Complexity and simplicity, and much in between. Complex engineering, complex growing child’s brain; simple cruising at sea, simple pleasure for a child exploring rock pools, sensually, visually and with curiosity. Within a natural ecosystem that sustains us all. The simple pleasures. And almost always free. Watch a young child at…
January 2019
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Two ships cooperating at sea. Rules based, safety first, good outcome. It is quite wonderful to live by the ocean near a shipping channel and observe the various workhorses of the world’s seas sail on by. Slowly, methodically, impressively, powerfully, and safely. So I was fascinated further to watch two…
Wooden bridge in Hoi An, Vietnam. Dates to the 1700’s. There’s a throw-away line in my cultural neighbourhood that suggests to people who complain or are experiencing self-pity to “build a bridge, and get over it”. This is certainly not a caring or helpful statement, but largely dismissive and indicative…
A man on duty. Aiming to protect. We trusted him. Others too. Porta Princesa, Philippines. Men are everywhere. And where there are men, there is trouble. Violence, abuse, greed, power striving, competition, selfishness. In the democratic countries of the so-called West, there is the movement to diminish the power of…
After preparing my last post, and commenting on the benefits of just being in nature, I was reminded of our wonderful trip to Kangaroo Island, in South Australia. A gentle reminder to all, to not just get out in nature, but work each day to preserve it. I trust you…
Kingscote, Kangaroo Island, South Australia. Not sure where the seals came from … Some of us are so privileged that we can be told it is ok to do nothing. Further, we can be advised that doing nothing is good for our health. However, the scientist, rational thinker and contrarian…
Government House, Darwin Australia. A town unique in Australia as it experienced major bombardments during World War II. The beautiful ambiance now can remind us that nature can restore its beauty in time, even after periods of horror, war and evil human activities. I observe from afar the horror of…
Domestic dogs are amazing creatures and companions. Some even like to watch TV. And just like humans, they can be loyal and gentle when part of your pack, but to outsiders, they can be aggressive, hostile and most anti-social. Humans however, can rise above such tendencies as mature, open minded…
This beautiful place and the calm water surface masks the danger that lurks below. In this era of instant gratification and supposed connectivity, it is possible to assert that we have never been so advanced in terms of privilege and opportunity, at least in those countries that respect universal human…
On my occasional visits to my hometown, I see it increasingly through the eyes of a tourist, a visitor, and outsider. But forever it will be my hometown. I am grateful for that, to have grown there, educated there, entertained there, and been safe there. Friends and family there too….