This reminds me of a hit piece I recently read about dog owners…the gist was basically "how we owners are quite lame and ridiculous as we spendhours on end watching dogs chase sticks, balls and their own tails…how simple-minded we must be to be entertained by this etc"….but the thing that captivates us is actually to witness a creature that fully and completely exists in their joy and in the moment. We just want to share in that without ambition, worry, greed or, worst of all, self-consciousness..just like your bud :)
Yes, there is something so enthralling about any creature that is completely engaged in the moment. Ahh to be free of self-consciousness — wouldn’t that be a treat.
Thanks Simon, as always, your comments are much appreciated :)
Hahhaa I want to meet your mate Michael. He sounds like a freaking legend! I really enjoyed reading all about him and how he makes life playful again. Now — where can I get my own copy of the sword-weilding-barbie-riding-T-Rex hood ornament?
Hahahhahaa! You know it's Art with a captial 'A' when there are no doubles or reproductions :') actually makes me kinda happy hahah. Yes, I think my version of it would be a mermaid riding a whale.... Ah how this idea got my imagination working :) testament to your writing and your mates creativity!
-- Engaging in activities simply for the sake of doing them is a testament to the beauty of being present in the moment. It’s about embracing the intrinsic value of experience over outcome, finding solace in the act itself rather than fixating on the end result. In these moments, we discover the purity of joy and fulfillment, liberated from the constraints of productivity or expectation. It’s a celebration of spontaneity, curiosity, and the innate human desire for exploration. By immersing ourselves in these experiences, we cultivate a deeper connection to ourselves and the world around us, enriching our lives with meaning and authenticity. Xo.
Thank you, Thaissa. As always, I am in awe of the way you craft your words. And yes, I couldn’t agree more, engaging in activities simply for the sake of doing them is such a powerful thing to do :)
Yes! Thank you for putting this into words. I've always been the serious type as well, rigidly carving out my days. Friends that remind me of whimsy and play keep me sane.
Ahhh Will, it’s nice to know I’m not alone in being the serious type who carves out his days — it is most certainly a plight. And, like you, I’m so grateful for the people who help me relax a little :)
And Michael, you may be amused to hear that for me, reading your writing represents that same energy of rascality, whimsy, "infectious magic" and tongue-in-cheek delight😁 "I have seen how his whimsical nature reminds others not to take themselves so seriously." Yep - true of you too😁
An excellent reminder - play is never a waste of time! I love that you used the analogy of the majesty of the ocean with how your friend makes you feel. I hope he reads this because those are amazing words.
Thank you, Donna. Your kind words about my writing are much appreciated.
I actually went and visited my friend last night and delivered him a printed copy of the piece so he could read it when he pleases — it was also a good excuse to catch up :)
From the opening description of the hood ornament, I was hooked. I love the idea of you staring at that glorious adornment, grinning but also thinking about why that grin is so full. I read this as a toast to your friend as a person who not only injects your life with whimsy but models its integration. I am glad this person (and this good ornament) are in your life.
Thank you, Michael. I really appreciate your kind words. And yes, there were so many times I was left grinning because of my friends presence or that whimsical hood ornament that eventually I started to wonder what made that grin so strong — the result of my pondering was this piece.
"JamQuackster"...! 💚🦆 God I want a duck... Great post, Michael, how great to have such a madcap friend, the power of whimsy is vastly underrated... Barbie and her steed vaguely remind me of a bong we once made, called "The Golden Gun" - me and the friend from high school who inspired Lamb, as it happens. ;)
NO. It is not. Never ever ever. 🥰 Being one of those driven types myself, who has an equally big kid inside, I had to rediscover this lost art. Heeee…yet another gift from the Artist’s Way piggybacked my big car wreck in which I lost the ability to comprehend all but the most overt humor for 6 months. Thank you so much for reminding me of that. I needed that this week.
Is it bad that I needed to google what Ute meant lol?! I'm not in on the "down under" lingo haha - but I loved this. There's something so special and purely fun about the whimsicalities you've described. They really do add some sweet spice to life!
I for one am not whimsical like that - but maybe I should give it a go given that I spend most of my time being a miserable scrooge haha!
A wonderful piece of writing again Michael. Well done. Remind yourself constantly to be present because in this moment we experience all the awe and wonder and playful child side of ourselves that we need. I remind you as I'm sure I've said before, that I have 'achieved' very little in my life. But my goodness I've had fun and drama and adventures. I hope you get the same for your life. Relax and enjoy ❤️🙏
Thank you, April. I’m going to write “Relax and enjoy” on the top of the board where I pin all my “to-do’s”.
I’ve realised being driven in the way I am is just a part of my temperament and that there are advantages to it — I even kinda like it. It’s just I have to watch myself and learn to not over do it and not get so caught up in all the stuff. My partner, my friend, the ocean, and skateboarding help a lot. And of course, comments from you :)
I completely relate Michael. I have ADHD and it can be quite an intense brain pattern to live with 😂 I have a list of qualifications that I did just because I was putting myself under pressure. I have done so many jobs it's crazy. I had a bucket list a mile long. In the end I understand that none of those completed lists or degrees in Chinese Medical Theory or bucket list items really truly mean anything without joy. Joy can only be found in the moment. It sure did help my busy brain once I found an acceptance of this and stopped beating myself up. You are already something unique, already someone amazing, you don't need to prove anything to any other fucker on this planet. You may or may not be remembered, it matters not!
None of it means anything without joy — such an important and well said point, April. I’m really happy to hear you found for joy in yourself in the moment and I really appreciate the reminder to do the same.
Thanks ME - you had me skipping down memory lane and I'm old enough to remember the days before political correct bureaucracy interfered with everything cool - and many col cars could be viewed in Fremantle all adorned with some type Hood Ornament' - count me as a fan of frivolity and nonsense -
This reminds me of a hit piece I recently read about dog owners…the gist was basically "how we owners are quite lame and ridiculous as we spendhours on end watching dogs chase sticks, balls and their own tails…how simple-minded we must be to be entertained by this etc"….but the thing that captivates us is actually to witness a creature that fully and completely exists in their joy and in the moment. We just want to share in that without ambition, worry, greed or, worst of all, self-consciousness..just like your bud :)
Who would dare write a hit piece on dog owners!
Yes, there is something so enthralling about any creature that is completely engaged in the moment. Ahh to be free of self-consciousness — wouldn’t that be a treat.
Thanks Simon, as always, your comments are much appreciated :)
Hahhaa I want to meet your mate Michael. He sounds like a freaking legend! I really enjoyed reading all about him and how he makes life playful again. Now — where can I get my own copy of the sword-weilding-barbie-riding-T-Rex hood ornament?
Thanks Renee! He definitely is a legend and I’m glad you enjoyed hearing about him.
As for obtaining one of those fancy hood ornaments, unfortunately, I don’t think my friend is in the business of producing doubles.
But with a trip to the toy store and the hardware store and a little bit of creativity I’m sure you could make your own haha :)
Thanks again Renee.
Hahahhahaa! You know it's Art with a captial 'A' when there are no doubles or reproductions :') actually makes me kinda happy hahah. Yes, I think my version of it would be a mermaid riding a whale.... Ah how this idea got my imagination working :) testament to your writing and your mates creativity!
Yes exactly! No doubles with real art!
A mermaid riding a whale sounds amazing haha
Thank you, Renee that is much appreciated :)
Right! Hahaha I'll let you know if it ever comes to life :)
-- Engaging in activities simply for the sake of doing them is a testament to the beauty of being present in the moment. It’s about embracing the intrinsic value of experience over outcome, finding solace in the act itself rather than fixating on the end result. In these moments, we discover the purity of joy and fulfillment, liberated from the constraints of productivity or expectation. It’s a celebration of spontaneity, curiosity, and the innate human desire for exploration. By immersing ourselves in these experiences, we cultivate a deeper connection to ourselves and the world around us, enriching our lives with meaning and authenticity. Xo.
Thank you, Thaissa. As always, I am in awe of the way you craft your words. And yes, I couldn’t agree more, engaging in activities simply for the sake of doing them is such a powerful thing to do :)
Yes! Thank you for putting this into words. I've always been the serious type as well, rigidly carving out my days. Friends that remind me of whimsy and play keep me sane.
Ahhh Will, it’s nice to know I’m not alone in being the serious type who carves out his days — it is most certainly a plight. And, like you, I’m so grateful for the people who help me relax a little :)
And Michael, you may be amused to hear that for me, reading your writing represents that same energy of rascality, whimsy, "infectious magic" and tongue-in-cheek delight😁 "I have seen how his whimsical nature reminds others not to take themselves so seriously." Yep - true of you too😁
Awww. Thank you, Camilla that really means a lot. I’m so glad to hear my writing has that affect on you.
You totally just made my day :)
An excellent reminder - play is never a waste of time! I love that you used the analogy of the majesty of the ocean with how your friend makes you feel. I hope he reads this because those are amazing words.
Thank you, Donna. Your kind words about my writing are much appreciated.
I actually went and visited my friend last night and delivered him a printed copy of the piece so he could read it when he pleases — it was also a good excuse to catch up :)
Now all you need is to play Led Zeppelin's "Immigration Song" while driving and the tableau will be complete. Did that ever happen?
Hahaha great call, Victoria!!
I can’t say I remember that happening, but because it’s such a cool idea, I won’t rule out the possibility that it did.
Thanks for the awesome comment :)
From the opening description of the hood ornament, I was hooked. I love the idea of you staring at that glorious adornment, grinning but also thinking about why that grin is so full. I read this as a toast to your friend as a person who not only injects your life with whimsy but models its integration. I am glad this person (and this good ornament) are in your life.
Thank you, Michael. I really appreciate your kind words. And yes, there were so many times I was left grinning because of my friends presence or that whimsical hood ornament that eventually I started to wonder what made that grin so strong — the result of my pondering was this piece.
Thanks again :)
Great writing, Michael. I really felt I was there in the cab with that golden hood ornament.
Thanks Jeffery. I really appreciate your kind words on my writing, it means a lot, especially coming such a good writer like yourself :)
I love it 😊
Thanks Dad!
"JamQuackster"...! 💚🦆 God I want a duck... Great post, Michael, how great to have such a madcap friend, the power of whimsy is vastly underrated... Barbie and her steed vaguely remind me of a bong we once made, called "The Golden Gun" - me and the friend from high school who inspired Lamb, as it happens. ;)
Having a duck was quite the experience. One thing I learnt — those bastards are loud and demanding when their hungry. They are also super cute.
Hahaha “The Golden Gun” I love it! Sounds like a good bong and a good time — ahh the good old days haha
Thanks for being here brother :)
That made my day! :)
A good friend you got there, Michael.
Awww thank you, Fotini. What a lovely compliment.
I’m so happy to hear you enjoyed the piece.
And yes, you right, he’s the best :)
NO. It is not. Never ever ever. 🥰 Being one of those driven types myself, who has an equally big kid inside, I had to rediscover this lost art. Heeee…yet another gift from the Artist’s Way piggybacked my big car wreck in which I lost the ability to comprehend all but the most overt humor for 6 months. Thank you so much for reminding me of that. I needed that this week.
I think it is my big kid inside and your big kid inside that helps us get along so well.
Thank you, Alexx. I’m glad to hear you enjoyed this piece and that it reminded you of the humour :)
100%!!
Is it bad that I needed to google what Ute meant lol?! I'm not in on the "down under" lingo haha - but I loved this. There's something so special and purely fun about the whimsicalities you've described. They really do add some sweet spice to life!
I for one am not whimsical like that - but maybe I should give it a go given that I spend most of my time being a miserable scrooge haha!
Great writing as always Michael!
Hahaha that’s awesome, Zan!
I didn’t even consider that ‘ute’ is an Aussie word — that’s so interesting.
Yes, the whimsicallities make life just a little bit more fun.
It’s all good I need to try be more whimsical myself, we’re trying :)
Thanks Zan, I really appreciate it.
A wonderful piece of writing again Michael. Well done. Remind yourself constantly to be present because in this moment we experience all the awe and wonder and playful child side of ourselves that we need. I remind you as I'm sure I've said before, that I have 'achieved' very little in my life. But my goodness I've had fun and drama and adventures. I hope you get the same for your life. Relax and enjoy ❤️🙏
Thank you, April. I’m going to write “Relax and enjoy” on the top of the board where I pin all my “to-do’s”.
I’ve realised being driven in the way I am is just a part of my temperament and that there are advantages to it — I even kinda like it. It’s just I have to watch myself and learn to not over do it and not get so caught up in all the stuff. My partner, my friend, the ocean, and skateboarding help a lot. And of course, comments from you :)
Thank April :)
I completely relate Michael. I have ADHD and it can be quite an intense brain pattern to live with 😂 I have a list of qualifications that I did just because I was putting myself under pressure. I have done so many jobs it's crazy. I had a bucket list a mile long. In the end I understand that none of those completed lists or degrees in Chinese Medical Theory or bucket list items really truly mean anything without joy. Joy can only be found in the moment. It sure did help my busy brain once I found an acceptance of this and stopped beating myself up. You are already something unique, already someone amazing, you don't need to prove anything to any other fucker on this planet. You may or may not be remembered, it matters not!
Relax and enjoy ✌️❤️
None of it means anything without joy — such an important and well said point, April. I’m really happy to hear you found for joy in yourself in the moment and I really appreciate the reminder to do the same.
Thank you :)
Huzzah!!! Thank you for the reminder. Closing my computer now to go play with my cats and contemplate a duck named JamQuackster. 😂
Hahaha thank you, Kimberly! 😊
Thanks ME - you had me skipping down memory lane and I'm old enough to remember the days before political correct bureaucracy interfered with everything cool - and many col cars could be viewed in Fremantle all adorned with some type Hood Ornament' - count me as a fan of frivolity and nonsense -