Autarchy may refer to: Autarchism, an ideology or practice that promotes individual self-governance. Autarky, an ideology or practice that promotes (social, cultural, economic) self-sufficiency. The pronunciation of "autarchic" is ō-ˈtär-kik (with stress on the first syllable). It is an adjective meaning "characterized by or being in a state of self-governance". The word "autarchic" is also sometimes spelled "autarchical," with the pronunciation of ō-ˈtär-ki-kəl.

An autarchic woman—self-ruling, independent, and sovereign in her essence exudes a magnetism that is both enigmatic and undeniable. Her allure lies not in conformity nor external validation but in the unapologetic authenticity of her self-governance. Let us explore the qualities that make such a woman captivating, examining how her autonomy, resilience, and inner clarity draw others toward her like moths to a flame, while simultaneously challenging the world to rise to her level.

At the heart of an autarchic woman’s magnetism is her autonomy. She is not swayed by societal pressures or the expectations of others. Her decisions, whether in love, career, or personal growth, stem from a deep well of self-awareness. This independence is not born of isolation but of a deliberate choice to prioritize her own values over external noise. In a world that often demands women to bend—to soften their edges or dim their light—her refusal to compromise her core is revolutionary. People are drawn to her not because she seeks their approval but because she doesn’t. Her self-sufficiency is a mirror, reflecting both the insecurities and aspirations of those around her.

This autonomy fuels her resilience, another pillar of her magnetic presence. An autarchic woman is no stranger to adversity; she has faced storms and emerged not unscathed but stronger. Her scars are not hidden but worn as badges of survival, proof of her ability to rebuild herself from the ground up. This resilience captivates because it is quiet yet unshakable. She does not broadcast her struggles for sympathy but transforms them into wisdom, which she wields with grace. Her strength is not performative—it is the steady pulse of a woman who knows she can endure anything and still choose to thrive.

Her inner clarity amplifies her allure further. An autarchic woman possesses a vision of who she is and what she wants, honed through introspection and experience. This clarity manifests in her actions, words, and even her silences. She speaks with purpose, listens with intention, and moves through the world with a confidence that is neither arrogant nor ostentatious. Her presence is grounding; it invites trust and respect. People are drawn to her not only for her decisiveness but for the rare certainty she embodies in an era of doubt and distraction.

Yet, the magnetism of an autarchic woman is not without its paradoxes. She is approachable yet untouchable, open yet fiercely private. She can love deeply but will never lose herself in another. This duality intrigues those around her, sparking curiosity and admiration. Her boundaries, firm but kind, challenge others to respect her space while inspiring them to cultivate their own. She is a catalyst for growth, not by preaching but by living unapologetically as herself.
The autarchic woman’s magnetism also lies in her rejection of perfection. She is not a polished ideal but a living, breathing testament to the beauty of imperfection. Her flaws are not weaknesses but facets of her humanity, embraced rather than erased. This authenticity disarms those who encounter her, inviting them to shed their own masks. In her presence, pretense feels unnecessary, even absurd. She creates a space where truth is the only currency, and that raw honesty is intoxicating.

Critics might argue that such a woman risks alienation, that her self-reliance could be mistaken for coldness or her independence for arrogance. But this critique misses the mark. Her magnetism is not universal—she does not seek to please everyone. Instead, she attracts those who resonate with her frequency: the curious, the courageous, the seekers of truth. To those who fear her strength, she is a riddle; to those who understand it, she is a revelation. In literature and history, we see echoes of autarchic women whose magnetism endures. Consider Cleopatra, whose sovereignty over herself and her kingdom captivated empires, or Virginia Woolf, whose fierce intellect and inner world reshaped literary landscapes. These women were not beloved by all, but their presence was undeniable, their influence indelible. Today, the autarchic woman walks among us in countless forms—a scientist forging her own path, an artist defying convention, a mother teaching her children the power of self-respect.

Ultimately, the magnetism of an autarchic woman lies in her embodiment of freedom. She is free not because she is unbound by responsibility but because she chooses her chains, if any, with intention. Her life is her own creation, a canvas painted with bold strokes of courage, clarity, and conviction. To stand in her orbit is to feel the pull of possibility, the reminder that we, too, can claim our sovereignty. She is magnetic because she is whole, and in her wholeness, she invites the world to become more.

In conclusion, the autarchic woman’s allure is not a fleeting charm but a force; steady, transformative, and timeless. Her autonomy, resilience, clarity, and authenticity weave together to form a presence that commands attention and inspires awe. She is not here to be consumed but to be witnessed, not to be possessed but to be understood. And in that understanding, we glimpse the power of a woman who rules herself, and in doing so, redefines what it means to be magnetic.

Perception and perspective are two terms used interchangeably in casual conversation, yet they represent distinct concepts that shape how we understand and interact with the world. Both are rooted in the human experience, influencing our thoughts decisions, and relationships. However, perception refers to the sensory and cognitive process of interpreting information, while perspective is the broader viewpoint or mental framework through which we evaluate that information. Understanding the difference between these two ideas reveals how they work together to define our reality. Perception is inherently subjective because it is filtered through individual factors such as biology, emotions, and past experiences. This subjectivity means that two people can perceive the same event differently. Perspective, on the other hand, is a mental standpoint or attitude we adopt when interpreting our perceptions. It is less about the immediate sensory experience and more about the broader framework shaped by beliefs, values, culture, and life experiences- that we use to evaluate and contextualize what we perceive. Perspective is the “why” behind our reactions, the lens that gives meaning to the raw data of perception. While perception is about What we notice, perspective is about How we judge or understand it. Perspective tends to be more stable than perception because it is tied to deeper, more enduring aspects of identity, though it can evolve over time with new experiences or insights. The distinction between perception and perspective lies in their scope and function. Perception is immediate, sensory-driven, and focused on the present moment-it answers the question, “What am I experiencing?” Perspective, by contrast, is reflective, conceptual, and often forward-looking- it answers, “What does this mean to me?” Perception is the raw material; perspective is the story we tell ourselves about that material. In essence, perception and perspective are two sides of the same coin, each playing a vital role in how we navigate the world. Perception is the initial, sensory encounter with reality, while the mental framework that gives us meaning. Recognizing their differences allows us to better understand ourselves and others, as it reveals why two people can experience the same event yet walk away with entirely different interpretations. By examining both our perceptions and perspectives, we gain the power to question our assumptions, broaden our viewpoints, and engage more thoughtfully with the complexities of life.  

    I am a Star looking over the Earth.  Imagine the world from the perspective of the stars, a unique and awe inspiring vantage point.
    From the stars viewpoint, earth is a small, vibrant orb, nestled within the vastness of space. The planets oceans and swallowing white clouds stand out against the dark void, creating a beautiful and dynamic canvas. The stars, ancient and enduring, watching over this ever-changing scene, witnessing the dance of light and shadow across the globe, as it spins on its axis.
    To the stars, time is a different concept. They exist on a scale of billions of years, observing the slow, geological changes of earth, and the rapid evolution of life. The rise and fall of civilizations, the shifting of continence, and the cycles of climate are but fleeting moments in there, long existence. The stars see the interconnectedness of all things, the delicate balance of ecosystems, and the resilience of life.
    Each star has its own story, and from their perspective, Earth is revolving with countless narratives. The stars witnessed the creativity and ingenuity of humanity, the expressions of art and culture, and the quest for knowledge and understanding. The stars observe the struggles and triumphs, the love and conflict, and the endless pursuit of meaning that defined the human experience.
    As night falls, the stars become guardians of the sky, casting their gentle light upon the world below. They inspire wonder and curiosity, guiding travelers, and sparking the imagination of dreamers. The constellations, with the mythological tales, serve as reminders of humanity's connection to the cosmos, and the shared stories that unite us across time and space.  
    From their distant vantage point, the stars invite us to look beyond our immediate surroundings and explore the universe. They remind us of the boundless possibilities that lie beyond our planet, and the potential for discovery and adventure. The stars encourage us to reach for the unknown, to expand our horizons, and to seek a deeper understanding of our place in the cosmos. In this celestial perspective, the stars offer a sense of wonder, and a reminder of the vastness and beauty of the universe. They challenge us to embrace our curiosity, to cherish our planet, and to recognize the interconnectedness of all things in this grand cosmic tapestry.
    Throughout history, humans have looked to the stars for navigation, storytelling, and inspiration. Exploring the cultural and historical significance of the night sky can provide a sense of connection to humanities shared past. Ultimately, while the night sky can make us feel small, it can also inspire a sense of wonder, curiosity, and connection to something greater. Embrace these feelings, and let them enrich your life. 

Anderson Contemporary Center presents, "Living the Dream". This exhibition is a profound exploration of personal aspiration and self-fulfillment. Dreams require more than wishful thinking. They demand deliberate effort and commitment.  The most important realization is that YOU are responsible for building the life you desire. Dreams won't materialize without action, and success comes from continuous effort, self-belief, and the courage to pursue what truly matters to you. This Exhibition presented by ANDERSON CONTEMPORARY CENTER represents the Dream Team of artists who believe in Living and Creating. We stand by the belief to "Just Do It!" Enjoy the show.

      Colors shape the way we interact with the world around us. The psychological association with certain colors makes us feel and act a certain way. We associate negative and positive feelings with certain colors, which shapes how we view the world. So, it makes sense that the energetic and spiritual realm also associate meaning to colors according to vibration. So what does the color red mean spiritually? The spiritual representation of red is power, energy, vitality, dominance, action, assertion, creation, survival, and passion. When a spiritual sign appears in your life that is red, it usually represents that you are ready to take action on a new goal or project that you have been putting off. The spiritual message is “have the courage to take action, and we’ll take care of the rest.” 
         The spiritual realm loves to give signs in the form of colors and symbols, and red is a color that they love to play with. Red emits a vibration that makes you want to take action or makes you feel powerful. It catches the eye, saying pay attention. Spirit loves the color red because you notice it and are more likely to take action. The color red is the longest on the visible light spectrum, and because it is most visible to our eye that means it is strongest in the physical realm. Because it is so physical, it is actually the most difficult energy for the spiritual realm to rest. That is why Spirit will send symbols with red attached to objects with a high spiritual realm to rest. That is why Spirit will send symbols with red attached to objects with a high spiritual vibration. When you see a lot of red in your life, it is important to pay attention to what objects the red is appearing with, and how you feel when you see it. Often, you will see flashes of red when it is most important to get present with your life and pay attention to what is happening around you. The color red is trying to pull you into the present moment and get you out of your head, where we are often thinking of the past or the future. We cannot take action on things that have happened in the past, and we cannot live in the future. The only time we have total control over our lives is when we are fully living in the present moment. Red is also a color that can give you the feeling of safety and security in your environment. It is the color of the root chakra, which makes us feel grounded in our current realities. If you are seeing a lot of red after a period of environmental change, it may be a sign that things are happening below the surface to build up a secure foundation once again. 

Spiritual Meaning of a Red Bird.
       Birds are messengers for the spirit realm. They are acutely sensitive to energy and are guided by forces that we cannot see with our physical eye. Many people feel like they have been visited by a spiritual being if a bird lands near them. Indeed this is true. Birds carry messages from the angelic realm, so pay attention to what the color is and what was happening when you saw or were visited by a bird. Red birds are connected to the direction North, which in shamanism or Native American tradition is seen as a connection to the home. They remind you to listen to your inner voice, and that will always guide you home. Your own inner wisdom is your North Star. It can also be a sign to remember that Earth is your home, and to treat it with respect. It maybe very healing for you to spend time reconnecting to the earth, such as gardening, hiking, or walking on the beach. A red bird can let you  know that you need to reconnect with your home. If you don't know how to tap into your own wisdom, or can’t seem to get clear messages from your higher self about the next steps, try to spend time in nature to see if that will give you clarity. 

Spiritual Meaning of a Red Sun
       Seeing, a red sun isn't necessarily spiritually symbolic, but it does carry a very high spiritual vibration. The sun is the most powerful source of life that we experience here on earth. Exposure to the sun is what gives everything on this planet life. Without vitamin D from the sun, our health declines. Similarly, red is the most vibrant and powerful color on the visible light spectrum. It gives us the psychological feeling of power, action, passion, confidence, and embodiment of Self. Therefore, staring at a red sunset is one of the most centering and grounding activities you can do. Places near the ocean that have access to seeing the sunset with vibrant reds are seen as high vibrational areas. Oceans themselves have a high vibration, but seeing the sunset adds a layer of deep, energetic reset. Interpreting the signs and color symbolism spirit is sending you is a fun way to develop your intuition and gain clarity on situation's that seem confusing or overwhelming. The spirit realm, communicates and vibrates, and when you are seeing certain colors appearing again and again, it is often spiritual communication of things happening behind the veil. Red is a powerful and active color, and we would not be able to create the world in the same way without it. The law of impermanence is a reminder that everything in the physical world will one day be gone. Red is the color of the physical world and the color of the root chakra. When you are going through a health crisis, remember that we all suffer from illness and eventually cease to exist. Celebrate the life that is healthy, but don't get overly attached to it. This may seem morbid or pessimistic, but it is actually deeply profound and a wise way to live. Fearing death and illness will only lead to suffering because it is inevitable that we will all go through it at some point in our lives. Interestingly, when someone loses their attachment, or expectation of things, being a certain way, they go through miraculous healing. Accepting and allowing things to happen, gives spirit the green light to transform your life without resistance. Many times people that have gone through a terrible illness have the greatest impact to help others. You never know the reasons why you are going through something until later. That is how spirit works. The message is to surrender to the law of nature and allow things to happen how they naturally happen. If you dream of a Red Sun, it could be a sign that you need to rebuild the foundation of your life. You may wake up with a solution in mind.

Growth is intricately intertwined with the growth of the collective. As we nurture our individual selves, we contribute to the collective consciousness, causing a positive ripple effect of positive change in the world around us.
    Amidst the noise of the external world, silence becomes a sacred pause, a moment of communion with the Universe. In this stillness we hear the echoes of our own heartbeats, the whispers of our soul, and the universal rhythms that bind us all. We also find the space to dream and to envision a life that aligns with our truest desires. We cast away the limitations imposed by external expectations and embrace the boundless possibilities that lie before us.
    It is in this sacred space of creation that we realize we hold the brush to paint the canvas of our destiny. As we cultivate a profound connection with ourselves, we become more authentic and present in our interactions with others. For when we engage in relationships from a place of self awareness, we form bonds that are built on honesty, empathy, and respect. At first glance, the notion of being alone may seem at odds with the pursuit of fulfilling relationships. After all, connection with others is the very essence of Human existence, indeed it is. But it is through the process of being alone that we unlock the door or portal to genuine connections. We begin to cultivate emotional intelligence, enabling ourselves to understand and empathize with our own feelings and those of others. Emotional intelligence serves as the bridge that connects us to the hearts of others, fostering genuine connections based on compassion and understanding.
    When we understand our emotions and needs, we can articulate them clearly and authentically to others. This open and honest exchange creates a safe space for vulnerability and trust to flourish.
    So these moments when we are alone serves as the interlude, the moments of reflection that enriches the subsequent connection with others. It is the pause that we gain the clarity to discern the relationships that nourish our souls and align with our values because being alone gives us the discernment to recognize when a relationship may not be serving our growth and well being. As we reach the culmination of this profound exploration, let us take a moment to reflect on the wisdom that has unfurled before us. Far from being an act of isolation, being alone, is a conscious choice to delve into the depths of our being, to understand who we really are. It is about embracing our individuality, cultivating self love, and extending compassion to others. Through this journey of self-discovery, we become beacons of inspiration, igniting positive transformation in the lives of those around us.
    Embrace the power of being alone as a second pilgrimage to your inner most self for an understanding to loving yourself. You unlock the key to truly understanding and loving others. Remember it is in the practice of being alone that we are guided towards self realization. Time spent alone to awaken the deep interconnection of all life is the reward.

Artist Statement:
From the perspective of a Bird, I soar through the skies, my wings beating effortlessly as
I gaze down at the world below. From my vantage, everything looks different. I see the
intricate patterns of the landscape, the winding roads, and the tiny buildings that seem
like toys.
Seeing the world from above as I fly, I notice things that would be invisible from the
ground. I see the way the light reflects off the water, creating a shimmering effect that's
mesmerizing. I see the shapes of the clouds, the way they morph and change as the
wind blows. And I see the vast expanse of the earth, stretching out before me like an
endless canvas.
A new perspective having a bird's eye view changes everything. I see the world in a new
light, literally. I see the relationships between things that would be invisible from the
ground. I see the way the world is connected, the way everything is intertwined.
And I see the beauty in the smallest details, the way a single leaf can be a work of art.
Flying high as I soar through the skies, I feel free. I feel like I can see everything, like I
have a bird's eye view of the entire world. And in a way, I do. I see the world from a
perspective that few others can experience. And it's a perspective that's full of wonder,
full of awe, and full of beauty.

    On this journey, we realize that it is not about seeking perfection, but rather it is about understanding and nurturing the spark of divinity that resides within. This spark, buried beneath the layers of conditioning and social expectations holds the key to unlocking our true potential. That’s why being alone is not being lonely. It is an act of self love and self compassion. It is in this Solitude that we become our own best friend, our own confident and our own cheerleader. We learn to be gentle with ourselves, forgiving our mistakes and celebrating our victories. We also find the courage to confront the shadow that lurk within us the insecurities, the doubts and the fears. The shadows, like dark clouds in the sky, obscure the brilliance of our authentic self. But as we shine the light of awareness upon them, we see that they are mere illusions, transient and powerless in the face of our inner strength. It is in embracing solitude that we realize our interdependence with the world. We understand that our personal growth is key to all understanding. Stay Tuned for Part 5

In the fast paced modern world, the idea of solitude often evokes discomfort. The allure of constant external stimulation, coupled with the fear of confronting our inner-most thoughts, can lead us to seek solace in the distraction of the outside world.
    But why not find solace in ourselves? Simply being alone in the present moment, feeling every detail of that moment. To be alone is to be brave, for it demands facing ourselves unadorned, without the armor of social rules, without the protection of external validations. It beckons us to acknowledge our vulnerabilities and strengths, our dreams and fears, and the series of emotions that shape our perceptions. It is amidst this silence that we rediscover the wisdom that lies dormant within us. The wisdom to recognize that true growth stems from embracing our imperfections, not from trying to mask them. The beauty of self-improvement lies in acknowledging that we are a work in progress, forever evolving and evolving.
Stay Tuned for Part 4

     This act of being alone with oneself is not an escape from reality, but rather a pilgrimage to the core of our existence. It is a conscious decision to peel away the layers of masks and pretenses, to confront the complexities and vulnerabilities that reside within. As we embark on this journey, we begin to better understand our experiences, emotions and aspirations. Within this understanding, we explore the nuances of our thoughts and feelings, giving rise to deep insights. In the solitude of self-reflection, we gain clarity like a calm lake, reflecting the brilliance of the stars above. We begin to understand the patterns that govern our behaviors, the roots of our fears and the aspirations that stir our souls.
     Though this process of introspection we unearth the seeds of growth, that lies dormant within. It is the realization that we are both sculptor and sculpture, the master of our destiny and the clay to be molded. True transformation on this path emerges as we embrace the process of self improvement with patience and compassion. We cultivate the garden of our thoughts, uprooting the weeds of self-doubt and nurturing the blossoms of self-love.
     It is in these moments of solitude that the symphony of personal development reaches its peak. Like as butterfly emerging from its cocoon, we shed the limitations of the past and spread our wings to soar towards new horizons.
Stay Tuned for Part 3

In the realm of our adventures through life, we encounter a fundamental concept the significance of both solitude and companionship. When we seek swift brief voyages, the path of solitude beckons, allowing us to venture with unburdened steps. However, when the road ahead stretches long and arduous, the allure of companionship calls us to walk together, united by a shared purpose. But amidst this contemplation lies a profound question, who accompanies us on our odyssey?
The answer holds great import, for not all company is beneficial.
At times, togetherness can prove burdonsome. Thus, we are reminded of the essential truth that, in the grand tapestry of existence, we come into this world alone, and likewise, we shall depart in solitude.
To embark upon the art of being alone, to find solace in one's own company, is a skill of great value. Only when we learn to cherish our moments of solitude can that harmony of togetherness be truly realized. You see, as human beings, we possess a unique quality, the ability to simply be without the compulsive need for action. Our consciousness grants us the wisdom to act with purpose and discernment, setting us apart from creatures driven solely by instinct. However, when people gather, the dynamics shift and the currents of compulsive action often surge. Associations form where purpose guides the collective or people unite, bound by a more distinct purpose. Alternatively, in a crowd, the current of compulsion can sweep us away, engulfing the individual thought.
To obtain our full potential as human beings, we must embrace the ability to sit in stillness, to contemplate and simply BE.
This is an individual endeavor, even when we unite as a plural, "we".
Each member of the collective remains as indivisible entity, united in the oneness of their being. Each of us is a unique masterpiece, woven from the threads of our experiences, beliefs, and aspirations. It is in these moments of being alone that we paint the canvas of our existence with vivid colors, shaping our identity.
First we need to understand the essence of being alone. A transformative path that leads to conscious evolution. In a world bustling with connections and interactions, the art of being alone may seem counterintuitive. Yet it is in these solitary moments that we embark on a voyage of self-discovery. To be alone is not a mere isolation, but a sacred communication with the self. It is a choice to detach from the clamor of external influences and plunge into the depths of your own thoughts and emotions.
It it here in the Sanctuary of solitude you find the mirror that reflects your true essence. In the embrace of solitude, we encounter the wisdom to perceive life's panorama with newfound clarity. For amidst the noise of the world, we often lose sight of our true purpose and direction. But in the stillness of being alone the noise recedes allowing us to hear the subtle whispers of our soul.
It is the crucible of solitude that we can plant the seeds of self reflection, nurturing them with patience and compassion. As we water the garden of our thoughts and nurture the roots of our emotions, we cultivate a profound connection with our innermost selves.
Thus, the concept of being alone invites us to explore the depths of our being,
uncovering the essence that sets us apart as human beings.
Stay tuned for Part 2

If asked what light is, one could say that it is one of the most basic elements of our world and our universe, as we perceive it. It is through sight that we receive ninety percent of our information.

It is through light that the energy from the sun is transferred to us. The sun's energy supports the food chain, plants use it to turn H2O and CO2 into energy usable by other organisms.

Solar energy is also used indirectly to produce all of the fuels that we consume daily.

Light can be produced in a variety of ways. Our sun, like other stars, uses nuclear fusion to produce energy in the form of light and radiation. We can produce light artificially using several methods. If one starts a fire, it produces light and heat. (Heat, which is infrared radiation, is another type of light energy.) The light and heat are a result of a chemical reaction, the combining of oxygen with carbon in the wood.

Final Thoughts
If something or someone disturbs our calm it may be worth asking ourselves what it is that moved us. Is it because we see something in them that we have in ourselves, lurking in our darker depths? Or perhaps it is to ask ourselves why it bothers us, so that we reflect and purify ourselves. Maybe that is why we take notice of something or feel irritated by it.

In the same way that the movement of water reveals forces beneath the surface, our reactions can reveal aspects of ourselves that may remain hidden.

By observing the way of water, we can appreciate not only the many benefits it brings to our physical health, but the myriad of lessons it has to teach that can help our mental health.

Reflect
When water is calm, it can reflect a clear picture of anything it greets. It can serve to show the observer that which they might otherwise not see. But if water is turbulent or murky, then what's reflected with be hazy and unclear.

Similarly, when our minds are turbulent- when we are angry, resentful, vengeful, or moved by powerful emotion- we can't reflect on ourselves and what is happening. This makes it impossible to see a situation clearly, and our vision is distorted. When we can keep calm, we are able to reflect on things in a much clearer and more accurate way.

Self-reflection is always important, but perhaps no more so than when we are going through a difficulty. Let's all remember to calm ourselves, take a moment to reflect, and see what we can learn from the situation.

Philosophers and poets have long said that what is outside of us is merely a reflection of what is within. What lives in the heart, comes out of the mouth. And in a similar vein, the Bible says, "As water reflects the face, so one's life reflects the heart." (Proverbs 27:19)
Stay tuned for Final Thoughts, Part 7.

Be Strong Yet Gentle

"Nothing in the world is as soft and yielding as water, yet for dissolving the hard and inflexible, nothing can surpass it."
-Lao Tzu, Tao Te Ching

Water takes on many forms, and in those forms, it can be solid and strong or gentle and pliant. Even when it's flowing, water can wield incredible strength. At its most still and docile, it can contain tremendous depth. Water has power and endurance amid the toughest of conditions but will return to calm as an inevitable natural state.

In people, a tendency toward calm is an attribute of good character. While water can overpower its surroundings, as in a massive tidal wave, this is not water's nature, but a consequence of its environment. Water is, by nature, humble and serene.

Yet, as the Daoist sage Lao Tzu noted: "All streams flow to the sea because it is lower than they are. Humility gives it its power. If you want to govern the people, you must place yourself below them. If you want to lead the people, you must learn how to follow them."

This gentleness is not without power. Just as a calm person can better reason with others and melt away disagreement, water is able to dissolve more substances than any other liquid.
Stay tuned for Part 6, Reflect

Water flows throughout nature, in oceans, lakes, streams, creeks, and rivers. It doesn't let things get in ts way or impede its path. Nor does it resist its natural cycle of change from its water cycle of evaporation to condensation to precipitation, or from changing its state from liquid to gas to solid, as the situation may require.

Just as water adapts and takes on different forms, so must we continuously let go of our current state in order to change and grow.

Confucius said, "As the water shapes itself to the vessel that contains it, so a wise man adapts himself to circumstances."

Change is one of the few things we can count on in life, but for many of us, just the thought of change can stir stress. Yet, if things are meant to change, no amount of resistance can stop it. If we are rigid and let our minds form fixed ideas about how things should be, then we are more apt to falter in the face of difficulty. But when we are fluid, our minds open up, we are flexible, we adapt, and we grow.

When we understand that we are best served by flowing with what comes, it will be easier to let go of what was and accept what is. And when we do, we might even find that life has offered some amazing opportunities.
Tune in for upcoming, Part 5, Be Strong yet Gentle

Water's importance to Health
Water is common, innocuous, and essential. Like love and health, it's easy to take water for granted until it's missing.

Water is the foundation fo each cell, of each organ, and of the body as a whole. Two-thirds of water in the body is intracellular, while the remaining one-third is extracellular. However, water's concentration within the various parts of the body differs. For example, according to studies, the brain and heart are made up of approximately 73 percent water, the skin is 64 percent water and the lungs are 83 percent water. Even the hardest parts of the body, the bones, contain 31 percent water.

In a way, water's simplicity is part of its potency. It's the ultimate enhancer and enabler. As such, it serves many functions in the body. It insulates the spinal cord, brain, and other organs, lubricates and acts as a shock absorber for the joints, heps to regulate body temperature through respiration and perspiration, flushes waste and toxins from the body, carries oxygen to the cells, and helps to break food down into nutrients that the body can absorb.

Anyone who's been in the ocean with a scrape or cut, or gargled with salt water to ease a sore throat, can attest to water's ability to heal. Keeping our bodies well-hydrated plays an essential role in memory and focus, in boosting our energy and mood levels, and in maintaining proper blood pressure. It also helps to reduce the effects of aging, helps to keep constipation and illnesses a bay, and improves our physical performance.

As with all things in life, balance is key. Too  much water in the body can lead to issues such as congestive heart failure, nausea, diarrhea, or low sodium and other electrolytes. Conversely, too little water, dehydration, can lead to things such as acute kidney failure, joint pain, muscle cramping, and an excess of sodium and electrolytes, to name just a few examples.

Clearly, water has a tremendous impacty on our physical health. But if we slow down long enough to appreciate the wonders of water- wonders that haven't been lost on the poets, philosophers, and spiritually enlightened of the world- the life lessons water has to teach can also have a significant impact on how we view the world, which can have a profound effect on our mental health. 
Remember to drink plenty of fresh clean Spring water. 
Stay tuned for Part 4, Lessons From Water: Let Go and Flow

Absolutely, my favorite Spring meal. I am always looking for great ways to boost my intake of Protein and fiber. Chia seeds are Indeed a powerhouse. Here is a fantastic way to increase your fiber and protein. A wonderful Salad meal- steamed broccoli, shaved carrots, toasted pumpkin seeds dressed with a light fresh Green salsa dressing (onion, jalepano, avocado, zucchini, red pepper, olive oil, key lime juice, salt, coriander, fresh cilantro, and cayenne pepper.) Served with a Side dish of Chia seed pudding and Blueberries. Delicious and nutritious.

Features of Water
Water makes up more than two-thirds (71%) of the Earth's surface. It continually moves and shifts, existing in its different forms in oceans, lakes, clouds, the air, vegetation, glaciers, and snow, not mention what is underground.

Water has some unique characteristics. For example, while substances can take on the various forms of solid, liquid, or gas, water is unusual in that, unlike other substances, it doesn't require extreme temperatures to do so, rather, it changes under conditions that life can tolerate.

In addition, when solids of a substance form, the atoms typically come closer together to make the substance more dense. Water molecules, on the other hand, form rings when they freeze, making the substance less dense. Thus, while most solids sink in  water, solid water (ice) is able to stay afloat.

Water's unique features are what allow it to be everywhere and to impact everything, including out own bodies and health. These properties are also what give it deeper symbolic meaning.

For instance, water is never lost; it just changes form. It "adapts" to its environment in ways that enhance the lives of all. For instance, under heat, it elevates and gives rise to clouds that provide a divine vision that has moved people for millennia. And when water freezes into buoyant ice, it provides a kind of insulation for the fish and plant life that remain below.
Stay tuned for Part 3 Water's importance to Health.

The Way of Water
Water can teach us profound lessons about how to live a dignified life.
It falls from the sky, flows all around us, and is essential to our existence. It purifies, cleanses, nourishes and gives life.

Water. It doesn't just surround us, it's within us. In fact, scientists estimate that water comprises 65% to 75% of the adult human body, while for infants, it's even higher at an estimated 85%. That's pretty amazing, when you think about it. As vital as water is to life, it's little surprise that it has provided inspiration and insight from ancient times to today.

Upcoming: Features of Water, part 2

Beautiful Generative Art.

We need optimism, not accusations:

Art that Speaks with Grace.
Art that astonishes.
Art that listens.
Art that unifies.
Art that transforms.
Art that heals.

The way you see the future has a strong bearing on what your path will be.

Just as despair can come to one only from other human beings, hope too, can be given to one only by other human beings.  When Hope is damaged, it affects more than one person. When real hope is denied. It is hard to replace. When a person has lost hope it can be hard to find motivation again. All of these statements hold true. The most important impact we have on each other is through how we affect each other's hopes. Hope breeds hope. When hope exists, we engage with our environment more. Hope engages our creativity and our problem-solving skills. Sometimes we may be called upon to help someone. Keep their Hope alive. That is a noble thing to do; when we help others remain, hopeful, WE, in turn see that we are constantly motivating ourselves to stay hopeful as well. Being a positive influence on the world around, you will inspire and motivate people to stay hopeful in their own goals. Each one of us has the capacity to influence each other to stay hopeful.

"Where there is hope, there is life. It fills us with fresh courage, and makes a strong again." -Anne Frank

The capacity to Hope is an indispensable human quality; even in times of crisis, when confidence and trust has been broken, hope sustains us in our living.

I encourage you to be kind and helpful towards one another. You never know just how much you can change someone's life.