Today is my first day back in New York City after four wonderful weeks in the shadow of Mt. Monadnock. Around the mid-point of my time at MacDowell, I started telling anyone who'd listen that I was hoping to find a way to carry some of the balance and inner calm with me as I venture back into this urban setting. I continue to think about that. I'm curious and eager to discover new ways of finding that core, that calm center.
(like the caramel center of a Rolo?)
One thing I did this morning which did help a lot: I walked to work. It added 35-40 min. to my day, meaning I had to get up a little earlier but it was well worth it. The rain had stopped and although it was chilly, it was quite a bit warmer than a New Hampshire morning stroll.
As I walked I thought a lot about my daily walks at MacDowell. Not about any one intersection or clearing or what have you, but about the ritual of walking and about its meditative qualtiies. I am told that walking can be a form of mediation or that one can walk and meditate at the same time. Assuming that's easier than walking and chewing gum at the same time, I'd say 'sign me up!'
In a few days I will post some lessons about creativity and my self and just being that I jotted down from my time in the woods. My hope is that they may be of some use to some of you creative souls.
To those Extra Criticum readers and writers living in the New York area, I very much look forward to hugging you each real soon. In the meantime, Happy New Year!
This photograph was taken this morning by MacDowell colonist Honor Moore.
