Why, or why not ?

This is the question that I have been torturing myself with for the last several months. Why must I continue to capture images that I like when it seems that it is simply an exercise in frustration and a bit of a money pit. Is it for the artistic value ? Mostly. Sometimes it goes hand in hand with what we are doing in our artist's lives, creating and recording events and moments. Sometimes it is just the things I find odd or out of place, The above sofa, for instance. Or the gentleman reading a magazine by a busy street. Many times, I have no idea what I want to record. This is the best time as the opportunity is hiding and I hope to find it. The thrill of the hunt, if you will allow. But why do I go on when it seems that the rewards are virtually nil ?

I have to do it.

I cannot explain it but it is a necessary part of my life to express myself through a medium and I have to do it. Not for the fame (hahaha !) or monetary rewards (rotflmfao !!!) or the ego stroking from viewers (viewers, right ). Whatever is lurking in my subconscious must be expressed through an artistic release valve. I don't know why, but I DO know that I am afraid to NOT do it. Before, it was music. Now it is photography. I haven't a clue as to what is next, but it is coming. It could be graffiti, interpretive dance, music (again), painting, fiction writing, cooking.....who knows. It simply must be.

It has been said that 90% of success is simply showing up.

Here I am.

With a solid B+

Selah

R

Too Long

It has been entirely too long since I actually posted something vaguely meaningful. Had a spectacular time in Montreal. I cannot wait to return. I was awestruck by the lifestyle. The class, the dress, the politeness, the art, the food, my God the food was phenomenal. A lot closer than San Francisco and far more convenient for us. The people seemed to know something that I did not, and no it was NOT just the French language, smart guy ! People seemed to genuinely ENJOY WHAT THEY WERE DOING IN THAT SPECIFIC MOMENT. I want that now. I have had a taste of it and it is good. I've been told that we only dealt with the service sector and that I should relax a little, but I think I have had a "Eureka !" moment. I LOVED the "Bonjour" upon entering a store or museum or wherever. I loved learning that you should not eat whilst walking down the street there, that food should be enjoyed and not wolfed down between appointments. The "Bonjour" thing was reinforced the last day there. I wore a sport coat the entire time I was there (no running shoes either) with the exception of the last day. We were driving straight through to DC, so I had on shorts, t-shirt, and ball cap on when we went to get coffee before leaving. The lady behind the counter said,"Good Morning." I was crestfallen. I dressed like an "American" and was DENIED my "Bonjour." Now, I have to go back and get that happy, lilting greeting that I have come to love.

Anyway, loved the dog's expression in the top photo. He was no stranger to this scenario. The second is from the Basilica de Notre Dame. Could have spent an entire day there feeling God's presence in our lives. The third is from one of the many museums there and dates from the 1700-1800's from Old Montreal. Loved the presentation of the city's history from the very beginnings.

Take a moment and enjoy yourselves ! You ARE worth it, if you believe it or not.

R