SOMETHING UNUSUAL caught my eye as I headed to Kwomais Point Park at dusk to watch the sunset last Saturday.To my surprise an umbrella was there as well as a row of candles and a cake.
The normally quiet setting was filled with laughter and chatter. A young woman was celebrating her birthday with friends. They didn't mind me taking pictures of their outdoor decorations.
The conversation made me wonder if friends were showing the birthday girl all the love they could in light of a recent disappointment in her life.
The flickering flames and sun-yellow flowers set against a pink-hued backdrop reflected both joy and sadness.
Stumbling on this scene of contradictions strangely coincided with thoughts about the recent unexpected passing of Jack Layton. Jack was the New Democratic Party (NDP) leader who not only captured the coveted role of official opposition but many hearts as well.
As the horizon switched moods from soft pinks and moved to the more vivid NDP shades of orange, I was reminded of Jack's televised funeral earlier that day and how it evoked a range of emotions.
Eulogies touching on Jack's beliefs came to mind ... that despite the highs and lows, confusing inbetweens and disappointments, life challenges us to move forward with optimism. "You can wait forever for perfect conditions or you can make the best of what you have now," Jack once told his son.Maybe this is as simple as creating a magical experience for someone about to blow out another year of candles ... or lighting candles to celebrate a life that has passed.
Copyright by Penelope Puddlisms
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What a beautiful post, and what a beautiful place for a celebration.
ReplyDelete(I have been very sad about Jack Layton's death ever since we heard about it a week ago.)
Luv — K
Kay, Alberta, Canada
An Unfittie's Guide to Adventurous Travel
This was a beautiful post. The photography and words were equally wonderful.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful post ...lovely images in photos and words. Well done!
ReplyDeleteA lovely philosophical post and so true, we can easily waste a lifetime waiting for the perfect conditions, or just get on with it.
ReplyDeleteYou certainly captured the bitter-sweet feeling of the birthday celebration exceedingly well.
Very well written post.
ReplyDeleteI like the simple decorations there.
I can only repeat what others have written -- such a beautiful and very moving post. I am sorry to learn of Jack Layton's death! I do so hate to lose the good ones! Thank you for sharing your world with us at Our World. Hope you have a good week, Penelope.
ReplyDeleteSylvia
A lovely post with gorgeous shots!
ReplyDeleteI love the soft colors of the sunset. The tranquility of this scene is a very befitting tribute.
ReplyDeleteNice post!
Beautiful photos and reflections. I like the advice Jack gave to his son. I try to follow it for myself (before I hear of his advice). I learned a lot about the man watching the television services.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful sunset colours and tranquil sea.
ReplyDeleteThis was a beautifully gentle and thoughtful post, Penelope. I loved its celebration of the joys as well as the disappointments that make up a full and balanced life. The photographs were just perfect!
ReplyDeleteI hope that celebration was all the guest of honor hoped for and needed. This is a a beautiful post. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteThis is a very beautiful and poignant post, and your photos were stunning.
ReplyDeleteI love outdoor celebrations. I don't find candles remotely sad, they seem brave against the night... although I can also see what you mean! Thanks for your beautiful pictures, as always.
ReplyDeleteA touching post, lovely thoughts and images.
ReplyDeleteMy peanut story is one of the few funniest story in the family. My sis paid $150 to a specialist to get a small object from her daughter's nose. My story is told to all the young nieces and nephews, never ever put any thing small into your nose.
ReplyDeleteHowever, it didn't quite sink in, that same nurse did it twice.
Great post! Yes indeed, Jack's passing was very sad. Jack didn't waste much time in his life. He accomplished much in his 61 years. Hw will be missed.
ReplyDeleteThat's a great statement to live by to make the best of it. That's mine as well. Your pictures a just gorgeous
ReplyDeleteThe photography here is nothing short of spectacular! I was so inspired by Jack Layton's celebration of life. The story about the bicycle trip he and his son took was a perfect example of Jack's outlook on life, and now on mine.
ReplyDeleteThis was so well-done, bittersweet and beautiful. Thank you...xx
There is a very special feeling about this gorgeous place. I am so glad that they have preserved it's beauty for everyone to see.
ReplyDeleteJen @ Muddy Boot Dreams
I'm so envious of you that Canadians had such a wonderful politician who captured the heart of the people - his light must be sorely missed. I'll keep his words in mind.
ReplyDeleteThe changing colors on the sunset sky and the water is enchanting and soothing. The color gradation of the sky and of the crinkly-looking water in your photo reminds me of Japanese kimono of silk dyed with sunset colors.
Have a happy and restful weekend, Penelope.
Yoko
A lovely post and and a most worthwhile first visit for me. Beautiful photography -- and your heart is in the right place!
ReplyDelete