Mountains

Mountain Refuge

Restless and worn, I arrive at this remote tarn. A sanctum of refuge far from the reaches of our busy society. In contrast to the modern world, this place generously pours out its strength into me. I leave that evening not as I arrived, but remade anew.

© copyright by Joseph Ondrako

Expectations

The anticipation of expectations realized runs through my mind nearly every time I head out with the camera. Every once in a while, all the elements align. One small, lonely cloud drifts into the center of the sky in frame about 15 minutes before sunset. Then a most unexpected and dramatic change occurs. The single cloud started to expand in all directions like a fisherman’s net expands as it slowly sinks in water. As the last rays of light became rich in color, that single cloud continued to engulf the sky, catching beautiful golden and then red, pink and purple light.

© copyright by Joseph Ondrako

Fall's Sanctuary

It’s the first day of October, and the air is crisp, cold and still. I hike alone in the darkness. The trail is damp and quiet. My breath is visible, making small clouds of condensation revealed by the light of the headlamp. I arrived at this location a little earlier than expected and try to take in the beauty of this moment. The way all the elements came together as the first sun rays touched the mountain tops was completely humbling. We have no control over any of this other than to prepare and make the most of what’s given.

© copyright by Joseph Ondrako

Marigold Morning

What will happen from moment to moment as life unfolds through pages of time? We have some influence, but no control. Often our emotions are thrown into a cyclone of disorder when life reads differently than the script we’ve prepared. Expectations are the enemy of peace. They steal the gifts of the day’s offerings before we are seated at the table. Be present and lay down your script, with eyes wide open to see anew once more.

© copyright by Joseph Ondrako