The Maine Oracle - Two Ears One Mouth

Here is a reading for June 11, 2020, here the "Restraint" card suggests holding your tongue during trying times until a situation becomes clear. In times of great change and conflict it may be best to assume nothing.

 

The Greek Philosopher Epictetus wrote:

“We have two ears and one mouth so that we can listen twice as much as we speak.”

 

Which brings us to...

"Education" as the way forward. Here is an opportunity to reassess one's world view.  A person with an open mind and an open heart is a practical person.  

A practical person does not fight facts.

 

Going forward, armed with the truth and a better understanding of one's fellows, a person returns to "The Hive", which always hums along at its best when the occupants work together for the common good. 

 

Restraint, Education and The Hive from The Maine Oracle

 

About a Painting... More Alike Than Not Alike

While working on this piece I was reflecting on a thought that has often crossed my mind. It is this... When we as citizens put more emphasis on our perceived differences rather than our similarities, we leave ourselves vulnerable to those who would cynically exploit an all too human tendency to blame the "Other".

Here is an excerpt from Maya Angelou's "Human Family" which inspired the title for this piece...

I note the obvious differences

between each sort and type,

but we are more alike, my friends,

than we are unalike.

More Alike Than Not Alike
12 x 12"
Casein on Birch Panel

About a Painting... Frontier

In “Frontier” I've used the opening barrier as a metaphor for the ability to move beyond the boundaries of rigid thinking...  to give appropriate consideration to new schools of thought with regard to science, governance and social dynamics. 

It is wise to consider the contributions of various cultures and nations without prejudice and undue influence. 

The image also references the literal freedom to move without excessive restriction from place to place... to experience different geographic locations and peoples, and to foster diplomacy, cooperation and understanding.

Frontier
8 x 8"
Casein on Birch Panel
photo by Jay York