random thoughts: on blogging, the global village and martin luther king jr.

Over the weekend, I came across this series of portraits that were taken of well-known bloggers.  When I first looked at them, I thought they brilliantly captured what a solitary experience it can be to blog.

And then I looked at the comments from my previous post,* and realized what a global experience it can be to blog.

Thank you so much for your kind words.  I love thinking that with all of your help, we've managed to make Chookooloonks a really global community.  And more importantly, you guys make it seriously fun to write and shoot.

* * * * * * *

Today happens to be a holiday in the United States, honouring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  Every year on this day, I try to make a point of either reading the text of Martin Luther King's famous "I Have A Dream" speech, or watching the video.  It brings me to tears every time -- King was so incredible. 

I've been thinking about him a lot lately, actually, wondering what he might say in these extremely divisive times, not just here in the United States, but all over the world.  Last night I came across the following quote, and it seemed to me that it's never been more applicable than it is right now.

"Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.  I can never be what I ought to be until you are what you ought to be.  This is the interrelated structure of reality."

And on that note, have a peaceful day, everyone.

* Finally, to business:  the winner of the giveaway on National Delurking Day is Connie, who said "A little hello from Chicagoland!  Saladpalooza. Love it."  Congratulations, Connie!  You'll receive an email from requesting your smail mail address, so I can send you a signed copy of The Beauty of Different.

Images:  Photographed with my Nikon D300 and 60mm micro lens.

Song: My friend by Groove Armada