Editor's Statement

I look around me and am amazed at all the beauty there is in this world. Spring’s glorious display of blooming flowers is confirmation of nature’s light and her many gifts. As nature photographers it is a time for us to celebrate bountiful opportunities to add exquisite images to our portfolios.

Since we humans are governed each day by the circadian rhythm that affects living organisms, it makes sense to me that each season, with its unique characteristics, affects us as well. We are like a flower unfolding as we move from winter—a time to conserve energy and reduce activity—into spring—a time of regeneration and renewal of all aspects of ourselves.

Since spring is this time of regeneration, new beginnings, and a renewal of spirit, how does this season affect us at the deepest level? How does it contribute to our freedom of spirit and love of all? Well, I do not know about anyone else, but I like to rise with the sun, throw open the windows in our office and flood the room with cool, fresh fragrant air, eat lunch on the deck on sunny days and marvel at the new green on the trees, and go for brisk love-filled hikes with Marty and Phyllis to deepen my connection with God through time in nature. I strive to reach a higher level of who I am capable of being.

When I spend time with Desi (Desert Sands) the mustang I work with, I am amused at how she will leave the hay manger for a period and patiently nibble the tiniest bit of green growing from Mother Earth. But more significantly, I find myself growing as a result of her lessons about freedom of spirit, the same spirit I see in the wild mustang image above. It is magical and defies explanation—it is light, it is present, it is connected with God, it is love. As humans we are offered the opportunity to experience a deep spiritual connection with God and all life. I endeavor to love without judgment. These are my goals, and as I move toward them the light shines brighter.

I have faith that by more deeply appreciating the role of each human, animal, plant, and mineral—I will love to a greater degree. I will also see the beauty that all have to offer to the greater whole and therefore life becomes a perpetual springtime of light and freedom of spirit.

For me love is light and it is a great equalizer. Leo Buscaglia said, “Love is always open arms. If you close your arms about love you will find that you are left holding only yourself.”

I hope that spring’s beauty brings smiles to your face and laughter to your lips and may you have wonderful photography experiences translating individual moments to beautiful light-filled images.

Love and Namaste,

Helen