Most of us have (and are) an obsession with patterns. Our brains are almost constantly churning with thought after thought, which consists of pattern after pattern. These patterns of thoughts are symbolic, fragmentary, sequential, and limited, and they require time to exist; indeed, they are time. Each one thinks that he or she formulates and creates these patterns of thought/thinking. In actuality, each one consists of these patterns… and they are not spontaneously created; they occur habitually, via conditioning. They occur as one series of reactions after another. (Additionally, they produce the image of a separate “thinker,” not vice versa.)
It is prudent to often go beyond existing as a series of habitual reactions. Then, the mind may be in a more holistic, blissful domain of profound living (and not mere bourgeois, robotic reacting). Patterns are sequences in (and as) time. It is wise, truly spiritual, and refreshing to often go beyond what is ordinary, mechanical, and dull.
Tom's Nature-up-close Photography and Mindfulness Blog 
I am not obsessed with patterns, they just drive me nuts. š
Ha! Good one! š Patterns sure have their important place; but too many of us put all our eggs in only that one domain or basket (wherein the patterns are overly separate and not of a unified whole).
I like how your “user name” coincides with todays blog post picture! š
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Nature’s patterns are truly fascinating! This ladybug’s perfectly symmetrical spots against the purple flower remind us that even the smallest creatures display incredible mathematical precision. It’s a beautiful example of how our minds are drawn to recognize and find meaning in patterns. ššø #NaturePatterns #Mindfulness
Yes, nature’s patterns are fascinating and magical. Additionally, really, they can involve much violence and competition. Ladybugs eat other insects, for example, which (though necessary for them) is a form of violence. But the patterns of nature are endlessly amazing and interesting. As i said to nonsmokingladybug (in the comment above) patterns sure have their important place. However, we also need to look beyond into a more holistic realm (beyond the patterns of separation, limitation, individuality, and rudimentary perception). š
An amazing thought and post. Whenever i want to clear the mind i go into nature and get lost in it meaning the tries to find and hold on to a pattern but nature is vast and limitless in her variations i have no choice but to give in to the wild.
The Ladybugs are a good example of perfection in nature – talk about having your dots perfectly aligned and in such vibrant colors as well. We are drawn to them so much, we make wishes with them by catching, then clasping them in our hands, then releasing them while making a wish. You and your macro lens have captured the hard and shiny shell. Speaking of minute details and hard and shiny shells, it looks like our respective states will dodge the invasion of the 17-year Brood XIV of periodical cicadas this year … don’t worry because the regular humming cicadas will be along soon enough.
The humming of the cicadas is so symphony-like and charming! š
When i release the Ladybugs and make a wish, this is what i wish for:I wish that they do not sneak into the house again. They are sure good at getting in and crawling around on things. The temperature indoors is great, but there are no aphids for them to feast on in the house. š
Summer is not complete without the cicadas!
Yes, that is a good wish about the Ladybugs Tom. They are likely to multiply until you are pulling your hair out. We got Carpenter Ants many years ago and it was a debacle getting rid of them. We had Ortho for years and then our HVAC tech suggested a small company which fumigated with Marigold dust, not harsh chemicals and it killed them off in one session!
“go beyond existing as a series of habitual reactions” Yes, to this! āØ
Great, Michele, and hopefully your answer of “Yes” is tied to more than just habitual reactions. š
ha! šš»