It may be that when we no longer know what to do
we have come to our real work,
and that when we no longer know which way to go
we have come to our real journey.
The mind that is not baffled is not employed.
The impeded stream is the one that sings.
Wendell Berry
A perfect pairing of the Berry quote and your image. Beautiful.
ReplyDeleteI really want to remember that last line. I hope it comes into my mind when I most need it.
ReplyDeleteThe lucky ones are those whose real work has helped them on the journey towards making their soul sing.
ReplyDeleteMay yours sing not only for 2013 but for many years beyond.
Thanks, TERESA. Glad you liked the photo and quote.
ReplyDeleteYes, BARB. As one who as been an impeded stream from time to time, it's good to remember that challenges also create their own wonderful discoveries.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the comment, FRIKO, and may your soul also sing in the coming year.
ReplyDeleteI really love the photo - and Berry's words are quite true.
ReplyDeleteOh yes! How true.
ReplyDeleteThanks George,
Andy
Just so stunning.
ReplyDeleteSo we can sing, and we can be silent, for sometimes there is no movement at all.
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ReplyDeleteThanks, ROWAN. That photo was actually taken in your part of the world—the Yorkshire Dales.
ReplyDeleteGlad you liked the poem, ANDY. Happy new year.
ReplyDeleteWell said, RUTH, and there can also be movement in both song and silence.
ReplyDeleteI am sure this is absolutely true George, it's just that it takes me some time to get my head round it.
ReplyDeleteI was not familiar with this particular Wendell Berry poem. This one is a keeper for me -- such wise words. Thanks -- barbara
ReplyDeleteThe Berry poem and the photo - how good a fit they are! Thanks.
ReplyDeleteThanks, PAT. I read the poem as saying that impediments can lead us to the next stage of our growth and creativity.
ReplyDeleteHi, BARBARA. Glad you liked the poem. Wendell Berry is a wise man, and I heartily recommend not only his poetry, but his wonderful essays.
ReplyDeleteThanks, LORNA. Yes, I also thought this particular photo captured the spirit of something both impeded and beautiful.
ReplyDeleteLiving where I do, directly beside a stream with a purling riffle, I know the truth of Berry's words—both literally and in life application as poetic wisdom.
ReplyDeleteA wonderful post…and a terrific photo.
Thanks, GRIZZ. Yes, there is a certain magic when there is great truth and beauty in both the literal and the metaphorical meaning of a line of poetry. Glad you liked this post. Like you, I have decided to attempt more postings, albeit more succinct ones, in the coming year.
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