Reflected

Plato suggested that human perception is so limited that our understanding of the world is like seeing shadows on a wall.  The modern understanding aligns with this:  we only see or hear what comes within our range, what is within our limited bandwidth, and only to the extent we are able to pay attention.  And don't even get me started about memory ...

But I am starting to think that what we really perceive is always a reflection, or the combination of what is right in front of us with what is reflected from behind us.  

And if we only see what we individually are capable of seeing, then in some sense what we are always seeing is ourselves.

By the way, I think I can see you too.  At least to the extent we are reflections of each other.

Hello !

Thankful

There is a lot to be worried about, this Thanksgiving season.
And of course the holiday has disturbing aspects in its origins.

Still -- while keeping those realities present -- when is it bad to be thankful?

For the beauty that comes with the change in seasons...

For the wonderful meals, and the skill and time it takes to prepare them...

For the unexpected skills and conversations that enliven our gathering ...

For the regularly repeated conversation, "Remind me, are you my second cousin once removed? or ....."
For health and hardiness (my cousin Gerry's visit to the hospital notwithstanding)...
And most and best, for my wonderful and quite extended family !!

May the friends and family around us provide the strength we need to make the world better over the coming year.

The Return of The View From Steve's Camera

At a wedding this fall, I met a camera enthusiast who was taking pictures with a camera that was a lot smaller than the old digital Nikon I've been using.  The pictures were gorgeous.  It's a relatively new kind of camera called "mirrorless."  With newer sensor technology, and some great lens options, these new cameras take really nice pictures - perhaps even nicer than what I can get from my old Nikon.  I rented a Fuji X-T2 to try it out; and now I've bought one.  In time for Amy's birthday celebrations last weekend ...

I'm totally hooked.  Something about this camera reminds me of why I started taking pictures -- and started this blog -- so many years ago:  When I'm taking a lot of pictures (even when I don't have the camera in my hand) I remember to look at the world.  It's really a pretty amazing place !

I'm going to try to get back on a regular schedule, posting pictures ever two to four weeks.  I hope you enjoy them as much as I do !