Imbued With Wonder (more Refugia Faith)
Goodness this book is good. Refugia Faith by Debra Rienstra. Here’s what I read on Monday morning:
In this time of transition, one of the things that needs to die is our alienation from the more-than-human world. I wonder if relinquishing our alienation requires not only adult savvy and reeducation but also a return to that childlike spirit, where everything in the universe is imbued with wonder.1
A return to that childlike spirit, where everything in the universe if imbued with wonder. Mmmm...so rich.
In that spirit, here are a few images that drew out that sense of wonder for me from Saturday morning (black and whites) and then Monday morning (color). I also realized while walking at the lake that I will need to say goodbye to a long time “friend.” (don’t worry, this isn’t a living creature, but it has spoken to my soul). And then there’s the usual Scout photo plus a bonus at the end.
Saturday Morning
There was something to shifting to black and white in these. Black and white brings out details in such a unique and wondrous way.
Monday Morning
I got a text just before bed on Sunday night that got me super excited for the next morning. Dense Fog Warning. Oh yes…I love me a foggy morning. I love the mystery and the wonder that a highly foggy morning can bring.
Saying Goodbye
If you noticed something different about the bench in two of those photos, you see what I mean. One of “my benches” is broken and looks like it likely will not be coming back. As I was walking, I noticed that the seating portion of the bench had been broken off and the back looked like it had gotten somehow twisted. Maybe from one too many times being underwater, maybe from the ice and thaw, or maybe from some people who were messing around. Regardless, it is broken. I know it was just made of wood and stone but I have photographed this bench so many times and it has given me so many unique wonder-imbued moments. I hope Great Parks will put a new bench back there but still…I am grateful for all the moments that this bench gave. Here’s possibly my favorite of all my photos of it (from February of 2021)
My Black History Book Recommendation
Writing My Wrongs: Life, Death, and Redemption in an American Prison by Shaka Senghor - Here’s a brief description of the book - A portrait of life in the shadow of poverty, violence, and fear; an unforgettable story of redemption; and a compelling witness to our country’s need for rethinking its approach to crime, prison, and the men and women sent there. This book helps to give an insight into the reality of life for too many. It digs deep into the realities of the effects of poverty, of the brutality of our prison system, but also for what can happen even in the midst.
Your Scout Pic of the Day
Actually one of Scout and one from our daily Thoughts of Dog calendar. I texted the Scout photo to our family group with the message “who knew that Scout was an elf.” This is a bit of an obscure reference to a scene in the Fellowship of the Rings film for those who aren’t quite sure of the connection.
This page from our daily calendar I think was written just for me and Scout.
Grace, Peace, Love, Hope, and Joy,
Ed
Rienstra, Debra. Refugia Faith: Seeking Hidden Shelters, Ordinary Wonders, and the Healing of the Earth (p. 58). Kindle Edition.
Absolutely stunning photos, reflections. Yes to awe and wonder every day. Playing helps 🌻
Grace peace love hope and joy 💕