Many of us feel that we are in the network of things, operating freely and doing what we choose to do according to our own individualistic preferences and whims. Few of us consider that it may be the other way around. Few of us consider the possibility that the vast majority of us are a projection of the system, an extension of the system. Most of us were inculcated by the system and, when we function and react, it is the system operating. That system, developed and maintained by man’s tradition, seems to give us much security and order. However, if that very system is largely based on fragmentation, separation, domination, and friction — which it is — then the security is fallacious… non-existent, or limited. Many of us accept — without question — that there are separate countries and separate individuals (these individuals each with their own separate ego). None of this may be truly separate, but the system has us perceive and react to accept that; then friction and wars (and suffering) go on and on.
We were taught that we are separate from our fears. We were taught that we are separate from “others.” We were taught that nature and man are (somehow) separate. Our “I”s, our “me”s, our separative countries and religions, may be essentially a projection of the system, where there is no real freedom whatsoever. Few of us step out of it (into a larger whole that is not merely absorbed). Most of us are content to remain in (and “as”) the system. We think it offers security and joy. However, look at the world around you and how people react in in it (and “as” it). There is overwhelming disorder in what is currently going on in (and “as”) society. We need to change. We need to change, not according to more ideas about how things “should be,” not by more political and religious differences, or according to the same old, traditional ways. Real wholeness, real integrity is beyond the system; however, few care to truly move beyond the system. It is like forever staying in a limited, rusty old cage (and thinking that you are joyous and free).
Beyond the cage (1) Photo by Thomas Peace c. 2017
Beyond the cage (2) Photo by Thomas Peace c. 2017
Tom's Nature-up-close Photography and Mindfulness Blog 
I like your comments here and think you are right how we are to uncomfortable to move away from the society as we know it and walk towards a new more mature society thank you for sharing I think the more we share they more it will help move society towards something better
Thank you, Sue! 🙂
Yes, we were taught so many restricting things and how hard it is to shake off that rusty old cage.
Stunning photo btw 🙂
Yes, Scifi! More need to see why it is so very necessary to shake it off. Thank you! 🙂
🙂
What a face!
Rather alien-like, Karen, isn’t it?! 🙂
Yes, it certainly is!
you are completely right, Thomas, very good thoughts, as usual, have a nice Sunday, regards Mitza
Thanks much, Mitza! Most people need to see why they need to change. However, most don’t see. You don’t continue to walk toward a venomous snake if you clearly see that it’s a venomous snake.
Hoping your week is full of discovery! 🙂
wow.. great picture 🙂
Thanks, Leyla! 🙂
Tom, I really enjoy your photos and wanted to give you a thumb’s up! But more importantly say that I totally agree that we’re in a “system” that makes us feel as if we’re all separate, but we’re more connected with nature and each other than we realize. 🙂
Yes, Sonyo, and thanks! 🙂 We must go beyond a lot of miseducation, primitive tradition, and separative image-making!
You’re so right, Tom! Such a system is everywhere. I probably mentioned before that the system or rules placed onto people at the work place was there to stay, sadly to say…
Thanks, Amy! 🙂 Yes, work places can especially be tough… full of bureaucracy, power, and manipulation.
Amazing picture Tom ! So lucky! 🙂
Many thanks, Marcela! 🙂
Interesting article. Excellent photos as well.
So well said, though sad that it was a joy to read. We need to hear these words. I will share it in my social media if ok.
Reblogged this on A Healing Grief and commented:
Look at this amazing blog post we just found.
Everyday, we see organizations, families trying to mould their members in it’s own way. Suppressing any disturbance which comes in their way and projecting good image of the existing organization or system even though some part of such disturbance may cause betterment in future