Ways of Seeing: ‘Us vs. them’ needs to be left behind

People love opposition. Whether it’s a school rivalry or a business competition, it doesn’t take much difference to turn things into “us v. them.” In fact, it doesn’t take any.

Ways of Seeing: Animals have their own languages

It’s dangerous to speak too freely around this house. Drop an unguarded “walk” or “go out” and our collie, sleeping peacefully by the fire, transforms into a leaping, barking maniac. Say “treat” in the wrong tone of voice and he’ll caper in front of you l … (read more)

Ways of Seeing: Nature often puts colors on display

Insects have a bad reputation, but so much of summer is bound up in them: crickets chorusing in the hayfields, cicadas droning in the heat, jeweled dragonflies gleaming against the reeds, butterflies fluttering between flowerbeds.

Ways of Seeing: Thankful for wheel of dark and light

Well, it happened again. Sunday night it started raining and just kept on.

Ways of Seeing: Appreciation of art, nature & others

The first time I saw a Van Gogh in person I was 15.