Berry Springs

My last two nights in the RV are at Berry Springs. I'm so enchanted with the beautiful waters to swim and soak. A brief fantasy arose of living here until I remembered the conditions in the other 3 seasons.

I feel so lucky to experience this. And, I am told that it was a very wet season, which is why everything is so lush. It's not usually this green.

And I can't help my gratitude to my zenith zones that made me curious and interested in this part of the world. While I didn't have a direct experience there, the ripples are being felt now.

It's interesting to notice my emotional swings. My drive out of Kakadu was really tender. I was just emotional and let the tears go. I turned on my chanting music folder, which has mantras, recited sutras, and kirtan. It calmed me until a bird flew straight into my van, and I had another overwhelming moment of sadness. The mantras were played again for relief. I couldn't say why I felt sad. Today was a more gentler wave of sadness that I met with prayer.

I look at these moments with curiosity and an appreciation for the spiritual tools I have. A decade ago, I could have easily spiraled into a depressive episode. The darkness has lost its power over me. I don't run or push it away anymore. Nor do I judge. I am aware. I am free. And sometimes, I am sad.

Happy solstice...

Pictures are of ibis, a peculiar bird I've enjoyed seeing.Read more