From time to time I like to do a mental exercise called Fresh Eyes. Sitting still, I cast my eyes around the room and notice what I see. I notice not just the objects, but the judgments I pass on those objects. For instance, the pile of clothes which is not just the pile of clothes but one that needs to be ironed. Or the shelf of knick-knacks, some of which remind me of happy times, but which also make me worry about the mess. When I'm stuck in a rut, I notice my thoughts adding a layer of dissatisfaction and stress to the objects around me. Closing my eyes I then reopen them and look again. I re-examine the room but this time without passing judgment, as a newborn baby would see things, with fresh eyes. I relish relearning how to look at things with wonder and awe and innocence. Yes, mess can be beautiful and there can be a happy balance between clutter and collecting things. Forcing myself to look at the world anew like this also helps me see pictures I might not otherwise have taken.
Ella has started wearing contact lenses in the last few weeks. She has been getting used to seeing the world with fresh eyes, and we have been getting used to seeing her in a new way, without her glasses. I do wonder what wee Max is seeing here with those fresh eyes of his! Can he see Liz or has he noticed the camera? He must be in continual awe and amazement! Now, try the exercise yourself and see the world again with your fresh eyes...and don't forget your camera!
Happy New Year!
kirstin of fleeting moments
Wee Max (4 months old) by lizzard_nyc
14 comments:
i love your exercise idea and the pairing of these two images is perfection
Very thought provoking. Ella is beautiful.
Lovely post, Kirstin, and an interesting take on 'fresh'. Two beautiful shots, as well.
This was just what I needed today. Thank you K xx
Both of the images are stunning. Very thought provoking post, Kirstin!
You are turning into an eloquent writer along with your photographic talents, my sweet. Lovely post.
What a lovely and inspiring post Kirstin...fresh eyes indeed. I needed to hear this.
i love the photo of Ella...
and wee Max is pretty darn cute too...
trying to see the world around us with fresh eyes... like the eyes of a child...
not a bad idea...
it is full of wonder...right there...
so beautifully written. inspiring, my friend.
wonderful post. you are so inspiring, dear kirstin x
Hi Kirstin,
Your exercise sounds wonderful! I will have to try that this year! The eyes and sense of amazement that a child sees with is certainly something to aspire to.
Wishing you a great New Year!
P.S. Ella has gorgeous eyes. Lovely capture of her.
I love her fresh eyes. and yours.
What a marvellous thing to do! Too often our world is coloured with our necessity to 'tidy' stuff up. Why not just accept.
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