The Nature of Things
A breeze ripples the lake
Making it move and come alive
A wind dances between the trees
Making them sway joyfully
Nature complements nature
The night makes bloom the Cereus
The dew coats the land like a canopy
In the distance, far from earth
The sun appears as a gem
Rising like a sapphire
Creating wavelets of golden honey
It is guilty of fanfaronade
As it stages a boastful blaze
The birds greet it with songs
Every element of nature
Gives beauty to another
We are the spectators and
Protectors of such beauty
During the time I spend in the park, I spent time standing still, sitting, listening, observing, and thinking. Sometimes, I wouldn’t think at all, but let my surroundings awaken thoughts that I myself could not provoke. I took the suggestion of Mary Oliver- to be still and learn how to be astonished. It was an exercise that took effort, but I believe even Lectio Divina and other class exercises helped prepare me for that moment. Soaking in the beauty and wonder around us is almost a forgotten art. So easily we pass by the moments that give quality to life.
The main idea that inspired the poem I wrote was the attitude of nature. Nature cares for itself, gives life, and beauty to the rest of it. Nothing stands alone. There is a dependency and selflessness about it and how it works. Lessons can be taught just by observing the interdependency of the world around us. It is truly quite astonishing and humbling. This also placed in me a greater sense of responsibility. What is our job as the likeness of God in regards to the Earth? This question arose in me. If nature knows its place and how to take care of itself, how come we cannot meet those standards as well? All the Earth and everything in it has been given to mankind to guard and benefit from. Mary Oliver also spoke about this- the holy stewardship that we should dutifully accomplish.
I also noticed that writing about nature was very fluent once observation was followed thoroughly. Observation is the main key I believe. Trying to compare elements in nature with other elements really brought the descriptions to life- like the sun as a golden sapphire. Also giving objects in nature personalities or attitudes, such as the boastful sun, dancing wind, joyful trees. All these things helped me knit the words together for the poem.
I went to Lake Bonny Park for this assignment, and I stayed there for at least 40 minutes.
3/30/10
3/28/10
The Poems of Mary Oliver
Mary Oliver has taken words and knitted them together beautifully. All of her poems were so enjoyable and hold a lot of truth. Even as she talks about prayer she says, "patch a few words together and don't try to make them elaborate, this isn't a contest but a doorway". Perhaps literature is not just the eloquence of words, but the paths that lead us through doorways of questions and understandings? What is communication after all, but a message that was meant to be heard and understood. Like Jesus said, "he who has ears, let him hear," and as Mary Oliver said, "just pay attention". There seems to be a pattern.
In her poems she writes of spiritual depth, sorrow, prayer, appreciating the nature around us. In class, we were prompted to listen and observe nature. Mary wrote something very inspirational about this idea: "Let me keep my mind on what matters, which is my work, which is mostly standing still and learning to be astonished." The key word in this is LEARNING to be astonished. There is so much around us that is "astonishing" and beautiful, but we have become desensitized to it. It must be a sought after process to learn how to appreciate the amazing things God has placed among us for our enjoyment. The author mentions how important these things are even as religious people. One can see how, indeed, our stewardship of the Earth also reflects our godliness. This is an insightful and valuable lesson... told within a poem.
Although the poems by Mary Oliver were written with so much insight, they were still simple. Simplicity has and will always be beautiful. It catches the light in just the right way. This is how her poems inspire me. There is no need to say more than what is needed. Some of her poems were just life-thoughts she jotted down as she woke up from a dream. It seems as though she lives the life of a poet: reflecting, observing, wondering, questioning...
In her poems she writes of spiritual depth, sorrow, prayer, appreciating the nature around us. In class, we were prompted to listen and observe nature. Mary wrote something very inspirational about this idea: "Let me keep my mind on what matters, which is my work, which is mostly standing still and learning to be astonished." The key word in this is LEARNING to be astonished. There is so much around us that is "astonishing" and beautiful, but we have become desensitized to it. It must be a sought after process to learn how to appreciate the amazing things God has placed among us for our enjoyment. The author mentions how important these things are even as religious people. One can see how, indeed, our stewardship of the Earth also reflects our godliness. This is an insightful and valuable lesson... told within a poem.
Although the poems by Mary Oliver were written with so much insight, they were still simple. Simplicity has and will always be beautiful. It catches the light in just the right way. This is how her poems inspire me. There is no need to say more than what is needed. Some of her poems were just life-thoughts she jotted down as she woke up from a dream. It seems as though she lives the life of a poet: reflecting, observing, wondering, questioning...
3/23/10
The State of The Planet
Although the title, “The State of The Planet” is pretty straight-forward and obvious, the poem in itself is complex and intricate. Robert Hass seems to be taking more of an approach to describing human nature and how we have gotten ourselves into this mess. “It must be a gift of evolution that humans can’t sustain wonder.” He really brings out questions about human character and perhaps our naïve acts that progressively destroy the world.
The author makes much reference to Lucretius, who was a Roman poet and Virgil, who wrote poems that gave agricultural advice. Tying in these styles of poetry, along with message, and a valuable purpose made the poem elaborate. Mentioning of “the book” that will tell the girl many things about the Earth and how things work, and what became of it gives the poem a story-like feel. It’s mysterious, like the story of Narnia, where Lucy enters into a whole new realm and then is able to see her own world differently.
Another thing that I appreciated about this poem is its usefulness. Of course, as we have been learning, all literature is useful in our lives. But in particular, I was intrigued to read about the topic of “Caring for our planet” with a poetic twist. It moves the reader, gives insight into human conduct and our responsibility towards Earth, and lets us see beauty and remorse for the consequences of our doings. Seeing that poetry can have a strong effect on world views, personal views, and other important topics helped me further understand the multifaceted quality of literature. “The State of The Earth” was a more effective tool to a necessary topic than most of the commercials and rallies we see. I would like to see poetry used to raise QUESTIONS about abortion, racism, and consumer behavior. After all, literature serves for asking the hard questions.
The author makes much reference to Lucretius, who was a Roman poet and Virgil, who wrote poems that gave agricultural advice. Tying in these styles of poetry, along with message, and a valuable purpose made the poem elaborate. Mentioning of “the book” that will tell the girl many things about the Earth and how things work, and what became of it gives the poem a story-like feel. It’s mysterious, like the story of Narnia, where Lucy enters into a whole new realm and then is able to see her own world differently.
Another thing that I appreciated about this poem is its usefulness. Of course, as we have been learning, all literature is useful in our lives. But in particular, I was intrigued to read about the topic of “Caring for our planet” with a poetic twist. It moves the reader, gives insight into human conduct and our responsibility towards Earth, and lets us see beauty and remorse for the consequences of our doings. Seeing that poetry can have a strong effect on world views, personal views, and other important topics helped me further understand the multifaceted quality of literature. “The State of The Earth” was a more effective tool to a necessary topic than most of the commercials and rallies we see. I would like to see poetry used to raise QUESTIONS about abortion, racism, and consumer behavior. After all, literature serves for asking the hard questions.
3/21/10
Creating Character
Creating a well-rounded, versatile character is a challenging task. While people-watching, I noticed that jotting down words that could describe the subjects was a much more difficult task than I had anticipated. I recalled the factors that tied character together: Physical description, what people say about the person, what the person says, and the actions of the person. In order to better understand these steps, I took into account how I measure a person the first time I meet them. First of all, and this is the most obvious, I notice their physical characteristics. The way they dress can tell me a lot about how they look at themselves or desire other people to treat them. For example, a sloppy person doesn't care about appearance and possibly many other things, but a well-dressed person may want to be treated well and given special attention. Secondly, I may have heard certain comments about the person before. Whether they were positive or negative, I will have a better discernment about who this person is. The way others interact with them can give me insight into the social history of this person... whether or not he/she is rude, polit, respectful, endearing, etc. Thirdly, what this person says and does. What a person talks about is directly tied to their heart, motives, and actions. This reminds me of the Bible verse in Proverbs that states, "Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh." After observing all these things, one can really pin-point the general character of a person. This is, of course, to an extent.
Finally, when I pondered on how to create my own character, I realized I needed to do the following: Make my character come alive to the reader, till they know him so well that they can predict his next move. How? Because they know his personality, values, traits, etc. When I can achieve this, I have created a well-rounded character. At the same time, however, I don't want to make such a predictable and obvious chacarcter. I have to keep the reader guessing, but not too the extent that my character is more plot based. His character should direct the story line.
Finally, when I pondered on how to create my own character, I realized I needed to do the following: Make my character come alive to the reader, till they know him so well that they can predict his next move. How? Because they know his personality, values, traits, etc. When I can achieve this, I have created a well-rounded character. At the same time, however, I don't want to make such a predictable and obvious chacarcter. I have to keep the reader guessing, but not too the extent that my character is more plot based. His character should direct the story line.
3/19/10
My Birthday- 40 Years From Now
Sounds of silverware being placed in the white top tables echoed through the opened window. The saxophone joined the racket as the jazz band began to rehearse. Excitement was in the air, as the elegant party was in preparation. Invitations had been sent out months in advance. Sealed with classy red wax and embroidered with gold lace. Many people were invited, yet only a few in contrast to how many the hosts knew.
Her name was Elizabeth Garvey, but she liked to be called Beth. It was her 61st birthday party and she only had five hours to get ready. She pulled up a cushioned stool in front of her mirror and began the routine of applying her make-up. It didn’t go on the same as 40 years ago. Nevertheless, she could make the best of anything, even the wrinkled eyes and tighter lips.
A knock came through the door and gently opened. Her husband Scott walked into the room. He stood behind looking at her through the mirror. “Have I told you today how beautiful you are?” He said, brushing her hair with his fingers. Beth turned around in her stool and their hands met. “I think this is he first today.” She replied. He looked at his watch “It’s 11 o’clock, so I still have half a day to make up for only having said it once so far.” He said, giving her a playful kiss. Beth laughed, “Now run along, I have a few more things to put on.” He reluctantly stepped outside and continued the many preparations for the big party.
Beth snuck around the house trying not to be seen by anyone who may want to have a conversation. She was looking for her one of her younger grandchildren; small talk with the youngsters was the most gratifying and simple conversations. “Jacob!” She spotted one. He was reaching for the chocolates on the table. He stepped back thinking he had been caught. Beth kneeled down to get eye-level with him. “Sweetheart, I need you to tell me if Grandma looks good. I can’t trust your Grandfather. He’s blinded by love.” She put on a nice pose. Her vanity was the only thing that had not left her all these years. “You look super pretty, Grandma.” Little Jacob said, with a matter-of-fact tone in his voice. “Thanks baby.” She kissed his cheek. “Now you have all the chocolates you want. Don’t tell your mom!”
The party had begun and everyone had arrived dressed in their best. The music, the food, the dancing set the environment well. Scott was waiting beside the balcony that led out to the party. Beth walked to where he was and took hold of his hand. He led her outside where everyone greeted her with cheers and clapping. She hadn’t had a party since she was nine, so this was a special occasion. The crowd was cheerful and courteous. Beth hugged and chatted with everyone there. Old friends, new friends, and family surrounded her. They were all united by the memories they shared.
It was time for a toast. Scott stood up and began, “My dearest Beth, after all the years I’ve known her has decided to finally celebrate her birthday. I figured there was no sense in asking her why now. She has always had a mind of her own. I must say that in these thirty-five I have shared with her, everything has been adventurous, scary, and comical. There’s never a dull moment with my baby and I’ll celebrate our love forever.” Everyone clapped. Scott was sweet and corny as always.
“Let’s hear it from the birthday girl!” Someone shouted in the crowd.
Beth then stood up and glanced around, before she could say anything, the faces in the crowd started going back in time. She looked out and there was her daughter, Joette. Beth saw her as a teenager again. She recalled all the hard times where she swore it was payback for all the terrible things she did when was young. She also recalled the time when Joette sat on her lap telling her all the things she wanted to do when she grew up. She was doing them now and Beth knew she helped her get there. What a great satisfaction.
Her parents stood towards the back, holding each other. Their marriage had been the greatest example for her to follow. She then looked up at her husband, standing beside her, looking as amazing and handsome as ever. Scott had the same smile that he did forty years ago. Although he was the perfect man, they had had their trying times, but every night before they went to sleep he’d tell her he loved her. Everyday, he had said she was beautiful. Their marriage was the greatest accomplishment of her life.
Their grandchildren carried so many of their traits, both good and bad. Now, these strengths and weaknesses appeared so different. When they are one’s own, it seems the world is coming to an end. Observing from a grandmother’s view, they’re not so fatal after all.
Beth then saw herself, surrounded by love and an accomplished life. What she would have given to have known forty years ago that everything was going to turn out all right. If she could say anything to her twenty-one year old self, it would be this: “Relax. Enjoy the things that are truly valuable, like family and good friends. Work hard, because your dreams are beautiful and in forty years they will be applauded by all the people that believe in you.”
Beth snapped back into reality. She still had the glass in her hand and everyone had theirs raised in anticipation. She began, “Thank you all for being here today. The reason I am finally having a birthday party, is because as I look around, I have so much to celebrate… so much to be grateful for. Life has been good!” She ended on that note. Everyone expected something longer and possibly as corny as Scott’s toast, but that was all Beth wanted and needed to say. It was a good day, and so far, a good life.
Her name was Elizabeth Garvey, but she liked to be called Beth. It was her 61st birthday party and she only had five hours to get ready. She pulled up a cushioned stool in front of her mirror and began the routine of applying her make-up. It didn’t go on the same as 40 years ago. Nevertheless, she could make the best of anything, even the wrinkled eyes and tighter lips.
A knock came through the door and gently opened. Her husband Scott walked into the room. He stood behind looking at her through the mirror. “Have I told you today how beautiful you are?” He said, brushing her hair with his fingers. Beth turned around in her stool and their hands met. “I think this is he first today.” She replied. He looked at his watch “It’s 11 o’clock, so I still have half a day to make up for only having said it once so far.” He said, giving her a playful kiss. Beth laughed, “Now run along, I have a few more things to put on.” He reluctantly stepped outside and continued the many preparations for the big party.
Beth snuck around the house trying not to be seen by anyone who may want to have a conversation. She was looking for her one of her younger grandchildren; small talk with the youngsters was the most gratifying and simple conversations. “Jacob!” She spotted one. He was reaching for the chocolates on the table. He stepped back thinking he had been caught. Beth kneeled down to get eye-level with him. “Sweetheart, I need you to tell me if Grandma looks good. I can’t trust your Grandfather. He’s blinded by love.” She put on a nice pose. Her vanity was the only thing that had not left her all these years. “You look super pretty, Grandma.” Little Jacob said, with a matter-of-fact tone in his voice. “Thanks baby.” She kissed his cheek. “Now you have all the chocolates you want. Don’t tell your mom!”
The party had begun and everyone had arrived dressed in their best. The music, the food, the dancing set the environment well. Scott was waiting beside the balcony that led out to the party. Beth walked to where he was and took hold of his hand. He led her outside where everyone greeted her with cheers and clapping. She hadn’t had a party since she was nine, so this was a special occasion. The crowd was cheerful and courteous. Beth hugged and chatted with everyone there. Old friends, new friends, and family surrounded her. They were all united by the memories they shared.
It was time for a toast. Scott stood up and began, “My dearest Beth, after all the years I’ve known her has decided to finally celebrate her birthday. I figured there was no sense in asking her why now. She has always had a mind of her own. I must say that in these thirty-five I have shared with her, everything has been adventurous, scary, and comical. There’s never a dull moment with my baby and I’ll celebrate our love forever.” Everyone clapped. Scott was sweet and corny as always.
“Let’s hear it from the birthday girl!” Someone shouted in the crowd.
Beth then stood up and glanced around, before she could say anything, the faces in the crowd started going back in time. She looked out and there was her daughter, Joette. Beth saw her as a teenager again. She recalled all the hard times where she swore it was payback for all the terrible things she did when was young. She also recalled the time when Joette sat on her lap telling her all the things she wanted to do when she grew up. She was doing them now and Beth knew she helped her get there. What a great satisfaction.
Her parents stood towards the back, holding each other. Their marriage had been the greatest example for her to follow. She then looked up at her husband, standing beside her, looking as amazing and handsome as ever. Scott had the same smile that he did forty years ago. Although he was the perfect man, they had had their trying times, but every night before they went to sleep he’d tell her he loved her. Everyday, he had said she was beautiful. Their marriage was the greatest accomplishment of her life.
Their grandchildren carried so many of their traits, both good and bad. Now, these strengths and weaknesses appeared so different. When they are one’s own, it seems the world is coming to an end. Observing from a grandmother’s view, they’re not so fatal after all.
Beth then saw herself, surrounded by love and an accomplished life. What she would have given to have known forty years ago that everything was going to turn out all right. If she could say anything to her twenty-one year old self, it would be this: “Relax. Enjoy the things that are truly valuable, like family and good friends. Work hard, because your dreams are beautiful and in forty years they will be applauded by all the people that believe in you.”
Beth snapped back into reality. She still had the glass in her hand and everyone had theirs raised in anticipation. She began, “Thank you all for being here today. The reason I am finally having a birthday party, is because as I look around, I have so much to celebrate… so much to be grateful for. Life has been good!” She ended on that note. Everyone expected something longer and possibly as corny as Scott’s toast, but that was all Beth wanted and needed to say. It was a good day, and so far, a good life.
3/3/10
Sonny's Blues
Sonny's Blues had the theme of suffering set in the ghetto of New York city. It tells of two African-American brothers who come to understand each other. Throughout the story, Sonny's brother is the narrator. It is interesting to see what convinces another person of one's case. The narrator step by step grows closer to empathy of his brother's conditions. It seems as if suffering and sadness are always the greater crowd charmers. Many literary texts revolve around adversity. Is it perhaps because the tale of life is mainly composed of tribulations? Maybe that is what the text means when it says, "For while the tale of how we suffer and how we are delighted, and how we may triumph is never new, it always must be heard. There isn't any other tale to tell." I noticed, however, that in this passage the word triumph was included as if a continuation of how we suffer. So there is the process: There is no triumph without tribulation.
In class, Professor Corrigan taught us the art of lectio divina, which is a four step meditation of selected passages. Originally used by the monks, it bears great effectiveness for understanding and applying a text. As we pondered on some of the texts from Sonny's Blues, I focused on the one where he says, "All I know about music is that not many people ever really hear it.." My reflection of it was that through the blues, the musician was expressing his suffering, but for others it was a beautiful sound. They did not know where the passion came from or the history behind the notes. Sonny was able to find refuge behind the beautiful melodies and turn his suffering into something magnificent.
The last step was to find a prayer. Mine was this:
God,
Help me come to the understand that my suffering and past can be turned into something beautiful. That where I come from only makes where I am all the more astounding. That is why I can and should give thanks in all things. Amen.
In class, Professor Corrigan taught us the art of lectio divina, which is a four step meditation of selected passages. Originally used by the monks, it bears great effectiveness for understanding and applying a text. As we pondered on some of the texts from Sonny's Blues, I focused on the one where he says, "All I know about music is that not many people ever really hear it.." My reflection of it was that through the blues, the musician was expressing his suffering, but for others it was a beautiful sound. They did not know where the passion came from or the history behind the notes. Sonny was able to find refuge behind the beautiful melodies and turn his suffering into something magnificent.
The last step was to find a prayer. Mine was this:
God,
Help me come to the understand that my suffering and past can be turned into something beautiful. That where I come from only makes where I am all the more astounding. That is why I can and should give thanks in all things. Amen.
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