click to enlarge

This is the time of year when we begin to shift away from the vibrant colors of the green growing season. The riotous colors of summer have had their day and now the parties’ over. As you look around it may be difficult to spot beauty, the colors are muted and understated, the background support of the greenery is gone and things stand on their own. You begin to see shapes and textures in a way that wasn’t apparent before. You have to look closer and with a different eye, if you will, to see the beauty that exists when the season begins to prepare itself for the long winter sleep.

I have long appreciated the Japanese aesthetics and view of the individual as opposed to the many, in finding beauty. According to the western take on Japanese aesthetics, “the Japanese aesthetic is a set of ancient ideals that include wabi (transient and stark beauty), sabi (the beauty of natural patina and aging), and yūgen (profound grace and subtlety)”. At least that’s how the bright folks over at Wikipedia see it. That description works for me too.

Many times when my mind needs clearing I will go out and look for this kind of image. The time it takes to find it and get my mind aligned with the calmness needed to see the perfect combination that is the melding of the transient, stark beauty with the natural patina and aging, transports me from a dark place to one filled with light. It is very cheap therapy.

To some this image will look like a picture of some weeds and to them I say “You’re right, but what beautifully exquisite weeds.”  To you I say “Take it for whatever value it provides.” and I hope it provides you with some peace and tranquility if that is what you need.