She shares this image freely, in the hope that it's message will spread, inspiring "a quiet revolution". A moving idea in these uncertain times, and a concept with which I struggle on a daily basis; the balance between nature and consumerism, nature and technology. As one who makes a living from my art (which is often old-world in concept), but relies heavily on technology to share, it's a bit of a fine line. And while I passionately rail against such signs of our times as WalMart, McMansions, and designer-everything, I truly bless the advent of the internet and the way it has brought us together.
Remembering our roots, and our connection to the natural world can be a tricky business in an age when we're bombarded with so much artificial stimuli, and we all must find our own balance. I judge no one here - if I've learned one thing in this life, it's that we all must find our own path, and that ultimately, most of us do the best we can.
My own journey toward balance has involved turning away from things like television and convenience foods, from purchasing mass produced goods, and following a different career path than the rest of my family, measuring success by a different yardstick than the one with which I was raised. I spend my days paintbrush and teacup in hand, candles burning, music playing, and animals at my feet, realizing full well there's a price to be paid for this kind of life and the lack of financial security it brings, but knowing I would wither had I followed any other path.
Whatever your own path, whatever balance you seek, or have found, I hope you can find some inspiration in this emblem. And if you find it inspiring - this rising up for our collective roots, this remembrance of our old hearts - perhaps you would like to join hands with others who are saving the image from Rima's blog, printing it out and passing it on. I hope so.
Until next time,
♥ Carolee
