Saturday, 13 April 2013

ON We Go In Reverse.

"O" no, I seem to still be doing the backwards alphabet or ǝpısdn uʍop.
Out there, there's an ocean of opportunity waiting for you, waiting for me.  With an open mind and a song in our heart, we embrace the goals, beyond the green, beyond the beach and outwards to the sea.  Life and the ocean of diversity that awaits.  An ocean of possibilities, of dreams, of passion, of aspirations that you can, that I can, fulfil.

In the teeming ocean that is humanity, may we move on from stigma, from bias, from the apathy and indifference that plagues society.  We can learn.   Learn to understand.   And through awareness and celebrating an all different, all equal world, we move that one step closer to a planet of peace.

Within the orchestra of understanding, we all have the instruments to create sweet music.  In the chorus of caring, we all have the voices that sing in joyous harmony.  "O" is the ocean of serenity.
Nature and respecting the balance that is essential to all life.  I nurture my appreciation of nature's natural balance.  I rejoice in the magic that is "klahanie".  Klahanie is a word from the Chinook tribe who reside in the Pacific Northwest of  North America.  The definition of klahanie is generally accepted as meaning, "the great outdoors."   The spirit of the noble indigenous First Nation's people lives within my heart and soul.

When I went on a walk with the West Coast tribes of British Columbia, on a one hundred mile, three day walk, a wide-eyed fifteen year old boy, learnt the lessons of being as one with nature.  From Vancouver to the fittingly named town of Hope, British Columbia, we walked together, in unity on the profound journey that was "Moccasin Miles."

Between the trees in the great outdoors, flies the freedom we can know.  Peace to you, my friend in an "N" is for nature and a natural balance world.
Posted by at
Labels: , , ,

62 comments:

  1. Anonymous13 April 2013 at 23:07

    What a beautiful peaceful post Gary...I love it...and what a wonderful experience for a young teen to have, walking the Moccasin Miles. The lessons you learned there have stayed with you.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie14 April 2013 at 22:30

      Hi Delores,

      I appreciate your kind thoughts. Moccasin Miles, way back in the Easter of 1969, defined me and the lessons are dear to my heart. Thank you, my friend.

      In peace,

      Gary

      Delete
  2. Alex J. Cavanaugh13 April 2013 at 23:27

    Your blog's name means nature? I didn't know that.
    That is quite an amazing walk to undertake, especially at that age. I'm sure it was very enlightening.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie14 April 2013 at 22:33

      Hi Alex,

      My blog's name means "the great outdoors." "Klahanie" was also a Canadian natural habitat show. I'm incredibly proud of how I went alone as a fifteen year old on that walk. I wasn't alone for long. A profound experience. Thank you, my friend.

      In peace,

      Gary

      Delete
  3. Robin13 April 2013 at 23:29

    I think that everyone could use a bit more serenity and balance in their lives. This is a lovely reminder to stop and take stock of what is going on in the day to day whirl. Is there serenity? Is there balance? Do you feel at all joined to nature? If not, what changes can you make????

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie14 April 2013 at 22:41

      Hi Robin,

      Indeed, serenity and discovering what can be the elusive state of contentment. We need to learn to be as one with the natural balance of nature. May your questions be reflected upon, Robin. Thank you, my friend.

      In peace,

      Gary

      Delete
  4. MunirGhiasuddin13 April 2013 at 23:42

    I like the phrase "Ocean of opportunity" and" Ocean of Possibility". I agree that nature is one of the most soothing and calming place in there is.
    I always wondered where the word Klahanie came from. I did not know it was from Chinook tribe.


    My daughter started a blog today. She is the one who checks my blog for spelling etc as I am old and rusty. I hope that you take a look at it. http://ijustlikelikingthings.blogspot.com/

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie14 April 2013 at 22:45

      Hi Munir,

      Thank you for liking those phrases. Just to be out there, out there in the great outdoors, fills the heart with hope and moments of gentle peace. Indeed, the name of my blog embraces the ideals of those noble people.

      I have made note of your daughter's blog, Munir. I shall duly go and have a visit. I shall welcome her to the ethos of a sharing, caring blogging community. Thank you, my friend.

      In peace,

      Gary

      Delete
  5. L. Diane Wolfe14 April 2013 at 00:13

    Chinook? Are you kidding? I grew up in the Pacific NW and so few people know about the Chinook Indians. (Or the Chinook Salmon - one my family fished for a regular basis.) That is wonderful that your blog title means peace in their language.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie14 April 2013 at 22:49

      Hi Diane,

      No kidding. Like you, I grew up in the Pacific NW. I have had a fair amount of interaction with the native tribes of the west coast. Ah yes, Chinook salmon. Sockeye salmon, perhaps.

      And now you know the powerful meaning behind my blog.

      Thank you, my friend.

      In peace,

      Gary

      Delete
  6. Pat Hatt14 April 2013 at 00:23

    Never knew that
    That you are one with nature at your mat
    Remind me never to stray
    When you are going out for a hike at your bay
    For I may enjoy if you whistle a tune
    But that has no need to go all one with nature and see a full moon

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie14 April 2013 at 22:54

      Hi Pat,

      I take heart in nature's song
      A place we all belong
      The moon glows on trees
      It puts you at ease
      Hark you hear a soulful tune
      Tis the sound of a distant loon.

      Delete
  7. Dizzy-Dick14 April 2013 at 00:24

    I am the happiest when I am away from civilization and out in nature. That doesn't happen near enough anymore. This getting old thing has its disadvantages for sure. I have been in four Providences of Canada and B.C was my favorite.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie14 April 2013 at 22:58

      Hi Dizzy-Dick,

      I sensed you were a gentleman who likes to get away from it all. The hectic throng of civilization. I'm sure, when you can, you still go for gentle strolls. British Columbia is also my favourite. Then again, I would say that.

      Thank you, my friend.

      In peace,

      Gary

      Delete
  8. lotta joy14 April 2013 at 02:30

    I wish I could go for a stroll, which is not a walk. Far from it. In fact, you make me yearn for a strolling partner as it would make it more interesting with a fellow who notices the details.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie14 April 2013 at 23:01

      Hi lotta joy,

      A stroll where you take the time to observe, to savour the wonders all around you. Ideally, you are accompanied by someone who also takes those moments to appreciate.

      Thank you, my friend.

      In peace,

      Gary

      Delete
  9. Patricia Stoltey14 April 2013 at 02:34

    How did you make "upside down" upside down? Lovely post and lovely photos.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie14 April 2013 at 23:06

      Hi Patricia,

      I turned my keyboard upside down and ˙sıɥʇ pǝuǝddɐɥ :) Thank you for liking my post and photos.

      Okay, here you are,

      http://www.sevenwires.com/play/UpsideDownLetters.html

      Thank you, my friend.

      In peace,

      Gary

      Delete
  10. Rawknrobyn.blogspot.com14 April 2013 at 04:28

    Your photos are stunning, and I love that part of the world. I have relatives in Canada, and my mom is from Alberta. British Columbia is a favorite vacation spot - Victoria or anywhere else in that beautiful part of the world. Your name suits you well. Thanks for this serene post.

    PS Did you need to stand on your head to write those words upside down?

    xoRobyn

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie14 April 2013 at 23:10

      Hi Robyn,

      That's very kind of you. I of course, also love that part of the world. Victoria, is one of my favourite cities and I have many a fond memory of being there. I'm flattered you think my blog name suits me :)

      How did you know that I stood on my head? Ha ha!

      Thank you, my friend.

      In peace,

      Gary x

      Delete
  11. Mark Means14 April 2013 at 04:34

    I had wondered about the name of your blog...I thought it was Hawaiian, so...

    Aloha Gary! :)

    Take care, my friend!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie14 April 2013 at 23:11

      Hi Mark,

      Hawaii? Not bad, thanks. Is it true that if you visit Hawaii you get a "lei"? :)

      Thank you, my friend.

      In peace,

      Gary

      Delete
  12. Dixie@dcrelief14 April 2013 at 04:44

    It's your blog - do as you wish. Is that a photo with a large balloon floating by? Lovely pics - all of them, Gary. :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie14 April 2013 at 23:15

      Hi Dixie,

      Penny the Jack Russell dog and modest internet superstar might not agree with you :) I think it's some sort of hang glider. Thank you for thinking they are lovely photos, Dixie.

      Thank you, my friend.

      In peace,

      Gary

      Delete
  13. Yolanda Renée14 April 2013 at 05:10

    I love the Pacific Northwest, and miss it terribly. It's so easy to appreciate nature there, not as much concrete, steel, or people. As long as you stay away from the cities.

    Lovely piece, thank you for sharing! Now I'm homesick. . .

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie14 April 2013 at 23:32

      Hi Yolanda,

      We share a love for the Pacific Northwest. I remember being on "Long Beach" on Vancouver Island. Remote, desolate, beautiful.

      Great, now I'm homesick. Time to go home, me thinks.

      Thank you, my friend.

      In peace,

      Gary

      Delete
  14. Elephant's Child14 April 2013 at 06:27

    This is, as usual, an outstanding post. Thank you. I love your optomistic and caring nature - and can only wish an ocean of good things to go your way.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie14 April 2013 at 23:34

      Hi Elephant's Child,

      You are most kind. May we all celebrate the ocean of opportunity that offers us a new way in tune with the balance of nature. Optimism and caring, we both embrace.

      Thank you, my friend.

      In peace,

      Gary

      Delete
  15. Ida Thought14 April 2013 at 06:47

    My next question was going to be What does Klahanie mean? I thought I should at least wait until I read some of your older stuff first, but you answered it today, and a few other questions I had too. An orchestra of understanding... what a divine image - I long for the day I can dance to that tune in it's entirety... Is that you on the parachute glidey thingy?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie14 April 2013 at 23:49

      Hi Ida,

      My second ever posting actually went into the details of the meaning behind "klahanie". I'm heartened that I have answered some questions.

      A symphony of serenity :) May the day come when we all have our instruments tuned to nature's music.

      I wish it had been me. I took the photo when I was at a place called "Minter Gardens", which is located about seventy miles due east of Vancouver.

      Thank you, my friend.

      In peace,

      Gary

      Delete
  16. Rum-Punch Drunk14 April 2013 at 07:13

    Ah, that's what the name Klahanie means 'the great outdoors'. It's always interesting when you know what certain names mean or where they come from.

    This world has such beauty all around us, but few of us really get to see it and I feel so useless when I hear about people who just want to keep destroying it year after year. Some things ought to be left alone.

    I would love to take that Moccasin Miles walk, the scenery you must have seen would have been breath-taking and I can imagine Penny running like mad for hours. Is that someone parachuting in the midst of that photo Gary? I wouldn't want to go that far. Lovely peaceful, serene post.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie14 April 2013 at 23:57

      Hi Rum-Punch Drunk,

      It most certainly does. And being a reluctant recluse, the name continues to challenge me. I'm interested in how you came about with your blog's name. However, I respect you may not wish to disclose that.

      In the name of selfish greed, there are those who destroy our precious planet. The madness has to stop.

      Some of the most awesome scenery I've ever experienced. Combined with the spirituality of the journey, it has deeply impacted how I am. I can almost imagine Penny going on a three day, one hundred mile walk :) I believe that's someone floating about using a hang glider. I appreciate your kind words.

      Thank you, my friend.

      In peace,

      Gary

      Delete
  17. Anonymous14 April 2013 at 08:28

    Looks a beautiful place Gary, the scenery is awesome as is the written word.
    Take care.
    Yvonne.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie14 April 2013 at 23:59

      Hi Yvonne,

      The top photo is the beach near Cardigan, Wales. The second photo was taken about seventy miles east of Vancouver. I thank you for such a flattering comment.

      Thank you, my friend.

      In peace,

      Gary

      Delete
  18. Suzanne Furness14 April 2013 at 09:55

    This was a lovely peaceful post to read on a grey Sunday morning. Thank you, Gary. I often wondered about your name Klahanie it is great to hear of its origins and meaning.

    A peaceful day to you.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie15 April 2013 at 00:02

      Hi Suzanne,

      I'm delighted this posting may have brought you a bit of light on a grey Sunday morn. My pleasure to let you know the meaning of my blog name.

      And a peaceful new week to you.

      Thank you, my friend.

      In peace,

      Gary

      Delete
  19. Eat To Live14 April 2013 at 10:46

    I had no idea what klahanie meant until now. Very cool Gary!! I agree with respecting the balance of nature,.. something we need to think about more often.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie15 April 2013 at 00:04

      Hi Terry,

      And now you know :) Oh yes, the balance of nature needs to be most assuredly respected. We are seeing the worrying signs of imbalance.

      Thank you, my friend.

      In peace,

      Gary

      Delete
  20. Old Kitty14 April 2013 at 12:45

    Thank you for enlightening me to the meaning of this most unusual word "klahanie"!! I never knew and now I do!! Yay!! But I am still at a loss how you did your upside down lettering! LOL!!

    The ocean of humanity has many things to learn from the balance of nature! Take care
    x

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie15 April 2013 at 00:16

      Hi Old Kitty,

      Always good to enlighten you :) Hang on a second, just have to turn my keyboard upside down and ǝɹǝɥʇ noʎ oƃ :)

      Indeed, the ocean of humanity has lessons to be learnt from nature's natural balance.

      Thank you, my friend.

      In peace,

      Gary
      x

      Delete
  21. Jeff Hargett14 April 2013 at 16:46

    What a wonderful, almost poetic, post. (Granted, I did just take my meds, but still... ) I didn't know the origin of "klahanie" but I'm glad to know now. Your sentiments for the peace that could be is one I share and long for myself. And from that longing comes hope. Thanks for the reminder.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie15 April 2013 at 00:19

      Hi Jeff,

      Why thank you, meds or not! :) And the name of my blog has much significance. I sensed you were of the same ideals. Together, in hope, we can still redress the balance.

      Thank you, my friend.

      In peace,

      Gary

      Delete
  22. Suzanne Bean14 April 2013 at 16:47

    HI Gary:
    I didn't realize the meaning of klahanie!!! Wonderful!!! Your coming of age experience sounds wonderful. Being at peace within ourselves, creates peace with Mother Earth. An ex-boyfriend/still friend is native, so I learned a lot about the culture during that time. There is something so beautiful about acknowledging our connection to nature!! Beautiful post!!
    Hugs,
    Suzanne

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie15 April 2013 at 00:26

      Hi Suzanne Bean,

      I knew you would relate to the meaning of "klahanie." It was one of the most awesome and defining times of my life. A positive environment starts from within and we transcend that environment to the outer environment. You will know of their wisdom within their culture. I appreciate your words that resonate the ambience.

      Thank you, my friend.

      In peace and hugs,

      Gary

      Delete
  23. Al Penwasser14 April 2013 at 19:23

    OH my, what beautiful pictures!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie15 April 2013 at 00:28

      Hi Al,

      Delighted to see your good self here. Glad you liked the photos. I think I shall now go laze about for a bit :)

      Thank you, my friend.

      In peace,

      Gary

      Delete
  24. Mel Chesley14 April 2013 at 19:46

    Nice! I didn't know the meaning of Klahanie either. Very nice post. :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie15 April 2013 at 00:30

      Hi Mel,

      Thank you. The name I chose has inspired me. Thank you for liking this post, Mel.

      Be well and enjoy the week ahead.

      In kindness,

      Gary

      Delete
  25. Manzanita14 April 2013 at 20:22

    It appears you zapped everyone today with the meaning of Klahanie. Myself included. But .... as I sit here by my window in reverie this Sunday, watching it snow.....yes, snow on 4/14, I went under the spell of the falling white stuff and felt the peace that is carved into this state called Montana. Helena, the capital, still has small town values. Doors are unlocked and there is very little crime. Why is that? This state still has the laws and values on which it was founded. I know the answer, it came through in a flash as all the pieces of the puzzle fell into place.
    That was my reverie and then I went back to reading blogs and yours is so much in tune with what I am thinking.
    Thank you
    Manzanita

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie15 April 2013 at 00:37

      Hi Manzanita,

      "Zapped"? Aha, you remind me of my first posting in the non-conformist alphabet :)

      The snow floated down from the "Big Sky." Small town values, where you can leave your doors unlocked. If only more of America was like the ideals, the cherished values of Montana.

      Gentle reading, my friend. Your resonance of serenity flows through the miles. I thank you, dear lady.

      In peace, hope and goodwill,

      Gary

      Delete
  26. Julia Hones14 April 2013 at 23:34

    An inspiring message of love, harmony and peace for mankind. Wonderful. Thanks.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie15 April 2013 at 00:39

      Hi Julia,

      You have encapsulated my thoughts, my hopes, my dreams that we wish to become a profound reality. My friend, thank you.

      Peaceful wishes to you in the beautiful Pacific Northwest.

      Gary

      Delete
  27. Laura Eno15 April 2013 at 01:31

    Your post inspired a sense of peace in me as I read. Thank you for that. I needed it. Your running backward throught the alphabet also brought a smile to my face. :) Non-conformists rock!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie15 April 2013 at 02:16

      Hi Laura,

      I'm heartened this posting created a sense of peace for you. A positive result. Ironically, my sometimes satirical take on the A to Z, has promoted it. Here's to being a non-conformist. Rock on! And thank you kindly for linking into my site. Most appreciated.

      In kindness and good wishes, your way,

      Gary

      Delete
  28. KimT15 April 2013 at 03:19

    Beautiful thoughts, and as usual you are right on target about what we should focus on.

    Peace to you and yours too, dear friend!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie15 April 2013 at 15:05

      Hi Kim,

      Thank you and I know you share such ideals. If only more were like your dear self.

      And peace, dear lady, to you and your loved ones.

      In peace and hope,

      Gary :)

      Delete
  29. Cat and DOG Chat With Caren15 April 2013 at 12:08

    Mom always wanted to live in a forest, in a tree house.....away from people :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie15 April 2013 at 15:06

      Hi Cody,

      I like your mum's thinking. What say we all go live in a tree house! :)

      Hope your mum is feeling better, Cody.

      Penny's human,

      Gary :)

      Delete
  30. Hilary Melton-Butcher16 April 2013 at 15:15

    Hi Gary .. I think I'd always thought Klahanie had something to do with deep thoughts - but now I see it is freedom away from life ... the great outdoors, that can't hold us in ... the escapement is there ...

    The balloon standing out turquoise against the green of the valley of trees - is the odd man out ... but one we'd all like to be ... the winds carry us along, we do our own thing, yet we are at one with nature for a short ride ... a time to experience that freedom ...

    I do not like conforming ... but I do to a point ... just try and retain my uniqueness ... as you do with your insights into the mind of life and living with many constraints and challenges ...

    With many happier thoughts on this somewhat warmer Spring day .. cheers Hilary

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. klahanie16 April 2013 at 21:05

      Hi Hilary,

      In a way, you are correct. Deep thoughts and the intertwining of the great outdoors. Freedom of out hearts, minds and souls.

      You totally understood what I was trying to convey in the photograph, Hilary. I'm most encouraged by that.

      Conformity in entirety would be boring. Yet, within the challenge, you still do it your way. I like that.

      Indeed, the weather has improved. Very windy but warmer. Be well and cheers to you.

      Gary :)

      Delete
  31. Anonymous18 April 2013 at 23:26

    Pretty pictures....so craving for a retreat to nature! (TGIF!)

    ReplyDelete
  32. klahanie18 April 2013 at 23:49

    Hi Mel,

    Indeed and Lucy Leek would probably like a stroll in the great outdoors :)

    Gary :)

    ReplyDelete

I do try to comment back to each commenter individually. However, I might have to shorten my replies or give a group thank you. That way, I can spend more time commenting on your blogs. Thank you and peace, my friend.

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)