For the sake of content I am posting here the namesake of this blog. It comes from the title of a post on the Ojai Valley News blog that is dear to my heart. It also marks my entrance into the world of blog. Below is the original content…
We all have encountered moments categorized as ‘coincidence’, or ‘fate’, or some other attributable definition that brings reason to the moment. Too often we either dismiss the occurrence out of hand, or rely on the universal machinery of space and time to bring us into alignment with another special moment. I have learned that the old Boy Scout motto, “Be Prepared,” are words so wise they may have been etched in some ancient stone by divine hands. We have the ability in our loves to supercharge these little soul engines of ours, enhancing and increasing our experiences here. I would like to propose an adage to the idea that we grow old when we stop dreaming: we grow tired when we are no longer ready.
Be always ready for the grand adventure of life.
Two quick stories…
Last year (2005), I was sheltering my lawn from the angry August rays with water when suddenly I had the strong urge to go to Libbey Park. “Okay, I guess, lets go!” I told myself. With the words, “never leave your camera” mantras of so many mentors ringing in my ears, I drove downtown. Knowing nothing of why I was there, I figured I would bring my tripod with me and set off for the fountain. When I came around the corner, a full moon was waiting for me, perfectly poised between two trees and aligned with our little fountain. This piece is called Providence.
Second: I attended a Holiday Party recently, one in which the only thing I wanted to do was assimilate into the atmosphere of socially lubricated bliss and forget all the work that centers around this time. However, I brought my camera, knowing that if something ‘cool’ happened, I must be prepared to engage the moment. Halfway through the evening, a troop of fire dancers preformed, and by the graces of ‘fate’ I came away with another exciting image.
I am no great sage, nor even a great photographer, but I am this; a student of life, and I invite you to embrace life for what it is, your grand adventure. Remember to pack light, take only what you need, get plenty of rest, and jump at the OPPORTUNITY!!!