An Island in Time

Above and below, a tree-themed candelabra I recently purchased. While not officially Judaica, with its seven tealight candle cups, this candelabra makes a perfect candleholder for Shabbat.  It is, indeed, a tree of life. Recently, I resumed the practice of lighting candles for Shabbat on Friday evenings and reserving the period for time spent alone in quiet. Obviously, given the photos taken, I am not shomer Shabbos, but I think there is real benefit to taking time out, creating a definitive break from the workweek, in order to relax, step back, and cultivate peace.  Just the opportunity to stop and appreciate the miracle of life is a welcome change from our frantic comings and goings. During this time, we can cultivate calm and stillness, the sanity that comes with withdrawing from our frenetic pace of life, in order to enjoy time spent deliberately and with careful attention. This is the beautiful sanctuary, the island in time, called Shabbat.

"Release" in Downtown Phoenix

For many years I have been curious about this statue, located at the light rail stop on Central Avenue, just off of Roosevelt. I always assumed that this was an interpretation of the mythical phoenix bird, the very symbol of the city that bears its name.  But it is not. Little did I know, until now, that this statue carries a very different message. "Release the Fear" suggests that we can overcome our fears, even reclaim things that can hurt us and regenerate them as part of something larger that can inspire us and help us to rise above. I like that this statue was cast from confiscated weapons. If only people would lay down their weapons and contribute the material towards the creation of awe-inspiring art. Make art, not war; inspire others, regard them with compassion, and cause no harm.

Grounded

This is how I spend some of my time while waiting for the bus, staring up at the ascent of trees. I find myself mesmerized by the great, crooked fork of their boughs and branches, their leaves dappled with sunlight and shade, their steady reach heavenward. Here, against the harsh, industrial glow of a streetlamp, this organic detail anchors me to the warmth and beauty of the natural world. It renews my sense of peace, and faith, and hope.

A Place for Peace

Peace Wall, Bisbee, AZ

Today, I made a day-trip to one of my favorite historic small towns: Bisbee, Arizona. Located in the midst of rolling desert hills, Bisbee has all of the characteristics of many old Western towns. Once a place known for its mining industry (think: Bisbee turquoise), it is now a quaint, rambling little town that has maintained its historic character by preserving its original architecture. If you love art galleries and antique stores, and a quirky, hippie sensibility, then Bisbee is the place for you. I love Bisbee. This was my first time in Bisbee for almost four years, and the first visit since my move back to Arizona. I was not disappointed. I was happy to find this mural still gracing the facade of this wall, as I wanted to take a new photograph of it. The original photograph that I took, about five years ago, did not come out right, but this one turned out very well. I have more photos of the town, but it's late and I am a little tired. Tomorrow I will post the rest of them. Until then: Peace be with you.