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This is the city seen from the 30th floor of the US Bancorp building, where the Portland City Grill restaurant is located. The restaurant was quite crowded, and all the booths bordered windows overlooking the city.
Since I had traveled from Seattle to attain such a view (digitally), I was determined to get some photographs, even if it meant having to ask customers in the middle of their meals. Yes, it was bound to be awkward as I scrambled through the crowds of residents and tourists to find a good vantage point.
Luckily, one gentleman was sitting by himself at a booth overlooking the vista you see here. I decided to simply inquire if he would mind me taking a few shots. He was very pleasant and said he was waiting for his girlfriend to arrive so it wouldn't be any problem.
As I took photos of the city, he started to explain the history and details behind the urban planning of downtown, which was very interesting. We probably talked for about 10 minutes, and he thanked me for being a good listener, saying most people do not seem to care about how a city comes to be what it is.
I said it was I who should be thanking him because he was so kind to let me interrupt, and for the best gift I had received that day. When he asked me what I meant, I explained it was my birthday (and it was!) and he had helped to deliver the gift I wanted -- this photograph. He wished me a happy birthday, and a happy stay in Portland. After the brief crossing of paths, we both returned to the regular routines of our individual lives.
Enjoy, and never be afraid to ask! Humility and politeness do go a long way, as preposterous as that may sound in this day and age. Nevertheless, occasionally the gesture is returned and you both gain something from the exchange. That's how life should be, I suppose.
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•• From atop its solitary hill, fifty meters above sea level, the little cemetery of Querqueville has dominated the vast harbor of Cherbourg (département of Cotentin in Normandy) for time immemorial. It was already a burial site in early Christian times, and as archæological digs carried out during the 1970s have shown, this locale saw at least three successive places of worship built one after the other in the years 300–600. The etymology itself is eloquent, as Querqueville comes from the Norse word kirkja, church, which is not only the linguistic root of the word in English, but also in many other languages, such as the German Kirche or the Dutch kerk.
After it was destroyed, allegedly by a Viking raid, the church was rebuilt during Carolingian times, and has come to us through the centuries virtually untouched. The opus spicatum (fishbone apparel) walls are 0.70 meter thick. The nave is strictly oriented and designed on a basilica floor plan completed in the East by a rarest trefoil layout, of which only two other examples can be found in the whole of Normandy: the three leaves, of roughly the same dimensions, form the apse and the arms of the transept. There is no choir. The monument is regarded by some scholars as a direct descendant of the Gallo-Roman architectural tradition.
Many hypotheses have been formed to date this remarkable monument, surely the oldest in the département of Cotentin. Gerville, the Norman archæologist of the 19th century who coined the word “Romanesque” to describe the architectural style that predated Gothic, dated it “from Merovingian times”, i.e., roughly between 480 and 750 AD, and a similar date was also put forward in the 1920s. However, advanced archæological research undertaken in 1975–77 allowed to place construction of the walls around Year 900, even though such construction integrated older substructures, notably in the side walls.
The chapel is dedicated to Saint Germain, but no one knows if that is Saint Germain so-called «à la Rouelle», an Irishman born in Scotland (hence his other name of Saint Germain le Scot), who allegedly crossed the English Channel on a Roman chariot wheel miraculously supplied to him, then evangelized Normandy, or the better known Saint Germain of Auxerre who, besides, is supposed to have baptized the former and given him his Christian name, which implies he was named otherwise when born, but knowledge of that first given name never reached us.
Listed as a Historic Landmark as early as 1862, the chapel is dominated by a bell tower, the upper part of which is recent (1655). This modern part covers the 10th century bell tower which still exists, intact, inside that outer envelope, which was erected to house the bells of the parochial church built right next to the chapel, at a time when that church was in poor condition.
Inside, the chapel offers a crude and unrefined appearance, poorly lit by rare windows, of which several were opened or enlarged during Romanesque times, long after completion of the building. I had to use off-camera flash to properly lit the place. There is no capital; the four discharge arches that support the bell tower are made of shell limestone and rest on squarish piles via mere abacuses.
The whole monument emanates a great simplicity and humility; it expresses a naive and profound faith that cared not for decorum nor étiquette. Small (13 meters × 11) and built with shale rock found on-site, it is a rare witness of times forever gone, come to us in a state of purity and preservation that undoubtedly “deserves a détour”, or is even “worth a trip” for any connoisseur of Romanesque and pre-Romanesque architecture. It also features traces of alfresco wall paintings that, in my opinion, date from the 12th century. Those would probably be worth restoring, if they could be first uncovered, then recovered.
The southern elevation of the chapel. This is a four-exposure panorama shot that I had to stitch with PTGui software as Photoshop wasn’t doing a good job with this one, for some reason. Maybe it was a little extreme, as there is no room to step back any further because of the parochial church; the tripod is right up against its wall.
Created for MacroMondays - theme - Humility
“If I have seen further than others, it is by standing upon the shoulders of giants.” - Isaac Newton
MacroMondays group has become a great inspirational boost. I am always left in awe of the wonderful contributions to this pool, hoping that just a spec of the talent from others might rub off on me allowing my petals to open more fully. Thanks for being such a great group! :D
Happy MacroMonday!
Modern man is gradually recovering from the shock of realizing that, intellectually, he has no right to dream any more; no right to mourn his lost craving for that which he may need but to which he has become indifferent.
-God in Search of Man: A Philosophy of Judaism by Abraham Joshua Heschel
The sublime is not opposed to the beautiful, and must not, furthermore, be considered an esthetic category. The sublime may be sensed in things of beauty as well as in acts of goodness and in the search for truth. The perception of beauty may be the beginning of the experience of the sublime. The sublime is that which we see and are unable to convey. It is the silent allusion of things to a meaning greater than themselves. It is that which all things ultimately stand for; “the inveterate silence of the world that remains immune to curiosity and inquisitiveness like distant foliage in the dusk.” It is that which our words, our forms, our categories can never reach.
-God in Search of Man: A Philosophy of Judaism by Abraham Joshua Heschel
oh... still found another oldie and added Shana Rae's textures.
"Humility does not mean thinking less of yourself than of other people, nor does it mean having a low opinion of your own gifts. It means freedom from thinking about yourself at all." ~William Temple~
textures Shana Rae - you can view her page here
Treasure for your soul
(Henry Law, "The Raven" 1869)
Blessed are those who find their constant
pleasure-ground in the luxuries of the Bible!
They commune with the mind of God.
They listen to a heavenly voice.
They bask in rays of purest light.
They feed in wholesome pastures of refreshment.
They fear no poison from the weeds of error.
No devious path can lead their steps astray.
Wisdom from above sweetly guides them.
The Spirit, the ultimate Teacher of His people,
instructs the students. They advance safely,
happily—from grace to grace.
The lessons are as vast as the mine from which
they spring. They are as pure as the realms to
which they call. They warn of sin—its filth, its
misery, its end. They unfold Jesus—in all the
glories of His redeeming love. They exhibit
holiness—as the only road to a holy heaven.
Reader, heed a salutary admonition. Study the
Bible, as holding treasure for your soul. Study
in the earnestness of prayer. Study with eternity
outspread before you. Study with the humility of
a poor sinner before a speaking God. Study with
faith devoutly grasping every word.
Do not close the volume without inquiring . . .
Is sin more hateful to me?
Is the world more worthless in my estimation?
Is the flesh more treacherous in my sight?
Is Jesus brought nearer to my adoring soul?
Is my heart won to more entire devotedness?
Am I more resolute to live for Him, who died for me?
Rovingian Animist Perspective - Ethics of Subsistence and Relationships by Daniel Arrhakis (2026)
The Rovingian Animist Position on Poverty and Material Possessions
Commitment to humility, reciprocity, and community solidarity
Rovingian Animist Perspective: Ethics of Subsistence and Relationships
The Rovingian animist view on poverty and material possessions presents a significant break from Western approaches, which tend to value the accumulation of resources or economic deprivation, and from Abrahamic traditions, which often associate poverty with virtue or trial. In this perspective, an ethics of subsistence prevails, where value is centered on the fluidity of relationships and solidarity among beings, rather than the possession of goods.
Fundamental Pillars of the Animist Vision
- The Notion of Poverty as Isolation
In the animist context, poverty is not defined by the absence of money or resources, but by the rupture of social and spiritual bonds. To be poor is to be deprived of a network of reciprocity with the community, ancestors, and nature. Individual accumulation is viewed negatively, as a sign of poverty of spirit or illness, because it interrupts the vital flow that sustains the collective.
- Material Goods as Agents
According to this view, material goods are not simply inert objects, but agents endowed with purpose ("anima"). The use of these goods should be ritualistic and functional, avoiding excessive accumulation that imprisons energy and prevents the renewal of resources. Thus, material goods represent transformative and solidarity potential, and should circulate among the members of the community. Possession becomes a responsibility to maintain the flow, not a right to accumulate.
- Reciprocity: The Community Flow
Rovingian economics is based on the principle of giving and receiving, promoting the circulation of goods to strengthen and unite the community. True wealth is measured by the capacity to distribute and sustain the collective, renewing and transforming the system instead of stagnating accumulated resources.
- Cosmological Humility
Humility is understood as the recognition of the human condition: we are not the owners of the earth, but its guests. Resources are seen as loans from the spirits and the earth itself, requiring gratitude and thrift, in contrast to modern extractivism. The earth is considered the property of ancestors or spiritual entities, and the living only have the right to sustainable use in order to guarantee prosperity for future generations.
Postulates of Conduct of the Rovingian Monks
Simplicity
Cultivating a sober and simple life is fundamental. The practice consists of minimizing material needs, living only with what is necessary and rejecting consumerist practices.
Humility
Humility involves renouncing the pursuit of prestige, power, or dominion, whether social, political, or spiritual. The goal is to integrate oneself equally into a natural and universal whole.
Sharing
Sharing guides that goods and knowledge should not be accumulated as private property, but circulate freely. One person's surplus meets another's need, and true abundance manifests when the flow of giving and receiving is not interrupted by selfishness.
Reciprocity
It is recognized that nothing we receive from nature is free or unilateral; every resource used must be honored with gestures of gratitude or actions of preservation, maintaining the balance of the ecosystem.
Universal Communion
Community life should reflect the web of life, in which cooperation replaces competition and mutual care is the basis for collective evolution.
Volunteering and Selfless Help
Volunteering and selfless help are essential values. The willingness to help should exist whenever necessary, including in situations of conflict or under repressive regimes.
Voluntary Payment for Spiritual Services
Payment for spiritual services rendered to monks is voluntary and based on principles of ethical reasonableness. Regardless, assistance is not refused to those in need due to financial hardship. Reciprocity and Sharing: Interdependence and Breaking Down Possession
The logic of Rovingian Animist Monks emphasizes postulates of reciprocity and sharing that reinforce the interdependence between all beings and promote the overcoming of the sense of individual possession, consolidating an ethic based on flow, solidarity, and collective responsibility.
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A Posição Animista Rovingiana Sobre a Pobreza e os Bens Materiais
Compromisso de humildade, reciprocidade e solidariedade comunitária
Perspetiva Animista Rovingiana: Ética da Subsistência e Relações
A visão animista rovingiana sobre pobreza e bens materiais apresenta uma rutura significativa em relação às abordagens ocidentais, que tendem a valorizar a acumulação de recursos ou a carência económica, e às tradições abraâmicas, que frequentemente associam a pobreza à virtude ou provação. Nesta perspetiva, prevalece uma ética de subsistência, em que o valor está centrado na fluidez das relações e na solidariedade entre os seres, em vez da posse de bens.
Pilares Fundamentais da Visão Animista
- Noção de Pobreza como Isolamento
No contexto animista, pobreza não se define pela ausência de dinheiro ou recursos, mas pela rutura dos vínculos sociais e espirituais. Ser pobre é estar privado de uma rede de reciprocidade com a comunidade, antepassados e natureza. A acumulação individual é vista negativamente, como sinal de pobreza de espírito ou doença, pois interrompe o fluxo vital que sustenta o coletivo.
- Bens Materiais como Agentes
Os bens materiais, segundo esta visão, não são simples objetos inertes, mas agentes dotados de propósito ("anima"). O uso desses bens deve ser ritualístico e funcional, evitando-se a acumulação excessiva que aprisiona a energia e impede a renovação dos recursos. Assim, os bens materiais representam potencial transformativo e solidário, devendo circular entre os membros da comunidade. A posse transforma-se numa responsabilidade de manter o fluxo, e não num direito de acumular.
- Reciprocidade: O Fluxo Comunitário
A economia rovingiana é baseada no princípio do dar e receber, promovendo a circulação de bens para fortalecer e unir a comunidade. A verdadeira riqueza é mensurada pela capacidade de distribuir e sustentar o coletivo, renovando e transformando o sistema em vez de estagnar recursos acumulados.
- Humildade Cosmológica
A humildade assume-se como reconhecimento da condição humana: não somos donos da terra, mas seus hóspedes. Os recursos são vistos como empréstimos dos espíritos e da própria terra, exigindo gratidão e parcimónia, em contraste com o extrativismo moderno. A terra é considerada propriedade dos antepassados ou de entidades espirituais, e os vivos têm apenas o direito de uso sustentável, a fim de garantir prosperidade para as gerações futuras.
Postulados de Conduta dos Monges Rovingianos
Simplicidade
Cultivar uma vida sóbria e simples é fundamental. A prática consiste em reduzir ao máximo as exigências materiais, vivendo apenas com o necessário e rejeitando práticas consumistas.
Humildade
A humildade implica renunciar à busca de prestígio, poder ou domínio, seja social, político ou espiritual. O objetivo é integrar-se de forma igualitária num todo natural e universal.
Partilha
A partilha orienta que bens e conhecimentos não sejam acumulados como propriedade privada, mas circulem livremente. O excedente de um atende à necessidade de outro, e a verdadeira abundância manifesta-se quando o fluxo de dar e receber não é interrompido pelo egoísmo.
Reciprocidade
Reconhece-se que nada do que recebemos da natureza é gratuito ou unilateral; cada recurso utilizado deve ser honrado com gestos de gratidão ou ações de preservação, mantendo o equilíbrio do ecossistema.
Comunhão Universal
A vida em comunidade deve refletir a teia da vida, em que a cooperação substitui a competição e o cuidado mútuo é a base para a evolução coletiva.
Voluntariado e Ajuda Desinteressada
O voluntariado e a ajuda desinteressada são valores essenciais. A disposição para ajudar deve existir sempre que necessário, inclusive em situações de conflito ou sob regimes repressivos.
Pagamento Voluntário dos Serviços Espirituais
O pagamento pelos serviços espirituais prestados aos monges é voluntário e baseado em princípios de razoabilidade ética. Independentemente disso, a assistência não é recusada a quem precisa por insuficiência financeira.
Reciprocidade e Partilha: Interdependência e Rutura da Posse
A lógica dos Monges Animistas Rovingianos enfatiza postulados de reciprocidade e partilha que reforçam a interdependência entre todos os seres e promovem a superação do sentido de posse individual, consolidando uma ética baseada no fluxo, solidariedade e responsabilidade coletiva.
The Lord of Humility
also known as Apo Pacencia
Middle of the 19th Century
FILIPINO
A wooden image painted in frank imitation of ivory.
Dimensions: 36.5 cm or 14.6 in.
Provenance: The Antonio Martino Collection
Published in:
Jose, R. T. 2004. Power+Faith+Image: Philippine art in ivory from the 16th to the 19th century. Manila (Makati): Ayala Museum. p. 264.
Jose, R. T. 1990. Images of faith: Religious ivory carvings from the Philippines. Pasadena (CA): The Pacific Asia Museum. p. 137.
Special Note: Miniature images (also know as 'Table Top' images) made of ivory or having ivory parts depicting the suffering and passion of Jesus Christ are quite rare. There are numerous images of the the crucified Christ in ivory (both large and small) but Passion images are few and far between.
This image of the Pacnecia is of particular interest because it was specifically finished to look like ivory.
In late February, 2018, I trekked across the megalopolis (and prefecture) known as Tōkyo, where, by the late afternoon on this day, scattered rains had crept their way across the Kantō Plain, showering the streets with cold winds and water, adding to the already brisk air blanketing the city (and her wards), and granting me a dramatic view from the highest observation deck at the top of the Tōkyo Sky Tree, 451 meters above the ground.
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The sight was truly beautiful to see (and this image hardly does it justice), as the sprawling jungle of human construction, which stood as a marvel of progress and achievement, was yet still humbled beneath that which the Lord hath made.
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It shows us that, no matter how great we pridefully boast to be, or how advanced we think we are, we are - in all actuality - tiny by comparison to all that God has created, and we should never forget as such.
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Yet being humble before such a reminder doesn't mean you can't marvel at the sheer beauty before your eyes, and being tiny by comparison in no way means you're insignificant either.
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Truly we are capable of great and meaningful things in our lifetime. Tōkyo itself stands as proof of such a statement. But none of that comes without hard work, some sacrifice, being of service, having humility, and enduring and learning from a little adversity along the way.
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So take up thy courage, leave thy bubble, and embark on an epic journey down a path of achievement to great and meaningful things! Yet while you do, don't forget to bask in the glory of all the Lord has created, be thankful for all He has provided, and humble enough to know your place in the world...
Thank you, in advance, to those of you who take a moment to leave a comment and/or fave my photo. I appreciate it tremendously.
Stained glass window produced by Morris & Co., titled Humility, Mercy, Generosity, Charity, Justice, Liberty, Truth, Love, Faith and Courage (c. 1898)
David Healey was the mayor of Heywood, Lancashire, England. Over one hundred years ago, he made a substantial donation to the local Unitarian Church (a church that his father had helped to found). His donation enabled the congregation to commission a beautiful 15-foot tall stained glass window for the church chancel. The window now bears his name: the David Healey Memorial Window.
The piece was acquired in 1999, from collectors in Carmel, California (USA). The couple who last owned the piece bought it in 1967 from the now-demolished Britain Hill Unitarian Church in Lancashire, England (where Morris & Co. had installed it in 1898).
The abandoned church suffered through a fire the year after the stained glass window was sold. The work would have been lost, had it not been sold.
The Huntington:
A private, nonprofit institution, The Huntington was founded in 1919 by Henry E. Huntington, an exceptional businessman who built a financial empire that included railroad companies, utilities, and real estate holdings in Southern California.
Huntington was also a man of vision – with a special interest in books, art, and gardens. During his lifetime, he amassed the core of one of the finest research libraries in the world, established a splendid art collection, and created an array of botanical gardens with plants from a geographic range spanning the globe. These three distinct facets of The Huntington are linked by a devotion to research, education, and beauty.
In 1919, Henry and Arabella Huntington signed the indenture that transferred their San Marino property and collections to a nonprofit educational trust, creating The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens, which hosts more than 500,000 visitors each year.
"We're sitting on our blessed Mother Earth from which we get our strength and determination, love and humility, all the beautiful attributes that we've been given. So turn to one another; love one another; respect one another; respect Mother Earth; respect the waters-because that's life itself!" ~ Phil Lane, Sr. YANKTON SIOUX
Our entire point of view can be altered by making one change to align with the principles of the Great Spirit. Let's say we decide to become respectful. As we become respectful, our attitude
will change. We will automatically draw into our lives knowledge about the other principles of the Great Spirit such as love, appreciation, trust, beauty, and peace of mind. By focusing on these principles, we will let go of selfishness, self centeredness, self pity, dishonesty, and fear. You focus on respect, you get respect; you focus on love, you get love; you focus on the Red Road, you get peace of mind. Great Spirit, let me learn the lessons of respect.
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(Chorus)
Wade in the water.
Wade in the water, children.
Wade in the water.
God's gonna trouble the water.
Well, who are these children all dressed in red?
God's a-gonna trouble the water
Must be the children that Moses led
God's a-gonna trouble the water.
Chorus
Who's that young girl dressed in white
Wade in the Water
Must be the Children of Israelites
God's gonna trouble the Water.
Chorus
Jordan's water is chilly and cold.
God's gonna trouble the water.
It chills the body, but not the soul.
God's gonna trouble the water.
Chorus
If you get there before I do.
God's gonna trouble the water.
Tell all of my friends I'm coming too.
God's gonna trouble the water.
Chorus
*Wade In The Water* ~ by Cedarmont KIdshttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERpRj8ZmLsA&list=RDERpRj8ZmLsA&start_radio=1
I'm not planning to eat all of them at once, but I do have to take 40 of them over the next 10 days >.< My illness appears to be baffling the doctor though, go figure. I just got off of anti-biotics for Strep-C, and had a negative mono test in December, but this is the fifth throat problem I've had since the end of August. Who knows the name of the medicine I'm taking? Extra points for correctly guessing my illness! (This is humility because I hate going to the doctor when I'm sick. I feel like most of the time, it really isn't necessary, and I was going to tough it out again, but I decided to give in to my better reasoning).
constructive criticism welcome
He goes to the forest — and chooses the most suitable 'rod' to correct us!
(James Smith, "Divine Chastening" 1859)
"You shall also consider in your heart, that, as a man chastens his son — so the Lord your God chastens you." Deuteronomy 8:5
Our heavenly Father loves us just as much when He frowns — as when He smiles upon us.
The Lord Himself chastens His children. He never allows His children to be flogged by others, nor keeps a drill-sergeant to do it. He Himself chastens every redeemed child.
He selects the instrument. He does not take up a rod that may 'by chance' lay before Himjust because it comes first to hand. No, no! He goes to the forest — and chooses the most suitable 'rod' to correct us! Proud man always imagines that God . . .
has chosen the wrong rod,
or strikes on the wrong place,
or corrects at the wrong time.
But depend upon it — it is all right. If He . . .
strikes the body,
or seizes the property,
or removes the family member,
or alienates the friend,
or afflicts the soul —
it is all done in infinite wisdom, and perfect love.
He numbers His strokes. Not one too many, nor one too few — but just the right number is appointed. LESS would not humble the proud heart, bend the stubborn will, or turn back the wandering feet. MORE would unduly depress, give Satan an occasion against us, or harden our hearts. Believer, you shall never have one more stroke than your Heavenly Father has appointed — nor will He appoint one more than is necessary!
He marks the effects of the rod. He watches to see the effect produced by every stroke. If we fall at His feet, humble ourselves before Him, confess our sins, and appeal to His mercy — we take hold of His strength, and the chastisement soon ceases.
Sanctified correction always . . .
embitters sin,
brings us nearer to God,
softens our spirits,
humbles our hearts,
produces penitence, and
leads us to admire the wisdom and love of God.
Chastisement is designed to improve our characters — these, at best, are very imperfect. In order therefore to make us more watchful, prayerful, diligent, and devout — our heavenly Father uses the rod. And, if at any time we are left long without it, we become . . .
lukewarm,
careless,
indifferent,
conformed to the world,
and carnally minded.
When the tear of penitence is seen in our eye — the rod soon drops from His hand! Or, if the discipline is continued — then such comfort, peace, and meekness flow into the soul — that we call it sweet affliction, and bless His dear name for it.
Nor can we then pray for the removal of the rod — but only for its deeper sanctification. We creep close to His feet, look up in His paternal face, catch His loving eye — and almost swoon with pleasure, humility, and love!
He makes the rod beneficial to us. He corrects us, not for His pleasure — but for our profit, that we may be partakers of His holiness. He uses the rod . . .
to convince us of our folly,
to keep us sensible of His authority,
to make us smart for our inconsistencies,
to bring us to repentance, and
to make us cautious, tender, and humble.
Whatever end He fixes upon — is beneficial; and whatever end He fixes upon — He will bring to pass. So that we may well say, even when smarting under the rod, "We know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28
He loves us too well, to give us any unnecessary pain — and He is too wise to allow our follies to go uncorrected.
Macro Monday ~ Humility
Recognition and praise is most given to those who are the loudest and seem to have the most powerful moves. They appear to have greater value and worth. However, one should never underestimate the value of the humble pawn. This is where the game of chess, as well as life, is won.
" A passed pawn increase in strength as the number of pieces on the board diminishes." - Jose Capablanca
A tribal elder was telling his grandson about the battle the old man was waging within himself.
He said, "It is between two wolves, my son. One is an evil wolf: anger, envy, sorrow, greed, self-pity, guilt, resentment, lies, false pride, superiority and ego. The other is the good wolf: joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith."
The boy took this in for a few minutes and then asked his grandfather, "Which wolf is winning?" The old Cherokee replied simply, "The one I feed."
Sacred Rovingian Natural Landscapes - The Transformative Journey Through the Gorges by Daniel Arrhakis (2026)
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With the music : Breath of the Night (feat. Rautu) · The Void Wanderer · Rautu by ℗ 2026 Cryo Chamber
The Transformative Journey Through the Gorges or Canyons
Reflection on Humility, Overcoming Challenges, and Connection with Nature
The Gorge as a Learning Path
The narrow and deep canyons or gorges impose themselves with their almost steep and imposing slopes, leading us to adopt a posture of humility during the journey. At the same time, they invite us to reflect on our mission in this world.
The experience of the Rovingian monk at the beginning of the journey differs significantly from that which he feels upon leaving; throughout the journey, we are challenged physically and spiritually, with the canyon being the stage for multiple trials.
This journey goes beyond a mere crossing through nature—it is a true walk of self-knowledge and a journey that transcends time and space.
The Symbolism of the Journey
Humility of the Slopes
The narrowing of the path nullifies the ego of the traveler. Faced with the monumental scale of the rock, our physical smallness becomes evident, opening space for spiritual growth and the pursuit of inner greatness.
Physical Challenge as a Mirror
The effort required by the climbs and the uneven terrain test not only the muscles, but also the resilience and patience of the hiker. Each obstacle encountered becomes a practical lesson in overcoming and perseverance.
Crossing Time
In the silence that inhabits the depths of the canyon, the noise of the modern world disappears. This Rovingian journey, marked by deliberate wandering, values the state of presence more than the final destination, making the journey a space for contemplation and introspection.
The Impact on Personal Mission
Upon exiting the gorge, the vastness of the horizon acquires a renewed meaning. The act of crossing symbolizes a purification of vision and spirit.
Clarification
The isolation provided by the canyon allows the hiker to listen to their own inner voice, which often remains muffled in daily life.
Renewal
The exit from the canyon represents a rebirth, carrying with it the lessons learned in the shadows of the steep walls.
Connection
At the end of the crossing, one understands that our mission is not to dominate nature, but rather to integrate ourselves into it with wisdom and respect.
The Inner Metamorphosis
This new perspective transforms the geographical hike into an authentic inner metamorphosis. The canyon ceases to be a mere geological accident, becoming a liminal space—a portal where the hiker is no longer the same upon exiting, revealing a profound personal transformation.
In any case, the hike should always be just that, a crossing; staying longer is not recommended, as the canyons are powerful energetic ecosystems where antagonistic forces sometimes exist, or due to their rugged and impactful geomorphology, they can intensify feelings and alter consciousness.
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A Jornada Transformadora pelo Desfiladeiro
Reflexão sobre Humildade, Superação e Conexão com a Natureza
O Desfiladeiro como Percurso de Aprendizagem
Os desfiladeiros estreitos e profundos impõem-se com as suas vertentes quase íngremes e imponentes, levando-nos a adotar uma postura de humildade durante o percurso. Ao mesmo tempo, convidam-nos a refletir sobre a nossa missão neste mundo.
A experiência do monge rovingiano no início do trajeto difere significativamente daquela que sente ao sair; ao longo da jornada, somos desafiados fisicamente e espiritualmente, sendo o desfiladeiro palco de múltiplas provas.
Este percurso vai além da mera travessia pela natureza — é uma verdadeira caminhada de autoconhecimento e uma travessia que transcende o tempo e o espaço.
A Simbologia do Percurso
Humildade das Vertentes
O estreitamento do caminho anula o ego do caminhante. Diante da escala monumental da pedra, torna-se evidente a nossa pequenez física, o que abre espaço para o crescimento espiritual e para a busca de grandeza interior.
Desafio Físico como Espelho
O esforço exigido pelas subidas e a irregularidade do solo testam não apenas os músculos, mas também a resiliência e a paciência do caminhante. Cada obstáculo encontrado transforma-se numa lição prática sobre superação e perseverança.
Travessia do Tempo
No silêncio que habita as profundezas do desfiladeiro, o barulho do mundo moderno desaparece. Esta jornada rovingiana, marcada por uma errância deliberada, valoriza mais o estado de presença do que o destino final, tornando o percurso um espaço de contemplação e introspeção.
O Impacto na Missão Pessoal
Ao sair do desfiladeiro, a amplitude do horizonte adquire um significado renovado. O ato de atravessar simboliza uma purificação da visão e do espírito.
Clarificação
O isolamento proporcionado pelo desfiladeiro permite ao caminhante escutar a própria voz interna, que muitas vezes permanece abafada no quotidiano.
Renovação
A saída do desfiladeiro representa um renascimento, transportando consigo as lições adquiridas nas sombras das paredes íngremes.
Conexão
Ao fim da travessia, compreende-se que a nossa missão não passa por dominar a natureza, mas sim por integrarmo-nos nela com sabedoria e respeito.
A Metamorfose Interior
Esta nova perspetiva transforma a caminhada geográfica numa autêntica metamorfose interior. O desfiladeiro deixa de ser um mero acidente geológico, tornando-se um espaço liminar — um portal onde o caminhante já não é o mesmo ao sair, evidenciando uma profunda transformação pessoal.
De qualquer forma a caminhada deve ser sempre isso mesmo, uma travessia, não se recomenda a permanência, pois os desfiladeiros são ecossistemas energéticos poderosos e onde por vezes existem forças antagonistas ou em virtude da sua geomorfologia acidentada e impactante pode potenciar sentimentos e alterar consciências.
One year, two perspectives. This image is part of a 365(+1) project, my friend Tilo and I are working on. If you want to see more, check out our website zweisichtig.de.
Consider a humble artisan assuredly creating great masterpieces. Thinking them mere happenstance, when, in actuality such a supple intelligence portrays an artful sensitivity skilfully executed to spark moments of discernment.
Her nature, being modest, wanting nothing but to share her passion for the wondrous yet often hidden and unsung treasures. Permitting only humilities garments to frame her magnanimity, she is content with somewhat anonymity.
Humilities virtuosity in keeping with its innocence will never succumb the ego of this practitioner the impertinence of self praise, even the well deserved adulation from another will most often be set aside for modesty’s sake..
Henceforth such wonders are born to us in magnificent grandeur, thusly we are enriched by unintended circumstances. Artistic virtuosity humbly rendered to awaken us from seemingly perpetual slumber. Such depth of spirit duly submerged in the love of humanity deserves the crown of praise.
One year, two perspectives. This image is part of a 365(+1) project, my friend Tilo and I are working on. If you want to see more, check out our website zweisichtig.de.
Humility would be the reason for sure but it was also the harsh afternoon sun that made them bow and walk. Seen near Mehrauli, south Delhi.
"This past Friday, Skully's Music Diner was filled to the brink of its capacity as the Cleveland Invasion rolled in to town. The show featured Columbus natives The Midas Touch, NiQ, Le and The 3rd. The headliner for the show was Cleveland's Chip Tha Ripper."
Read the rest of the article at the Examiner
More photos at URB
to accept my humanness... to know that i am not greater than, nor lesser than anyone else... to realize there is room for all ... to be rid of petty jealousy... to know that life is for living, not competing... to keep my ego in check... for allowing something greater than myself to guide me... for all this i pray.
amen.
Buddha Bar -Desire
www.youtube.com/watch?v=PB8Dk9k-iVw
"A Lover knows only humility,
He has no choice.
He steals into your alley at night,
He has no choice.
He longs to kiss every lock of your hair,
Don’t fret,
He has no choice.
In his frenzied Love for you,
He longs to break the chains of his imprisonment,
He has no choice.
A Lover asked his Beloved,
“Do you Love yourself more than you Love me?”
Beloved replied:
“I have died to myself and I live for you,
I’ve disappeared from myself and my attributes,
I am present only for you.
I’ve forgotten all my learnings,
But from knowing you I have become a scholar.
I have lost all my strength,
But from your power I am able.
I Love Myself,
I Love You.
I Love You,
I Love Myself.”
I am your Lover,
Come to my side,
I will open the gate to your Love.
Come settle with me,
Let us be neighbors in the Stars.
You have been hiding so long,
Endlessly drifting in the Sea of my Love.
Even so, you have always been connected to me.
Concealed, revealed, in the norm, in the un-manifest.
I am Life itself.
You have been a prisoner of a little pond,
I am the Ocean and it’s turbulent flood.
Come merge with me.
Leave this world of ignorance
Be with me,
I will open the gate to your Love.
I Desire you more than food or drink.
My body, my senses, my Mind,
Hunger for your taste.
I can sense your presence in my Heart.
Although you belong to all the world,
I wait in Silent Passion,
For one gesture, one glance from You."
(Taken from “The Love Poems of Rumi”)
Special thanks to Alex Y. for helping out with post production. You can check out his awesome work at: www.flickr.com/photos/114739792@N02
The Nomad Monks - Walking In A Solitary Quest by Daniel Arrhakis (2025)
With the music : ABYSS || "the last man on earth" // Dark Ambient Soundscape by INEKT
The "Rovingian Council" or the Nomad Monks, with origins dating back to the late Al-Andalusian period and the reconquest by Christian kings. Today, there are very few of them, and it could be said that a legend has been revived.
But those who accept to serve the community do so for life, until the end of their days, knowing in advance that most of their time is an intrinsic and solitary journey of humility, learning, and availability to those who seek it.
A Nomad Monk spends much of his time understanding, compiling, and recording mystical signs, geometries, and rituals so that they are not lost in time and may have personal or universal mystical value.
Ancient temples, ruins, and abandoned places of worship are often the chosen locations.
Each Monk has a personal book (The Compendium) where he records his discoveries, his thoughts, as well as the cases of people who asked him for help and the solutions he found.