Bears Repeating: April 2008

Thread of Life

Thread of Life

Perception is really a pattern of sensory inputs that repeat over time.

Unique events would be imperceptible to us. We couldn't observe, associate, recall or communicate them. Events must repeat strongly and frequently enough to bear preserving a pattern that is built up into a palpable, enduring sensation.

If a truly singular event occurred, it wouldn’t be meaningful — to us. The mind seeks patterns.

When we perceive something as unique it's actually a variation, or novelty that persists and forms a cohesive pattern — a pattern within a pattern.

The overarching structure is another pattern.

Within structure, content becomes uniquely and endlessly reorganized into dynamic patterns that form meanings.

Meanings are the threads that weave together the fabric of our experience.

And so, I repeat.

Monday, April 28, 2008

Black Taro

When shafts of sunlight filter through the deep forest, Black Taro lights up like a stained glass window.

Damask Ginger

Ginger plants grace forests and gardens with fragrance and a statuesque presence.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Royal Pineapple

The pineapple, with it's byzantine structure, symbolizes a royal gift of welcome and island hospitality.

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

Banana Damask

Banana plants create a formal island motif.

Monday, April 21, 2008

Ko‘olau Gardens

The giant Ap‘e or elephant ear creates a rich backdrop for the delicate blossoms of the Spider Lily. The prodigious scale of these tropicals bring drama to the lush rain forests of the Ko'olau mountains.

Sunday, April 20, 2008

Bamboo Parasol

As a newcomer to the islands, I am always struck with the elegance of Asian influence. In the forest the bamboo keeps percussive rhythm with the trade winds. And the gentle rains bring out a parade of decorative curvaceous waves.