“Mine,” upon looking as a distance,
fed the content of recognition to
an “I” that was another concoction of thought/thinking. Possession
was what it was all about.
Then, looking out the window… was a perception of a curb and
some oncoming cars which were a human who
was standing outdoors and getting ready to cross the street…
(only the indoor dweller did not really see it in that particular way).
After a bit, the brushing of teeth took place, as if something separate from
the teeth possessed the teeth (as “its” teeth).
Steps were taken towards the door,
which was subsequently opened,
while the mind remained closed.
Outdoors, the “looking at a bird,” of course, consisted of
distance and separation,
which helped to reinforce the assumption
of a separate “I,” a separate “me.” And a label, which
existed in (and “as”) the brain, automatically said “a dove,”
without really fully perceiving without fragmentation whatsoever.
Steps along the sidewalk consisted of “my shoes” and “my
stride.” And these steps were steps very much apart from
the bird, at a distinct, separative distance.
Joyous and carefree was the avian creature,
and “flying” beats “walking” any old day.
Tom's Nature-up-close Photography and Mindfulness Blog 
“All mine” this pretty Mourning Dove seems to say … this was quite a feast and no doubt made its day. It’s been a tough season for our fine-feathered friends.
Yes, Linda, the avian flu makes me very concerned. Whole species of birds are missing from this area, including sea gulls. I sure hope that things improve. I did see some crows the other day, and that sure is a good sign!
It worries me as well Tom. Now some people have died as a result of the avian flu. We don’t have a lot of songbirds at the Park right now, but I suspect they are looking for homeowners’ feeders … we do have crows. And a lot of geese, more than usual and I don’t know what’s up with that. First we worry about the butterflies and now the birds. What is next?
Wow Tom this is a very interesting way you present for perception….I like it … it opens a door and at the end of course you have the BEST picture of one of my most beloved birds! Thank you!!!!
Glad you like it, Sara. Far too many people perceive in “ordinary” ways,often exclusively involving fragmentation, separation, and robotic-second-hand labeling. Such ordinary looking reinforces division and indifference; it reinforces conflict and stale secondhandedness.
They are an innocent species, leaving other creatures to exist in harmony.
I love the feel of being inside your head listening to your thoughts as they arise. Enjoyed this very “human” piece, Tom. Of course, the image, as usual, was a great accompaniment to your words.
Thanks, Susi. Sometimes, like here, the image is tailored to fit the piece, but oftentimes it is just a nice accompanying glimse at nature. 😊
You’re welcome!