It’s time to retire my Sunday Break posts. They were fine – just a photo paired with a quote. But looking back, it was kind of ironic. What was meant to be a break ended up becoming a task. I’d spend more time searching for the perfect photo and then hunting for a quote to match it. The result? I ended up missing posting on Sundays altogether.
Enough of that! I’m thrilled to announce a new project I’m starting called the SUDDENLY AWAKEN series. It’s all about living in the moment and finding inspiration in everyday life. While I may not feel like I’m in a place to inspire others just yet, I certainly find inspiration everywhere – in my family, connecting with people, reading books, taking photos, watching videos, and simply being out in the world.
The other day, I was at the Aurora Public Library picking up some new books, and it struck me – a whole year had passed since I got my library card. I was tempted to give myself a little pat on the back for sticking with regular library visits, but I could only manage to pat my shoulder!
While sitting in the passenger seat, looking out the window, it hit me – why not document all the books I’ve read over the past year (and beyond)? I want to remember the conversations I’ve had and the great ideas I’ve come across, like Matthew’s. It’s about cherishing those moments that truly inspire me.
Last month, I randomly picked up a book at the library – Coraline by Neil Gaiman. It’s definitely a fantasy novel, and at first, I wasn’t sure if I liked it or if I was into the dark mood of the book. But something kept me reading. My curiosity about what would happen next kept pulling me in, and by the end, I found that it didn’t really matter whether I liked the story or not. What stood out to me the most was a particular passage in the book:
Coraline sighed. “‘You really don’t understand, do you?’ she said. ‘I don’t want whatever I want. Nobody does. Not really. What kind of fun would it be if I just got everything I ever wanted? Just like that, and it didn’t mean anything. What then?“’” – Neil Gaiman, Coraline, page 120.
That question really got me thinking. What would life be like if we always got exactly what we wanted, without effort or meaning? It’s one of those things that sticks with you.
And that’s the beauty of today’s world—thanks to the internet, we have endless opportunities to share ideas. Digital photography has also opened doors for capturing those special, meaningful moments. It’s all about cherishing the things that make life interesting, and finding inspiration in the unexpected.
I recommend checking out Matt Maddocks’ latest post in the community FOCUS column, titled “Point of Privilege.” In this piece, he dives into the politics of culture, sharing his reflections in “The Politics of Culture, Two Weeks on Two Wheels.” He’s hitting the road outside of Aurora in search of answers, and I’m sure he’ll come back with some fascinating insights to share. It’s definitely one to keep an eye on!
COMMENTS
Michael said: August 13, 2012 at 17:52
“Perhaps Matthew to take over your Sunday series or provide periodic guest postings. He could provide inspirational drawings for you to post or have an outlet to share his artistic capabilities with the world.”
Anna Lozyk Romeo said: August 14, 2012 at 13:05
“Michael, thank you for great suggestion. The world of toys and games is taking over, so I constantly looking for ideas to ensure he gets a dose of reading, writing and other hands on activities. I will see if I can convince him to contribute, LOL.”
Marvin said: August 14, 2012 at 22:44
“I like your blogging efforts, whether it’s a Sunday Break or a Suddenly Awaken post, or whatever. You always have something interesting to say. Aurora sounds like such a nice place. Not like Aurora Colorado where I once lived.”
