being "back"

Post Choir Olympics with the Piedmont Choir Staff
Marin woods

Kayaking at Lake Sonoma

the clothes of those killed at S-21 in Phnom Phen, Cambodia up until 1079.
Massai in Tanzania
Wildebeasts....

I've been "home" for a little while now. In a way, nothing has changed. But, change is constant, and we notice the differences.

I've had an experience of a lifetime, traveling around the world. I lived a dream of mine that many folks never get the opportunity to do. I was able to meet people from so many different cultures and relate my understand of humanity to new friends. I amazed at the strength in people; and shocked by human destruction. Its all so very real. And when I feel sorry for myself or feel some kind of difficulty in my situation, I am reminded of those who are suffering. Some one tell me who said that "we are all suffering". I'd rather not look at the world like that. I'd rather try to see the positivity in all things. Its difficult sometimes. You don't have any choice in where and to whom you are born. That's simply the luck of the draw. I was born into a loving family in a wealthy community. That right there has dictated a lot about who I am.

I have never experienced hunger. I have always had educational opportunities. wow...

Its hard to separate all of that against emotions.

I bought this simple oil painting in Tanzania and in order to bring it home, I took the canvas off the wooden backing. I went to get it framed, and the frame store told me that it would cost about 300 to restrech it and frame it. I was shocked. That amount of money is the amount of some people's yearly salary. How could I be so unthoughtful and self absorbed to spend that much on something that would hang on my wall? I would much rather give that money to help schools or ato a child to get vaccines. Money is very complex. And I cant think of how wrapped up we are, and I am in all this stuff that really doesnt count.

I try to remain hopeful, but my science self feels discouraged by numbers and actions of people as a whole. At the same time I am amazed a the beauty that I see in everyday life. Its a strange place to be, to love and to hate humanity.

I do know that I am blessed, lucky and honored... beflucky, to be in this moment. I am thankful for my teeth, and a bed to sleep in.

I'm looking forward (and present) to spending some time with those good people I care so much about that make me smile.

gonna go brush the teeth...