Having been raised in a rural community, I have felt since childhood that the natural world is the manifestation of an underlying, spiritual reality. The patterns, the color, the behavior we see in living creatures points to a deeper activity on a grand scale. I’m reminded of Walt Whitman’s piece, “A Child Said, What Is Grass.” The poet muses over possible answers to the question, including this one:
“Or I guess it is the handkerchief of the Lord,
A scented gift and remembrancer designedly dropped,
Bearing the owner’s name someway in the corners, that we
may see and remark, and say Whose?”
For me, the child’s question of “Whose?” has a clear answer. As I contemplate the creatures or the scenery of the natural world, I do not see a random act, but an intentional expression of a higher intelligence with its owner’s signature stamped in every corner.
For years I have had an interest in photographing birds. Unfortunately, the cost of good camera gear and film development made it a difficult hobby to pursue. Birds do not intentionally pose for portraits and most shots are not worth keeping, so it gets expensive very quickly. With today’s digital technology, if you don’t like a photo, you simply delete it.
As one who has devoted his life to the study and teaching of spiritual principles, I’m always looking for ways to share with others ideas that are meaningful to me. I’ve done this through speaking, writing and music. Now I’m adding a fourth avenue of expression: photography. It occurred to me that the greeting card would be an excellent way to share this interest. An inspiring thought combined with a beautiful image is a simple but powerful and non-intrusive way of boosting the spirit of a friend or loved one.
Through the magic of digital photography and computer graphics, I have developed a unique series of greeting cards that allow me to share thoughts and imagery I believe will inspire others in meaningful ways. Like music, images from nature have a universal appeal that moves us at deep levels. The messages I’ve included carry a positive thought that should appeal to anyone. These affirmative statements are designed to let your friend or loved one know you are thinking of them in a meaningful way.
Today’s online technology has allowed me to set up a store, Flying Inspiration, to make these cards available for viewing and for purchase. I’d love to have you visit and see how this site so beautifully displays each card. Click on any set and scroll through it. Currently there are ten sets with five, 5 x 7 cards (envelopes included) in each collection. I would love to get your feedback on this latest project. Those who have seen this work have been very enthusiastic in their support for it.
Every aspect of nature “bears the owner’s name someway in the corners.” When we ask, “Whose?” our eyes may be opened in that instant, and I’m finding that’s a great time to have a camera.
J Douglas Bottorff 