” Our job is not to see through one another,

but to see one another through.”

Gladys Thetford, Wellington, New Zealand

At the Te Papa Museum in Wellington, New Zealand, I encountered an exhibit that brought me to tears. A small collection of simple, silver framed, black and white photographs entitled: Hidden Lives. It is curated by photographer Anne Nobles.

The subjects in these photos are of an octogenarian mother, and her adult daughter with intellectual disability as they go about their life together. Of these tender photographs Nobel writes, ” The work of care is often taken on like a mantle by women-sisters, widows, mother’s. Society has always expected it, and rarely acknowledges it.”

Perhaps I was moved because I miss my own mom who never became an octogenarian. Perhaps I was thinking of my younger brother, who is an adult with intellectual disabilities, but also has a tender heart that yearns for his mom, too. Perhaps, the tears came for all of the women, and men, in my life who care for their children, family members, and other peoples’ children, too… and yet, feel unseen. Maybe it’s the dull ache I feel for the children, and newly minted young adults, who will continue to grow and thrive without their Mom’s enthusiastic guidance. Most likely, the tears flowed because I connected humanity with personal emotion, and experience. It moved me into a sacred space of respect, reverence and profound empathy.

To see one another through is the invisible thread that connect us. It is a gentle reminder, that when we feely lonely, or disconnected, there is available to each of us an abundant universal network of love surrounding us to acknowledge and embrace.

THREE VISTAS

Even Pigeons take time for reflection of Sydney’s iconic Opera House.

TWO THOUGHTFUL THREADS

• Among the joys of traveling are the unexpected surprises. Sometimes it is a random connection with a kind soul that sees the struggle of a “selfie”, and offers to take the picture. A conversation ensues, and a whole new vista of the world opens up. Sometimes a topic is presented, on this journey for example, gemstones. Another vista of learning unfolds that rivals anything I had previously known from my Rockhound Granpa! The common thread of these “surprises” is allowing ones’ mind and heart to be open to enlightenment. To see the other person, to embrace the moment as opportunity toward becoming the best version of me.
• In scouting out Little Blue Penguins in New Zealand, also known as Fairy Penguins in Australia, I’ve encountered another personal learning. Disappointment lasts only as long as I hold on to it. While I haven’t yet seen these tiny penguins live, I did purchase a plushie which has become a totem for me. Little Blue represents curiosity, determination, and the ability to thrive in challenging environments. And a reminder, “Penguins teach us that you don’t have to be fast to move forward. Slow steeps still count”.

ONE HISTORICAL NUGGET

From idea to an icon: In 1957 the Sydney Opera House was a concept in the mind of Danish architect Jørn Utzon. He won an international competition with his idea, and construction began in 1959. While it took 14 years to build, 14 times the estimated budget of $7 million, and the resignation of Utzon from the project in 1966, the Opera House was officially opened October 20, 1973 by Queen Elizabeth II. Behind the scenes, it was the Sydney Opera House Ladies’ Committee (SOHLC) that faithfully raised funds for this construction to be completed. Because of their passion for the performing arts, and a strong belief that the arts enrich society, the SOHLC continues to raise funds which supports various educational programs today.