Anthony's Literary Lens

Tag: peace

  • A watery journey to inner peace

    A watery journey to inner peace

    TikTok

    Settle into a comfortable space, let your mind relax. Close your eyes and imagine a tranquil pool, its surface undisturbed. As drops of water delicately descend, visualise each ripple creating soothing patterns, nature’s intricate dance.

    Breathe in deeply, allowing the soothing sounds to guide your breath. Feel the gentle caress of a calm breeze as you immerse yourself in this peaceful scene. With each drop, a harmonious echo resonates as you invite tranquillity into your being.

    Picture the concentric circles expanding gracefully, forming ephemeral artwork on the water’s surface. As you observe, release any tension as you exhale, letting go of worries like ripples dispersing into the calm pool.

    Allow the rhythmic melody of water droplets to guide you into a state of serenity. Embrace the simplicity of this moment, finding solace in the gentle descent of each droplet, creating a pool of calmness within your body and mind.

    In this sacred space, detach from the outside world, sinking into the calm water and the quiet patterns of the drops. As you continue to breathe in harmony with the natural rhythm, feel nature’s gentle embrace enveloping you.

    Tranquil pool whispers,
    Nature’s dance in liquid grace,
    Ripples breathe solace.

    Anthony
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  • Be Still

    Be Still

    “Moonlit tides obey,
    Leader holds a steady hand,
    Stillness guides the way”

    Anthony
    Peace

    The river whispers to the willow, “Be still,” as its current bends, caressing the slender limbs. The mountain murmurs to the pine, “Be still,” as the wind carves its ageless form against the sky.

    Be still, child of the earth, and let the ripples of desire recede within the pool of your mind. Breathe as the lotus, slow and deep, rooting you in the mud of the everyday. Chase not the shiny, flitting dragonfly of distraction, but gather the dewdrops of wisdom from the silent dawn.

    Be still, scholar of virtue, and let the clamour of opinions fade into the distant hills. Hone your character as the craftsman polishes sacred jade, stroke by patient stroke, until the inner light shines true. Let the ink of understanding flow not from borrowed vessels, but from the wellspring of your own quiet contemplation.

    Be still, leader of men, and let the reins of ambition slacken in your grasp. As the moon guides the tides with its gentle pull, so govern with a heart attuned to the rhythm of your people. Seek not to control the waters, but to navigate them with wisdom, a quiet rudder in the storm.

    Be still, wanderer of the earth, and let the whispers of the world wash over you like leaves on a stream. Seek not meaning in every gust of wind, but in the rooted stillness of the ancient tree. The path unfolds beneath your feet, not in the shouts of distant travellers, but in the echo of your own mindful steps.

    For in the stillness, the wise man hears his inner whisper, a sense beyond words, a guiding light in the heart. Be still, and let the silence of the universe resonate within your soul.

    Shanshui style painting
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  • Pink lily, white koi, a perfect match

    Pink lily, white koi, a perfect match

    Water lily blooms
    Above – a koi swims below
    Two worlds, one beauty

    Anthony
    A photo I took a few years ago.
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    A water lily and a koi carp fish are two symbols that have a lot of meaning and significance in Asian cultures, especially in Japan. They are sometimes depicted together in art and tattoos, as they represent a combination of purity, enlightenment, and rebirth.

    A water lily is a beautiful aquatic plant that grows in muddy water but emerges clean and radiant. It has large, round leaves that float on the surface of the water and colourful flowers that bloom above the water. It symbolises purity, beauty, and spiritual awakening. A water lily is also associated with Buddhism, as it represents the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. A water lily can close its petals at night and open them again in the morning, symbolizing the ability to rise above the darkness and ignorance.

    A koi carp fish is an ornamental carp that can swim upstream against strong currents. It symbolises courage, determination, and transformation. According to a legend, a koi fish that can reach the top of a waterfall will turn into a dragon. A koi fish is also a symbol of luck, success, and prosperity. A white koi fish with a red spot on its head is called a kohaku, and it is one of the most popular and valuable varieties. It represents happiness, love, and passion.

    Koi fish swims upstream
    Water lily opens wide
    Both seek the light

    Anthony

    The relationship between a water lily and a koi carp fish is that they both symbolize the attainment of enlightenment and the overcoming of obstacles. They also complement each other in terms of color and meaning. A white koi fish with a red spot on its head and a red water lily create a harmonious and balanced image of peace and passion. Together, they create a beautiful and inspiring scene of nature and spirituality.

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  • Insights into the Water Rabbit Year

    Insights into the Water Rabbit Year

    “In the Year of the Rabbit, gentleness conquers where force fails, and fortune favours the heart at peace.”

    Anthony
    Managed to get this photo when I was working in somebody’s garden.
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    The Year of the Rabbit in the Chinese zodiac is characterised by the gentle and graceful nature of the rabbit, combined with the influence of the element water in 2023. People born in this year are believed to possess qualities such as kindness, tact, and artistic sensibilities.

    The Rabbit is often seen as a symbol of good fortune and is associated with longevity in Chinese culture. Those born in the Year of the Rabbit are thought to lead a life of tranquility and charm. They are believed to be diplomatic individuals, capable of navigating social situations with ease due to their innate tact and grace.

    The element of Water further enhances these characteristics, adding a touch of adaptability and intuition to individuals born in 2023. Water is associated with fluidity and emotional depth, and it is believed to bring a sense of balance and harmony to the Rabbit’s inherent elegance.

    In Chinese folklore, the Rabbit is also associated with the Moon, contributing to its connection with creativity and artistic pursuits. People born in the Year of the Water Rabbit may find themselves drawn to creative endeavors, whether in the arts, literature, or other expressive outlets.

    Overall, the Year of the Water Rabbit is seen as a time when individuals may find success through a harmonious blend of sensitivity, diplomacy, and creative expression. It’s a year that encourages adaptability and the pursuit of artistic passions, all under the auspicious influence of the gentle and fortunate Rabbit.

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  • Of Moss and Memories: The Forest Bridge

    Of Moss and Memories: The Forest Bridge

    As I crossed the weathered planks, I discovered the bridge’s secret: it led to inner peace

    Somewhere in Snowdon, Wales
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    Beneath a canopy of ancient oaks and maples, a rustic bridge emerges, its weathered planks worn smooth by countless footsteps. It spans a meandering river, whose waters whisper secrets to the wind-kissed leaves. As you step onto the bridge, the scent of damp earth and moss rises to meet you, a fragrance carried on a gentle breeze. The bridge’s timeworn rails offer a comforting grip, guiding you through the heart of this enchanted forest. In the dappled sunlight, you find solace, where the bridge becomes a silent witness to the stories of the woods, standing strong through seasons and time.

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  • Peaceful Pool

    Peaceful Pool

    In the realm of tranquillity, where the sun descends to embrace the horizon in a warm, golden light, there lies a still pool of water that is the very essence of placid composure. Its mirrored surface, kissed by the fading light, is a silent reflection of mindfulness.

    In this pool, a reminder so clear,
    Impermanence whispers, in every tear.
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    Picture the water, a mirror to our own souls, undisturbed and crystal-clear. As the sun’s rays gently weave their enchantment upon it, an array of colours dances in response. Nature has painted a masterpiece, reminding us that the present moment is an exquisite work of art.

    The sun’s descent is a gentle reminder to release the burdens of the day, much like the ripples that form and then vanish on the water’s surface. Each moment, a whisper from nature, tells us to be fully present, to open our hearts to the now.

    Amidst the hushed tranquillity of this scene, we find a profound sense of inner peace. Imagine your mind as still as this pool, your thoughts mere ripples that arise and disappear like fleeting dreams. Be fully immersed in this very moment, just as the pool reflects the world’s all-encompassing beauty.

    In the profound quietude of this tranquil moment, we are reminded that even the most radiant days must eventually fade, making way for new beginnings. Carry with you the wisdom of awareness as you journey through the ever-changing currents of life, always returning to the calm, reflective pool of your own being. Find solace and presence in every golden sunset, a reminder of the limitless beauty that surrounds us.

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  • Life in the High Wilds

    Life in the High Wilds

    Up here, on this harsh and unforgiving mountaintop, I stand as a solitary sentinel of the wilderness, my hooves planted firmly in the snow. The biting winds cut through my long hair and mane, cascading like a silken curtain to cover my face, but I find solace in the midst of this frigid beauty

    I took this near Llanthony Priory with Grwyne Fawr Reservoir in the background. Tap to view my redbubble gallery.

    Up here, on this harsh and unforgiving mountaintop, I stand as a solitary sentinel of the wilderness, my hooves planted firmly in the snow. The biting winds cut through my long hair and mane, cascading like a silken curtain to cover my face, but I find solace in the midst of this frigid beauty.

    You see, the world may deem our existence in these unforgiving altitudes as harsh, but I find contentment in the solitude and simplicity of this life. The rugged terrain, crowned with snow caps, has become my kingdom. It is a place where silence reigns supreme, broken only by the occasional gust of wind or the distant cry of a raptor.

    In this pristine isolation, I find freedom. I am not burdened by the expectations of the world below, nor do I long for the comforts of a stable or the company of my equine brethren. My days are filled with the art of survival, as I navigate treacherous slopes and forage for the meagre vegetation that clings to life in these unforgiving conditions.

    The icy touch of winter may be unforgiving, but it has sculpted me into a creature of resilience. I bear the weight of my long hair and mane with pride, for they are a testament to my strength and endurance. They shield me from the biting cold and grant me a shroud of anonymity in this vast, unforgiving expanse.

    I gaze upon the snow-capped peaks of the Welsh mountains that surround me, their majesty humbling and awe-inspiring. In this rugged beauty, I find my peace. I am a horse of the mountains, and I would not trade this life for anything. Here, on this harsh wild mountaintop, I am content, for I have found my place in the heart of nature’s grandeur.

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  • Peace?

    Peace?

    Peace is a gentle breeze,
    Whispering through the trees.
    It’s a warm embrace,
    A loving, healing space.

    Blue piece
    Dryslwyn river. Tap to view my redbubble gallery.

    What’s the point of peace and serenity,
    Of beauty and reflection?
    When all that we have is a moment’s reprieve,
    From the chaos and destruction.

    The river flows on,
    Uncaring of our plight.
    The trees sway in the breeze,
    Unmoved by our cries.

    The fog rolls in,
    Obscuring our sight.
    And the reflection in the water,
    Is a distorted image of our reality.

    So why do we strive for peace and serenity?
    When all that we have is a moment’s reprieve,
    From the chaos and destruction.

    Let us embrace the chaos,
    Let us face the darkness.
    For in the darkness,
    We find our resilience.

    And in the chaos,
    We find our strength.

    For peace and serenity,
    Beauty and reflection,
    Are fleeting illusions.

    But the chaos and destruction,
    Are our reality.

    Let us embrace it,
    And find our way through it.

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  • Carew Castle, Pembrokeshire

    Carew Castle, Pembrokeshire

    A Swan’s Tour.

    A Graceful Journey Through Time.
    Greetings, dear visitors. We are your guides for today, a loving swan couple who have called the mill pond in front of Carew Castle our home for generations. As you join us on this serene tour, we’ll take you through the history of the castle, the surrounding Pembrokeshire area, and our own story, seamlessly woven into this enchanting tapestry of time.

    Stormy History. Tap to buy prints and more.

    Swan Tales by the Castle.
    As you take this journey through history, remember that we, the swans, have our own story here. Our family’s devotion to this place has mirrored the enduring spirit of the castle. We’ve seen generations come and go, always returning to our mill pond, just as visitors return to Carew Castle.

    Peaceful Times. Tap to buy prints and more.

    Carew Castle – A Timeless Fortress.
    As you gaze upon the stately Carew Castle, let us share its history with you. This mighty fortress has seen centuries come and go. It was first raised by the Normans in the 11th century, serving as a powerful symbol of conquest in Pembrokeshire. Throughout the mediaeval period, it played a vital role in regional politics, a time when knights in shining armour and grand feasts graced its halls.

    The Castle’s Turbulent Tale.
    The castle witnessed its fair share of turmoil during the English Civil War in the 17th century. Parliamentarian troops took control, and much of its grandeur was lost. However, like us, the swans, Carew Castle rose from the ashes. In the 1660s, Sir Nicholas de Carew initiated its restoration, creating a unique blend of mediaeval and Jacobean architecture.

    A Picturesque Pond and Gardens.
    The stunning mill pond surrounding the castle is a sight to behold. The serene waters mirror the grandeur of the castle, inviting you to reflect on the past. Its gentle flow connects us, the swans, to the history of the castle, as we’ve swum in its embrace for centuries. The castle’s gardens, adorned with vibrant flora, add to the picturesque charm.

    The Enchanting Pembrokeshire Region.
    Look beyond the castle’s walls, and you’ll discover the beauty of Pembrokeshire. This region is known for its rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and ancient landscapes. Explore the coastal paths and secret coves that bear witness to countless stories of fishermen and adventurers, just as we have our own stories to tell.

    A Timeless Journey of Discovery.
    As we wrap up our guided tour, we hope you’ve enjoyed this unique perspective on Carew Castle and Pembrokeshire, seen through the eyes of the swans. Just as history weaves its narrative into the stones of the castle and the landscapes of Pembrokeshire, our presence, too, reflects the enduring bond between nature and history in this captivating corner of Wales. Come visit, explore, and perhaps catch a glimpse of us, the swan couple, as we continue our timeless journey alongside the rich history of Carew Castle and the enchanting beauty of Pembrokeshire.

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  • Lunar dreams

    Lunar dreams

    The Ancients attest that there exists a profound truth that has transcended time, passed down through generations as an unwavering belief. It is a reality woven into the fabric of their culture and embraced by those who understand the intricacies of the dream realm.

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    Legend tells of a mystical phenomenon that occurs when sleep evades the restless soul. It is said that during those nights of insomnia, one’s consciousness transcends the confines of their own being and traverses into the realm of another’s dreams. This extraordinary occurrence is an undeniable connection between the sleepless and the dreamers.

    As the moon ascends to its zenith, a celestial signal is activated, beckoning the Dream Weaver to awaken from its slumber. The Dream Weaver, an ethereal entity of divine essence, possesses the power to guide and shape the dreams of humanity. Their luminous hair, cascading like stardust, and their eyes, reflecting the hidden depths of countless dreams, bear witness to their profound wisdom.

    When an individual finds themselves unable to surrender to the embrace of sleep, their restless spirit becomes an inadvertent traveler. Drifting on the currents of the dream realm, they are transported to the dreams of others, becoming ethereal guests in a realm not their own. Within this mystical domain, the sleepless one embarks on a journey of surreal experiences and profound encounters.

    As they traverse through the landscapes of imagination, they witness the dreams of others unfolding before their eyes. Vibrant vistas come to life, painted with the hues of unbridled creativity. They become an integral part of the dreamer’s narrative, seamlessly merging with the tapestry of emotions, desires, and fears that permeate the dreamer’s subconscious.

    While the sleepless wanderer may be a mere visitor in this ethereal realm, their presence is not without influence. Like a whispering breeze that dances through the dreamer’s mind, they possess the power to subtly alter the course of the dream. With each breath, their essence imbues the dream with a touch of their own essence, guiding it down uncharted paths. Their impact, though gentle, can bring solace, enlightenment, or even turmoil to the dreamer’s slumber.

    Yet, the legend of this extraordinary connection between sleepless souls and dreamers carries a solemn warning. It speaks of the delicate balance that must be maintained, for the boundaries between dreams and reality are not easily discerned. Should the sleepless wanderer lose themselves within the enchantment of another’s dreams, their own consciousness becomes entwined with that of the dreamer, forever intertwined within the infinite tapestry of dreams.

    To safeguard against such entrapment, the ancient teachings of wise elders are sought by those who find themselves lost in the dream realm. These sages, revered for their profound understanding of the dream world and the enigmatic ways of the Dream Weaver, impart age-old rituals and practices. Through their guidance, the sleepless ones learn to recognize the ephemeral nature of dreams and navigate the dreamscape with utmost caution, preserving their connection to their own reality.

    And so, the truth of this extraordinary legend persists to this day. As the moon casts its luminous glow upon the Japanese horizon, those who find themselves sleepless may wonder if they, too, become voyagers in another’s dreams. They embrace the profound understanding that in moments of restlessness, a bond forms between souls, bridging the gap between dreamer and sleepless wanderer. In Japan, this truth endures as an indelible part of their cultural tapestry, a testament to the boundless mysteries that reside within the realm of dreams.

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