733

This is a transitional year for me on many levels. When I started journaling on a daily basis back in NYC, the time spent reflecting on paper allowed me to take a much needed good look at myself. When I moved to DC, after about a year, I discovered that daily writing no longer served a purpose however, my creative energy directed me to a larger journal where I recorded progress, thoughts, and pictures when the mood or circumstance arose. Electronic journaling took over at a time when I felt I needed discipline and also had an itch to explore something new. Posting provoked creativity on several levels including matching words with pictures or visa versa; finding different words to say the same thing; composing poems; and communicating with people when speaking directly to them was not working. Over time, the blog became an outlet to help me cope with dissatisfaction, a state of being that dissolved when I stepped out on purpose this past February. 

During the summer, I experienced frequent writer’s block which is unusual for me when it comes to penning the eclectic eye. I didn’t fully understand until August; the desire to return to physically writing my thoughts down on paper consumed me, let me know that it was time to lessen the note taking on my phone as well as typing the blog. I don’t argue with transition, I move with the flow. 

After today, I will no longer post every Sunday and Wednesday as I’ve done for exactly seven years. While I totally enjoyed sharing these twice a week stops on my journey with you, I look forward to where my writing takes me next. I’m not sure when post #734 will appear, so until then, thanks for stopping by, check back periodically and continue to…

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ps…artwork and photographs can be found on www.tinascottlassiter.com; I update monthly.

sit a spell

It’s been awhile since I posted an invitation to have a seat, so on this last day of August when summer is just about over, please sit for a spell and…

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best laid plans

Earlier this year when I retired from the 9-5 world to pursue my own ventures, I embraced stepping onto a transitional path with a plan for what I was to accomplish by summers end. What is it that they say about plans…

July was a month of making life decisions for others, unexpected travel, trying to understand the value/meaning of other people’s belongings, and hours on the phone, none of which contributed to growing a budding business. When August started, all of that was still in play; I felt like I was making little to no progress with my work but came to realize that in between everything, I have taken the time to go to the movies or get lost in a good book, giving my mind time to escape. I’ve also been doing some very deep thinking. Recently, during one of my quiet moments, a small voice within clearly spoke nine words, “Places to see, people to know, joy to spread” which lifted my spirits; the best is still ahead.

Any period of disruption comes with lessons or messages and this period wanted me to know that transitioning occurs on many levels, not just the ones typed into plans and to do lists. I am thankful to have the time to manage the more difficult situations that popped up since summer tends to bring a bit of down time to the pursuit of new clients. Devouring a good book is a respite often enjoyed in my past; I was reminded of just how much I like a page turner. I even began to feel the need to physically write, pen to paper, once again (more on that in a future post). 

Indeed, the best is coming in many aspects of our lives, we just have to be patient when all is not occurring as we expected. Keep in mind that the path is not always straight and, quite frankly, life has its own plan, so remember to…

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good space

Somewhere in the pre-dawn hours, during the moments when one passes from dreams to a more lucid state, I found myself thinking about the special pieces in my home, specifically several African artifacts, carved statues, and masks. I know exactly when and where they found me, the instant connection I had with each when I first saw them. It was still early when I turned on a repeat of an interview with designer Nate Berkus; my pre-dawn memories were just a prelude to this discussion about things that matter, about not following trends when decorating your home, about how what surrounds you should reflect who you are. Good to hear, though that’s how I've always styled each place I've lived.

I have many acquired, gifted and purchased treasures around my living space. However, I must admit that over the years some impulse items have snuck into the mix. Much like I did when I cleaned and purged this past March/April, I will assess everything in every room to determine what needs to go and that means also taking a look at what’s hiding in cabinets; just because we can’t see it doesn’t mean that meaningless, unneeded stuff should be allowed to take up room anywhere in our lives...know what I mean?

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down fall

My grandmother used to tell me that I had nothing but time whenever I got in my car to drive somewhere. I must remind myself of that as I lose patience trying to drive anywhere in this city during daylight hours especially Monday - Friday and even as I move about on foot! I was so preoccupied with annoyances due to blocked streets that turned a 5 minute drive into 25 minutes of frustration and with what I needed to do next on my to do before it gets too hot out here list that I was rushing; am I really…OMG, I am…crap, put your hands out or you’re going to smack your face on the concrete! 

Be mindful as you move about or you just might wreck yourself so stay focused and…

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scarred

Trees intrigue me. From the shape and coloration of their leaves to the texture and patterns of their bark, to the height and expansion of their limbs, I can spend several minutes communing with a tree. Sometimes, as I’m walking, I look up and the knots and cuts seem to resemble faces greeting me as I pass or the boughs are curved as if the tree is reaching out to embrace me. During my visit to the Botanic Gardens last week, I came upon a huge specimen whose branches climbed far into the air; my neck got stiff from looking up to take in the beauty in its entirety. As I lowered my gaze, I noticed lots of peeling and scarring creating intricate designs that spoke to me on the upload review. This piece is entitled “the lash”.

Slavery is a topic that so many tend to avoid though the scars from that period remain amongst us today. A charter member of the National Museum of African American History and Culture (nmaahc.si.edu) in Washington, DC which will address that part of history, I anticipate the autumn opening to see just how it will be done. Trees could tell part of the Underground Railroad story. Yesterday, I became aware of America’s Black Holocaust Museum in Alabama (abhmuseum.org) built to bring front and center lynching, a subject that in this present day is pretty much dismissed and ignored. Trees could tell a huge part of this story.

We the people must acknowledge the entire history of this country; be appreciative of the contributions and respectful of the sacrifices made by each group of people in a land that long ago began its growth of cultural diversity. There is no turning back.

If only trees could talk…well actually they do. You can hear them if you…

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scarred

on living

Appreciate each moment as it comes and…

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soul lifted

Recently, I walked past the Botanic Gardens and noted that I wanted to see FLOURISH; I love that word so my curiosity as to how it would be interpreted with botanics was roused. But…there was a slight problem. All of the museums on The Mall open at 10:00AM, a time when the sun is out in full force. One of the reasons I walk very early in the morning, especially during the summer months, is to avoid over exposure to the direct sun rays because of my rosacea. I would never entertain driving to the Gardens since I live less than a mile from there and besides, there is no place to park anyway so overcast days are perfect for me to visit; yesterday the weather deemed it was one of those days. 

Upon arrival, I went straight into the room with the FLOURISH banner hanging over it and didn't find an abundance of images to capture; I decided I would interpret the word through my own selection of visuals found both in and out of that location…

Be thankful for the cloudy days that bring flourishing sunshine to your soul and subtle forces that lift you to places where you can thrive, so… 

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firsts

The first to apologize is the bravest. 

The first to forgive is the strongest.

And the first to forget is the happiest. 

                                        - Unknown

I don’t know who was the first to utter these words, do know that I’ve been each and all of these firsts at one time or another in my life…and you? 

Be first and…

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stillness

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political thought

Politics has never been my favorite subject though I sometimes think there is a political pundit living inside me. I get a kick out of hearing the exact views I’ve shared with friends and family later expressed by paid commentators. During this highly controversial election year, when choice is not so clear, I find myself sifting between rhetoric, truth, the ridiculous; the circus of the absurd is part of the daily discourse and I’m all in when it comes to expressing my thoughts.

Both the Democrats and Republicans held conventions in weeks past; both parties had some hiccups on their respective day ones, both groups pressed on. While I have my thoughts about what I saw and heard, there is one message magnificently spoken by First Lady Michelle Obama that resonated with me -- “When they go low, we go high!” 

This quote is timeless, a seven word lesson for adults and children everywhere and one we really must master if we wish to avoid the consequences that eventually befall those who lack the courage, intelligence, and confidence necessary to walk the high road. Being able to rise above the negative allows us to stay on purpose, shows others that regardless of what they say or do, we will hold onto dignity, class and integrity; values that too many who run for both local and national offices abandon the moment they toss their hat into the center ring. 

Perhaps in a past life, I was a politician of some kind. In this life, I do have an opinion, respect the fact that others are entitled to theirs, and am keenly aware that we must pay close attention to what everyone is saying, more importantly to what they might be hiding or actually don't know a thing about, especially now as we prepare to go to the polls. This is no year to stay home, be sure to vote and…

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cool

Though I have traveled through Egypt for 14 days and actually got used to daily temperatures that rose well above 110 degrees, somehow I cannot acclimate to the heatwave that has spread into its second (or is it third?) week! I stepped outside at 6:00am the other day; my glasses immediately fogged up, the intense moisture in the air a cloaking steam bath. During these oppressive days, I move as quickly as I possibly can from one air conditioned location to another in an effort to not be overcome by the heat that rushes into my nose sending my sinuses and head into chaos. I’ve had to suspend my morning walks, which I’m not too happy about, climbing onto the treadmill instead, which doesn’t lend itself to taking photos. Thankfully I have a huge portfolio of images and when I came across this one, it cooled me off just looking at it.

I just want to immerse myself in the pool, stand under the water, feel the droplets splashing over me, cooling the heat of the summer. Maybe I should find a sprinkler to jump through, though that means a trip into the oven that our great outdoors has become. On second thought, perhaps not, so as I contemplate my options…

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a sunday thought

If we could see the miracle

of a single flower clearly, 

our whole life would change. 

                     - Buddha

Be still, pay attention and…

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beautifully resting

have to admit that mentally and physically, I am exhausted so much so that my brain does not want me to write…I pay attention to brain and body which has requested a rest so my photo today is entitled, “beautifully resting”…

…which is what I’m doing. Not sure for how long, however pictures will be posted, so don’t go away just…

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wonders

always be on the watch for the 

coming of wonders. 

- e.b. white

so stay positive no matter what is happening in your immediate world or the world at large and…

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habits

Not sure when, if ever, I have caught a 6:00AM train back to DC from Jersey visits much less the regional train (every possible stop between departure and destination) at that hour. There were several vacant seats, the quiet car was early morning people still not quite awake yet quiet, and I decided to sit on the sun coming up side of the train, something I rarely do. I sat with my thoughts after an emotionally draining few days; no headphones, no magazine, no emails, just me and the window, no camera capturing views. I reflected on my past, was forced to come to terms with some choices I and others have made. 

There is some truth to the statement, the apple does not fall far from the tree. I fell from the tree, made the choice to roll away while maintaining connection over the years; but the soil I was rooted in influenced and is still hindering some needed growth. This revelation shocked me, an independent woman who embraces and builds on the lessons learned from both her downs and ups. As the shock subsided, it was replaced with an immediate knowing that change was necessary which, under the circumstances means detangling my roots and finding clear ground to set myself down in. At the same time, it also means being grateful for the nourishment received from the roots on the land previously occupied, ensuring that there is a healthy connection from that plot to my new one, and making very sure that I’m so firmly planted once untangled that when I return to the old soil, it’s clear to all, including me, that I’m just visiting! 

Learned habits take root and are especially hard to break when they are encouraged, bring what in reality is temporary gratification, and eventually form part of our persona. Just because we’re adults does not mean we aren’t susceptible to a bit of root rot caused by any number of things, so if that’s the case, get to pulling and…

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tutu

I walked past this fallen bloom then found myself going back to gaze at it as it lay on the concrete. So delicate it was, fragile really; something about it reminded me of a tutu. As a very young girl, I took then came to seriously dislike ballet. I eventually began to love the art of the dance once I saw professional companies gracefully bringing stories to life as I sat mesmerized by the beauty and precision of their movements. There is a thrill that comes over me as I sit in the darkness waiting for the lights to come up so the dancers can take the stage. I actually enjoy all types of dance and this tiny flower reminded me that it’s been awhile since I attended a performance. 

Twirling away now to see whose dancing in the city, so…

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fish out of water

At first glance, this may seem to be a fish swimming in an aquarium; I assure you, it is not. As a matter of fact, the brass sculpture is pictured on a poster in front of some lush green leaves outside of a museum so I’ve titled this photo fish out of water. 

Sometimes I can relate. I find myself wondering how the heck I’ve arrived at a particular place/situation or better yet, why am I still in/dealing with said place/situation. Fortunately, I’ve rectified the latter when it comes to “place.” However, a few weeks ago I seemed to wade into situational waters that continue to be dicey; the curves in the stream don’t slow leading me to spots with pebbles being thrown from the shore. All I can say is that I’m grateful for my survival instincts that tell me when things are headed for disaster so gracefully, if possible, get out; the ability to quietly tread yet still make progress if land is not in site; the creativity that allows me to change direction in a split second if that will keep things moving in the right direction; and for my years of experience that have prepared me to do any or all of the above hopefully with a successful outcome.

Swimming upstream may create waves of fatigue, uncertainty, and even discord along the way. However, there is sureness, integrity, and a renewed strength to be found once you get where you’re going, so find comfortable strokes that work for you, be steady as you go and when you come up to take a breath…

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the invasion

July in Washington, DC signals hot humid weather, pre sunrise and post sunset so I was delighted when the air was cool for several hours yesterday morning as I walked around the Tidal Basin then sat for chit chat with my bestie. I actually started feeling chilly as we enjoyed winding down, the grouping of chairs and tables placed rather randomly in a lot that will soon be the site of yet another high rise. 

It seems that no open space is safe in the District; a building a minute gobbles up the respite found in any location with natural surroundings. Trees a plenty, unobstructed views of the sky, minimal traffic, and low rise structures coupled with a lower cost of living are some of the things that brought me back here 16 years ago. Gone is that era. I don’t love seeing my place of birth being transformed into a concrete & glass jungle and fortunately my immediate neighborhood is protected from the crane invasion. Turning into my street from either end of a four block stretch, I am ushered home by a canopy of shading tree branches that also evoke a fairyland when snow covers them in winter. No matter what is being built or how nuts the traffic is every or anywhere else, my four blocks is sacred territory void of the invasion. It’s the reason I will hold onto my current residence even as I search for my dream home with gorgeous views of calming waters.

I stood up to turn my green adirondack chair towards the warmth of the sun and there on the arm was a big ladybug, bright red and running! She was moving so quickly, I had to laugh then wonder where she was on her way to. My advice to her is to hurry on over to Haines Point or Rock Creek Park where no building is allowed. At least she’ll be able to commune with undisturbed nature, undisturbed by the invasion. 

One can only hope so…

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a virtue

It is compassion, the most gracious of virtues,

 which moves the world. 

- Thiruvalluvar, Tamil poet & philosopher

Make peace your purpose and while you move through each day, hold compassion close as you…

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ticket to ride

I road the train from NYC back to DC and once again found myself looking out the window. Landscape changing from second to second, I thought about how excited my grandparents used to be each time they boarded the Metroliner to Jersey when I was younger. Riding that extra-fare train was a classy experience to them; I wondered if they watched the northeast corridor passing by as the train headed up and down the rails.

Times and the view from my window in the quiet car have certainly changed since then. The Acela, which replaced the Metroliner, is a convenience that gets me from one location to another faster than the regional and is not so classy to me, though I'm not at all complaining. When I get the Red Cap to take me to it before regular boarding, I enjoy walking through the deserted cars, seats quietly waiting to invite this passenger to sit down wherever she wishes. I oblige, get settled, plug into Pandora, and relax into the peace found when someone else does the driving. On occasion I read or play a word game on my iPad, try my darnedest not to work; watching the cities, buildings, homes, waters, woods and wilderness more often than not captures my attention and holds it for the duration of the ride. As I look outside, lost in thought, I’m treated to the art of negligence, renewal, the forgotten, and on this trip an egret standing in the swamp, a blue jay sitting on a tree, and a small forest of pink tree trunks! I snapped away with my iPhone as the train sped along...

One unplanned day, I’ll pack a picnic, my camera, and a light bag, and buy a ticket to ride a route I've never taken to check out a new landscape. Some moment in the future, I’ll hop a flight to India where I'll catch the Maharaja Express for the adventure of a lifetime; I wait with great anticipation for that day. Maybe I'll see you there or somewhere on the rails, so…

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