Okay this original painting by Magritte is probably intended to convey the masks that we all wear in our personal relationships; but, I can't look at it without thinking of the Pandemic. On what planet did we think microscopic germs couldn't get through a piece of cloth over the airways? Yes, I know. I have now disqualified myself for a career in art history or as a museum docent. But, I bet you were thinking the same thing, grasshopper.
Once a parrot bonds to you, it is unbreakable. I had it with Savannah, until she died. I have it now with Rio. I can't describe what such a bond feels like; but I hope you find it with a member of the animal kingdom. I love this image, because it doesn't require the image highlight the bright colors that make parrots so beautiful. Have a great day.
Francis Of Assisi. Many Catholics have statues of St. Francis in their yards or gardens. I suspect that few know the complete history of this Italian playboy, who became the founder of the Franciscan Order. The statue of St. Francis with birds and animals around him honors him as the patron Saint of animals, and it is common that today, on his Feast Day, Catholics have services blessing the animals. The idea that poverty is the ideal form of life for those following in the footsteps of Christ originated with St. Francis, who adopted the lifestyle in the early 1200s. While his family name was Italian (Bernadone), his father married a French noblewoman, and began calling him Francesco, which stuck. His disdain for material things has become a symbol of holiness among believers, up to today. As the Franciscans grew in number, a female order was created, known as the Poor Clares. Whether you are a believer or not, the history of St. Francis is fascinating, and the power of belief over the centuries is evidenced by the impact of the Franciscans. St. Francis' crossing of the Muslim lines, and preaching peace and love, is the reason the Franciscans became the Catholic custodians of certain sacred places in the Holy Land. The Franciscan Monastery in Washington, D.C. is a must visit for those interested in the history of the Franciscans, and it has a replica of the Gardens of the Holy Land, and of the catacombs. The website provides a virtual tour for those who can't visit.
I can't believe I almost missed Rocky and Bullwinkle day. In my youth, it was my favorite cartoon show, and I am certain that my warped sense of humor was shaped by the "before its time" combination of adult and child humor. Good clean fun has gone out of fashion; but the squirrel and moose also led to my interest in Monty Python in high school and college. If you aren't having fun, you aren't doing life right.
I have a modest proposal for Disney. It is really offensive to me that so much of Disney history is filled with politically incorrect stories and images. As an example, when Snow White is awakened from her coma by a kiss from the Prince, it is a perfect example of non consensual action on his part. Shocking. So, here is an alternative way to end the story. You're welcome. While I am at it, I applaud Disney's recent remake of the Country Bear Jamboree, by removing the offensive Liver Lips McGrowl. What an offensive character he was.
Pasqual Artise Squalart. Artist Pasqual Artise will be coming to Florida, and, while here, will be painting his wonderful art on the FutureLawyer office exterior, and I am going to try to get him to repaint my metal sculpture parrot. I am giving him free rein, as his talent is obvious. You can check out his website and see some of the beautiful work he does. I will be posting about the results of his work, so keep an eye out. Thanks Pasqual. I am very excited about showing your work.
Star Wars Review. I was scrolling through Facebook and this 1977 review of Star Wars by Siskel and Ebert popped up. As soon as I heard Siskel's prescient, almost throwaway comment at the end, I realized that his fear had come to pass. Hollywood certainly has tended to reduce serious filmmaking over the past several decades, hasn't it? We all like explosions, special effects, and spectacle; but, let's not forget the quiet, serious movies.
Florida Bar Senior Lawyers Committee. I have been asked to supply poetry to the Quarterly Newsletter for the Senior Lawyers Committee of the Florida Bar for a year or so. I was honored when told I would be named the Poet Laureate for the Committee. I know, it isn't a big deal; but at least a few persons other than my wife and Facebook friends are reading my stuff. This quarter's offering is "Morning in America", and I am following a theme of loss and hope in it. Be always looking for joy. It will come.
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