Peace by Understanding

NjA Art &  Photography

Cultivating Gratitude and Presence in Life

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There’s something radically liberating in realizing that life isn’t something you’re owed but a gift you get to unwrap each morning. When you shift your stance from entitlement to gratitude, a few powerful things happen:

• You stop chasing more and start savoring what you have. For instance: ✅ Instead of “I deserve a bigger house,” you notice how the sunlight plays on your coffee cup or tea. ✅ Instead of “Why isn’t my life perfect?” you catch yourself smiling when a friend surprises you with a kind text.

• You choose presence over distraction.
  ✅ Entitlement breeds restlessness—you’re always eyeing the next pleasure or status symbol.
  ✅ Gratitude anchors you in the now: you’ll find depth in the simplest moments, like listening to rain on the roof or feeling your heartbeat.

• You transform obstacles into gifts.
  ✅ Hardship feels unfair when you believe you’re owed an easy path.
  ✅ But when life’s a gift—complete with sharp edges—you learn to polish rough moments into wisdom and resilience.

• How to cultivate that sense of “gift mindset”?
  ✅ Morning gratitude pause: Before you scroll your phone, name three small wonders—For instance: warmth from a lamp, the taste of breakfast, a memory that makes you smile, a walk with your favorite creatures, etc.
  ✅ Evening reflection: Jot down one challenge you faced and the unexpected lesson it brought.
  ✅ Service ritual: Volunteer or help someone without keeping score. You’ll feel firsthand how generosity reminds you of your own abundance.

• As you make these practices your own, you’ll notice a curious freedom: the less you demand, the richer life feels.

🥰☀️🧡

Lake and Mountain View

"Success is like climbing a mountain, 

you have to work as a team, 

face obstacles and bad weather, 

but no matter what, 

we always reach the top."

Martin Paquette

"The higher the mountain, 

the deeper the valley"

Alsatian proverb

"Between the shores of the oceans 

and the summit of the highest mountain

is a secret road that you must travel

before you become one with the sons 

of the Earth."

Khalil Gibran

"When you have walked for two hours 

on a mountain, you are smarter."

Coline Serreau

The will allows to climb on the summits;

 without will, one remains at the foot 

of the mountain."

Chinese Proverb

"Culture is the source of all creativity.

That of geography and the history of

mountaineering makes us look at the

Alpine arc as an evidence, a beauty, 

a line to follow. A line, not the line! 

Like a line in a face."

Patrick Bérhault

• "Every lake belongs to the quietness

• desired by the swans."

• – Munia Khan

• "The still waters of a lake reflect

• the beauty around it.

• When the mind is still,

• the beauty of the Self is seen

• reflected in it."

• – B.K.S Iyengar

• 
  

• "Find a calm lake and wait for

• the twilight in silence!

• There, Existence will visit you with

• all its magnificence!

• The Existence of the Existence can best

• be felt in the presence of dimness

• and in the absence of crowds and noises!"

• – Mehmet Murat ildan

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Relaxation By The Lake

 

Relaxing by the lake, a place of peaceful beauty is a great way to unwind and connect with nature. Here are some suggestions for making the most of your time at this inspiring natural spot.

Bring a Good Book: Bring a book you've wanted to read or a favorite novel. Find a cozy spot by the lake, like in a hammock under a shady tree or by the water's edge, and get lost in the story.

Picnic: Prepare a tasty picnic with your favorite snacks and drinks. Enjoy a leisurely meal while enjoying the scenery and sounds of nature.

Mindfulness and Meditation: Relax peacefully with mindfulness exercises or meditation. Focus on your breath, listen to the sounds around you, and let go of any stress or worries.

Journaling: Bring a journal and pen to consider your thoughts and feelings. Write about your day and surroundings, or let your mind wander as you write down your thoughts.

Photography and Videography: If you like taking photos and videos, bring a camera or use your smartphone or iPad to capture the beauty of the lake and its surroundings. Try different angles, lighting, and compositions to create amazing images.

Nature Walk: Take a leisurely walk around the lake to explore the area. Appreciate the plants and environment, listen to the birds singing, and feel the peacefulness of nature. Remember to wear suitable shoes and be mindful of any wildlife you may come across for a safe and enjoyable walk.

Sunset Watching: Stay until evening to see a beautiful sunset by the lake. The sky's changing colors reflecting on the water can be a stunning and peaceful experience.

Remember to bring essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, a blanket or folding chair for comfort, and plenty of water to stay hydrated. With these items, you can enjoy your time by the lake and relish its tranquility!

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Fierce Mind, Brave Spirit, and Kind Heart

 

NjA Art & Photography l Daytona Beach 2017

Never underestimate the power held within these qualities. They intertwine, creating an unyielding force capable of overcoming any obstacle. 

The Fierce Mind 

fuels determination, 

forging a path even in the face of uncertainty. 

Through courage and resilience, 

the Brave Spirit 

stands tall, fearless by adversity. 

And the 

Kind Heart 

radiates compassion, 

spreading warmth and understanding 

to those in need. 

Together, these three intertwining traits form an unbreakable foundation, empowering individuals to inspire change, conquer fears, and touch the lives of others. Embrace these aspects, and let the world bear witness to the extraordinary that lies within you.

Allow these attributes to guide your journey. With a fierce mind, you possess the clarity to navigate challenges. Let your brave spirit be your guiding torch, illuminating your path with unwavering courage. And always, from your kind heart, extend compassion to those around you, fostering connections and igniting hope. Through the harmonious interplay of these qualities, forge your destiny, overcome boundaries, and leave a lasting mark on the world. Embrace your genuine self, and marvel at the incredible impact you are destined to make.

Embrace the power within you, nurture it, and let it flourish. Trust in your fierce mind to navigate the complexities of life. Allow your brave spirit to shine brightly, lighting the way for yourself and others. With your kind heart, extend empathy and affection to those who cross your path. Harness the unyielding force born from the intertwining of these qualities. Embody the extraordinary potential within you, conquer fears, and overcome obstacles with unwavering dedication. Embrace your true self and become a catalyst for change, leaving a memorable mark on the world around you.

Magnificent Cullasaja Waterfall

 

Cullasaja Falls is a beautiful waterfall in the Nantahala National Forest in North Carolina. It is a popular attraction for nature lovers and adventurers.

Here are some critical points about Cullasaja Falls:

Location: Cullasaja Falls is in the Cullasaja River Gorge, part of the Nantahala National Forest.

Scenic Beauty: The waterfall is known for its picturesque setting, with cascading water falling over multiple tiers along the Cullasaja River. It is surrounded by stunning greenery and a natural backdrop for visitors.

Accessibility: The falls can be reached by driving along US Highway 64, the Waterfall Byway. The falls are visible from the road, making them easily accessible for sightseeing. However, a designated trail to reach the base of the falls has yet to be developed.

Hiking Opportunities: While there is no official trail to the base of Cullasaja Falls, nearby hiking trails offer captivating views of the waterfall and the surrounding area. One popular trail is the Cullasaja Falls Trail, which runs along the Cullasaja River and provides ample opportunities for exploration and photography, allowing you to fully appreciate the elegance of the surroundings.

Cullasaja Falls is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts in North Carolina, a testament to its popularity and stunning natural beauty in a picturesque forest setting. Join the ranks of those captivated by its charm and beauty.

The Beautiful World-Class Gardens in North Georgia --- Gibbs Gardens

Gibbs Gardens is, above and beyond, a place to unwind, relax with your friends and family, colleagues, and peers, or be by yourself will do too.  You can see different flowers and plants in the Four Seasons. The ambiance is inviting. They have a shop where you can buy souvenirs if you want. They have a food center if you want to avoid bringing food. But it's also okay if you have food to cut some costs or wish to provide for yourself. 

It's better to wear comfortable shoes because there is plenty of walking in the area. You can buy tickets online, or you can also purchase them if you arrive there. For more information and the ticket's price, visit their website @ https://www.gibbsgardens.com

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New Year, New You

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Goodbye 2023

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Color Me Beautiful

 

Beautiful Fall Colors 

Through My Lens

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Perfect Faith and Victory

 

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Relishing Life

 

Find Beauty

💖

Pick Flowers

💖

Chase Rainbows

💖

Sing Songs

💖

Star Gaze

💖

Feed Birds

💖

Enjoy Life

NjA Art & Photography

Truth Be Told

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Your Dream, Small or Big Dreams

"Put Wings on Your Dreams."

- DreamMore Resort -

>> Big or Small <<

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Your Story

The Beautiful Moments of You, With You and Through You

 

NjA Art & Photography

“Slow down, take a deep breath

Remember who you are
Right now, all you can do
Is to keep walking through

When your heart is feeling heavy and your mind is full of worry
Don't forget you've made it this far

You never know what's on its way to you
Never know what's around the corner
The good and bad times in the past
Have brought you right to this moment
Every chance and every fall
Has shaped you into who you are
So don't worry, just look around
Good things will come wherever you're going

You'll know when it is time
To turn the page and let go
Highs and lows can come crashing in
But you're strong enough to weather any storm

When your heart is feeling heavy and your mind is full of worry
Don't forget you've made it this far

You never know what's on its way to you
Never know what's around the corner
The good and bad times in the past
Have brought you right to this moment
Every chance and every fall
Has shaped you into who you are
So don't worry, just look around
Good things will come wherever you're going

Ooh Ooh Ooh
Good things will come wherever you're going
Ooh Ooh Ooh
Good things will come wherever you're going

You never know what's on its way to you
Never know what's around the corner
The good and bad times in the past
Have brought you right to this moment
Every chance and every fall
Has shaped you into who you are
So don't worry, just look around
Good things will come wherever you're going

Wherever you're going, Good things will come (Ooh Ooh Ooh)

Good things will come wherever you're going

Wherever you're going, Good things will come (Ooh Ooh Ooh)

Good things will come wherever you're going”

https://youtu.be/xh73u-D3vFI

When Reality Sink In

NjA Art
Photo by: Jonathan Borba 

@ Pexels.com (no need attribution, free to use)

Your Heart

 

NjA Art & Photography

Boardwalk Daytona Beach

"It can be delayed, but not denied; 

anything that belongs to you comes to you 

when the time is right. 

Never give up. Never stop believing. 

Always have good in your heart."

--Sangeeta Rana--

NjA Art & Photography