exposure. Applying this bit of knowledge to our quest for universal understanding, we realize that only through exposure can we develop an awareness for the grandeur of little things and the value of basics. Thus we learn to understand the importance of the individual and his place in the overall composition of the. masterpiece - Creation.