Blog

As the stormy clouds loom above, a mesmerizing dance of light and shadow unfolds in the vast expanse of the prairie at Homewood Izaak Walton Preserve in Illinois. It is during this transitional period of early Fall that nature unveils a breathtaking spectacle of vibrant hues, where the vivid colors of autumn foliage ignite against the dramatic backdrop of the turbulent sky.

In this remarkable moment in time, captured with utter precision (with God and my camera there is no coincidence I believe), every intricate detail becomes a testament to the divine artistry that surrounds us. It serves as a poignant reminder that even amidst the chaos and uncertainty of life, there is a sublime order at play, a masterful symphony composed by a higher power.

Just as the light seeps through the stormy clouds, illuminating the landscape with its ethereal glow, so too can we allow the presence of something greater into our lives. Whether we refer to it as divine intervention, the hand of God, or simply the power of nature, there is a profound beauty in recognizing that there is something beyond ourselves, a force that meticulously tends to the minutiae of existence.

This photograph encapsulates not only the extraordinary beauty found in nature but also serves as a gentle reminder to open ourselves up to the exquisite details that comprise our own lives. Just as the colors in the prairie bloom with intensity, we too can find purpose and meaning in the smallest of moments.

So, let us be mindful of the wonders that surround us, both grand and minuscule. Let us embrace the divinity present in the delicacy of a fallen leaf, the wonder of a passing storm, and the gentle flicker of light cutting through the darkness. For when we allow ourselves to become attuned to the nuances of the world, we create space for gratitude, awe, and an ever-deepening connection to the profound symphony of life.

That’s it for this Sunday Letter. Thank you for reading, talk with you again soon,

Frank

Photo: Early Autumn Prairie Stormy Sky - Color Nature Art Photograph Copyright 2022 Frank J Casella -frankjcasella.pixels.com

https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/early-autumn-prairie-stormy-sky-frank-j-casella.html




--

Subscribe by RSS https://fineartamerica.com/rss/blogs/frankjcasella

To receive blog posts like this one straight in your inbox, subscribe to the E-mail newsletter. Unsubscribe at any time.

Forgiveness is a complex and deeply personal journey. It is often said that forgiving others is easier than forgiving oneself. This is due to several factors, including our own high standards and expectations, as well as the guilt and shame we may carry within.

One of the reasons forgiveness is important is the burden of unmet expectations. We often have certain expectations of ourselves and others, and when those expectations are not met, it can lead to disappointment, resentment, and a breakdown in relationships. Forgiveness allows us to release these expectations and find peace within ourselves.

Another reason forgiveness is crucial is the presence of unresolved anger. Holding onto anger can have detrimental effects on our emotional and physical well-being. It can poison our thoughts, strain our relationships, and prevent us from moving forward in life. By forgiving ourselves and others, we can free ourselves from the toxic grip of anger and find inner harmony.

In the Bible, 2 Corinthians 5:19 reminds us of the power of forgiveness. It states, “God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation.” This verse highlights the divine call to extend forgiveness and promote reconciliation, not only with others but also with ourselves.

Remember, forgiveness is a personal journey, and it takes time and effort. It involves recognizing and accepting our mistakes, letting go of resentments, and choosing to move forward with compassion and understanding. By embracing forgiveness, we can experience healing, growth, and restored relationships in our lives.

May this message of forgiveness and reconciliation inspire you on your path of self-forgiveness and inner peace.

---

Photo: The Seasons of Life - Color Photograph Copyright 2020 Frank J Casella - https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/the-seasons-of-life-frank-j-casella.html
The bold Fall colored leaves dominates the road intersection in the Midwest American hometown of Homewood, Illinois. The blue sky and green grass contrast the Autumn colors. Just as the road of life has it's seasons, so too with this tree which changes with each season as cars drive by year round. Copyright 2020 Frank J Casella.



--

Subscribe by RSS https://fineartamerica.com/rss/blogs/frankjcasella

To receive blog posts like this one straight in your inbox, subscribe to the E-mail newsletter. Unsubscribe at any time.

Take a look at this stunning collection of autumn leaf photos. They showcase the beautiful colors, patterns, and texture of leaves during this enchanting season. Click on any photo below to explore them on my artistic website and indulge in this captivating visual experience.


These photos highlight the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows that leaves acquire as they undergo their transformative journey in autumn. They remind us of the ever-changing nature of life and the beauty that can be found in imperfection.


As you contemplate the graceful descent of these leaves, gently swaying in the autumn breeze before settling on the ground, let it serve as a reminder to appreciate the present moment. Embrace the passing seasons of life and cherish the moments of beauty that enrich our existence.


Each leaf is unique, just like each of us. God created this beauty and it reminds us to enjoy and appreciate the world around us. Even though the leaves may have flaws, they still bring beauty to the world for a short time. Let’s keep our pursuit of perfection balanced.


Enjoy these stunning photos and let them fill you with inspiration and joy. Marvel at the beauty of nature captured in each image. Thank you for reading and viewing.

— Frank J Casella




The Colors of Autumn - Fall foliage on the road marking the start of the Autumn Season. Copyright 2013 Frank J Casella




Morning Frost Autumn Leaves - One of the common threads of my photographs is the details of light and shadow. The other thread is to share visually hope and God's love in the world. What this image shows for me is how each leaf has it's own set of details, just like each one of us. God made all of this, and knows what He is doing. Copyright 2019 Frank J Casella




Autumn Leaves and Raindrops - Perfection can get in the way of our success, if we let it. How to keep this in balance is key. Copyright 2019 Frank J Casella




Falling Leaves Green Grass - Abstract Colors - Frank J Casella - Copyright 2019 - A Fall leaf in the grass that illustrates the perfection of what God has created, to enjoy this beauty while on earth, in addition to His creating our lives. Although the leaf has flaws and scars, it still brings much beauty into the world for the short time of one season, just as our lives our short lived.



--

Subscribe by RSS https://fineartamerica.com/rss/blogs/frankjcasella

To receive blog posts like this one straight in your inbox, subscribe to the E-mail newsletter. Unsubscribe at any time.

Often when I sit down to write these blogs, I find myself pondering the question of profundity. What exactly makes something profound? Can it be defined by the complexity of an idea or the intricacy of its execution? Or is it possible that simplicity and commonality hold the key to true profundity?

As I navigate through these thoughts, I am reminded of a quote by Matthew Kelly that resonates deeply within me: “Most of the time holiness is just about doing the ordinary things of everyday life really well.” This statement encapsulates the notion that profundity often lies in the simplest of actions.

Indeed, it is fascinating to observe how what may appear ordinary or mundane to one person can be viewed as profound by another, purely based on their individual perspectives and worldviews. Take the example of the sky opening up after or before a storm. For some, it is a moment of awe-inspiring beauty—a sight that fills the heart with a sense of wonder and reverence. But for others, it may elicit feelings of apprehension or even bring forth a fear of the storm’s potential threat to their well-being.

It is during moments like these that the power of interpretation becomes apparent. What may seem profound or unremarkable depends on how we respond to what we see, hear, or experience. Our unique perspectives shape our perception of the world, and that is what makes every individual’s journey through life so richly diverse and infinitely intriguing.

In contemplating the notion of holiness, it becomes evident that even those whom society deems as the epitome of sanctity can harbor doubts and uncertainties. Many individuals I have had the privilege of conversing with, who exude an aura of profound holiness, often express a profound sense of unworthiness or a feeling of falling short in practicing their faith. It is a humbling reminder that even the most seemingly virtuous individuals have their own personal battles and struggles.

Therefore, it is crucial to recognize that as human beings, we are interconnected in our journeys. We need one another to navigate the complexities of life, to inspire, and to support each other. Each person we encounter has the power to leave a lasting impact, to challenge our preconceived notions, and to help us grow spiritually and emotionally. We all play a part in making a positive difference in this world.

Have a blessed day,
Frank



Color Birdbath with Flowers Copyright 2019 Frank J Casella

License Image Here

Buy Wholesale Here

Comment or question? Contact me

--

Subscribe to the blog only by RSS https://fineartamerica.com/rss/blogs/frankjcasella

Great Art... Delivered to Your Inbox! Sign up for priority access to future blogs, important updates, and more!

Unsubscribe at any time. Approximately one to three e-mails per week. We never share your e-mail address or send spam.

For more information and where to find me online visit here


============

This stunning photograph captures a serene moment titled ‘Reading in the Park – City of Chicago’. With the embrace of great summer weather and the tranquil surroundings of nature, Millennium Park in Chicago, Illinois becomes a haven for individuals seeking moments of respite and intellectual nourishment. As the vibrant greenery provides a soothing backdrop, the park becomes a perfect setting for people to immerse themselves in the world of literature.

In a fast-paced world, it is crucial to find a harmonious balance between the demands of daily life and the pursuit of knowledge. As we indulge in the art of reading, we open ourselves up to a universe of ideas, stories, and perspectives that expand our intellectual horizons. Whether it is a classic novel, a thought-provoking non-fiction book, or a collection of poetry, the act of reading provides us with a gateway to new worlds and allows us to explore the depths of human imagination.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of a thriving metropolis, finding moments of tranquility can be a challenge. Yet, the beauty of spaces like Millennium Park lies in their ability to offer an oasis of calm amidst the urban chaos. As we bask in the gentle breeze and the rays of sunlight and shadow play filtering through the leaves, we immerse ourselves in the sensory experience of being surrounded by nature. This momentary respite allows us to focus our attention, absorb the words on the page, and delve into the narratives that authors have painstakingly crafted.

Beyond the sheer pleasure of silence and the acquisition of knowledge, reading has a transformative power that shapes our lives. Through the characters we encounter, we gain insights into the complexities of the human experience. We witness the triumphs and tribulations of individuals, empathizing with their struggles, and celebrating their victories. Reading not only broadens our understanding of the world, but it also fosters empathy, compassion, and resilience.

In the heart of Chicago, where the vibrant energy of a bustling city dwells, there exists a haven of intellectual exploration and tranquility. It is within the green embrace of Millennium Park that individuals gather. So, let us embrace the opportunity to lose ourselves in the written word, to expand our minds, and to nurture our souls.

That’s it for this Sunday Letter. Thank you for reading, talk with you again soon,

Frank

Photo: 'Reading In The Park - City of Chicago' - Great summer weather and quiet nature brings people out to Millennium park in Chicago, Illinois. It’s important in life to have balance and to do some reading so that we may grow our knowledge and prosper our life in this world. https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/reading-in-the-park-city-of-chicago-frank-j-casella.html



--

Subscribe by RSS https://fineartamerica.com/rss/blogs/frankjcasella

To receive blog posts like this one straight in your inbox, subscribe to the E-mail newsletter. Unsubscribe at any time.

This week, an important discussion took place about respecting and being kind to one another. The US Capitol held a hearing to address issues of censorship, polarization, and corruption that are harming our country.

During the hearing, I observed the presence of four notable witnesses, each offering their unique perspectives and expertise on the matter at hand. However, among them, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. stood out as the epitome of eloquence and unwavering passion. His arguments displayed an extensive understanding of the subject matter, leaving a lasting impression on all those present.

It was disheartening, though, to witness the apparent lack of concern from certain lawmakers for Mr. Kennedy’s insights. Despite inviting him to provide answers, they seemed determined to silence him prematurely, denying him the opportunity to fully convey his points. This unfortunate behavior inadvertently served as a testament to the very censorship he asserted was prevalent in our society.

In any democratic society, it is crucial to nurture an environment that encourages open and honest discussions, even when opinions differ. The purpose of a hearing should be to foster dialogue, exchange ideas, and gain a deeper understanding of various perspectives. However, when individuals are repeatedly cut off or prevented from expressing their thoughts, the essence of fruitful discourse is lost.

This incident highlights the need for our lawmakers to actively listen, engage, and respect the views of all witnesses. By doing so, they not only uphold the principles of free speech but also demonstrate a genuine commitment to the democratic ideals that underpin our society.

Likewise, one of the best friends I ever had taught me much about how every person has a right to their own opinion, but not their own facts. Photography and Art play a great deal in our culture to share opinions and ideas, as well as presenting the facts. As I often say, people need works of Art that are examples of goodness and hope – simple moments in time can create lasting impressions or make you smile if even for a moment.

Art allows us to see life differently and encourages conversation. What we consume shapes our thoughts and behaviors.

That’s it for this Sunday Letter. Thank you for reading, talk with you again soon,

Frank

---
Photo: 'Connections' - Electrical workers install wire on utility poles silhouetted by the sunset in mid-west America. Copyright 2012 Frank J Casella. Reference: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/connections-frank-j-casella.html
---


--

Subscribe by RSS https://fineartamerica.com/rss/blogs/frankjcasella

To receive blog posts like this one straight in your inbox, subscribe to the E-mail newsletter. Unsubscribe at any time.

There are several blogs I host on the internet that require action or response from the reader. So a few years ago I started a personal blog on the Vivaldi platform, my intent was to share the things I don't talk about, that are not meant to be 'monetized'. However, the vibe and business model over there is moving in a different direction. This is what I cal 'the beast' of online platforms ....

I mentioned to you in a resent blog post that I intended to just move all of that content over here, and keep posting everything on one blog. However, some of you provided my very constructive pushback, that my personal thoughts should be just that ... personal. So I started a new blog here on the same Wordpress platform you're reading this blog. The main difference is that now you can subscribe to get each new blog post by email, just as you do with this blog.

Why is this important?

This is best said from what I shared in a personal blog post over there:

"The reason for sharing your thoughts is that it not only helps to form our own opinions, but that we all have a right to our own opinion even if we don’t have a right to our own facts. It doesn’t matter if others are reading what you are saying, because you need to do this for yourself first. ... I have been (and you will be) surprised that when people in the real world ask for opinions how much (you and) I will have it, and speak it, well thought out already.
https://fjcasella.wordpress.com/2020/10/29/people-dont-like-what-i-say/

The rest of it has not changed from the First Thoughts on that blog as well:

I plan to make a blog entry at least once a week, and hopefully more, that is NOT about my interests with photography, the Catholic Faith, manhood, or art, but rather everything else I might be thinking about and just need to write it down.

Thinking is a rare commodity in our world today, especially with the distractions of our information age. It is important now to be mindful how we are intentional about blocking out time with our own thoughts.

For example, it is said how the late Abraham Lincoln, when he was President of the United States, would spend much time in pure solitude with the decisions that he had to make after he got feedback from his advisors.

So I hope that you enjoy this blog, and come back to it often if it speaks to you. I don’t expect you to comment (though many as you can see have), because this blog is more about my thought process and I hope you can benefit from it.



Photo: 'Starbucks Coffee Vibe' - Walking past this coffee house in the millennium train station in Chicago, Illinois, I couldn't help but stop to capture the vibe of this moment in time.
Copyright 2021 Frank J Casella.

Reference Link - https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/starbucks-coffee-vibe-frank-j-casella.html




--

Subscribe by RSS https://fineartamerica.com/rss/blogs/frankjcasella

To receive blog posts like this one straight in your inbox, subscribe to the E-mail newsletter. Unsubscribe at any time.

I was drawn to this moment of an American Flag mounted on a tree with blooming flowers below it, in the country morning sunlight, because it reminds me of how this Flag is a symbol of "Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness", a well-known phrase in the United States Declaration of Independence. The phrase gives three examples of the "unalienable rights" which the Declaration says have been given to all human beings by their Creator, and which governments are created to protect. Without it we have chaos.

The American flag is a symbol of our nation and our people. It is a reminder to us that we are all united under one banner, and that we are all fighting for the same cause. It is a sign of our strength and our resilience, and it is a symbol of our commitment to our values and our way of life.

The American flag is a symbol that means that we serve everybody equally without discrimination, but we do not show favoritism. Many American flags are displayed in my Midwest community, as it represents the strong support there is for the country among average people. Seeing these flags reminds me that there are still people in America who are willing to fight for our freedoms and the American way of life - even when it seems like the situation is not looking good. This proud sight will make everyone who sees it feel proud and patriotic.

Our woke overlords want us to think that America is a nation that needs to be destroyed in order to atone for the injustices that it has committed in the past. The “progressive” ideology is rooted in victim-hood and requires that America be dismantled in order to rebuild it in their own image. America was founded on the principle of individual liberty and self-reliance, so it’s no surprise that they don’t understand or appreciate this. Why do you have to have the Pride flag shown on government property to be represented? You’re already represented. We already know who you are.

According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, allegiance is “the faithful observance of an obligation, especially a sworn declaration or pledge of allegiance.” In this context, the American flag is an object of allegiance. Contrary to what some people might think, the flag does not restrict freedom of speech. In fact, it is one of the few things that can unite people from all walks of life under one banner. To show allegiance to the American flag is not a political statement, but a demonstration of patriotism.

The national flag of the United States of America (or the American flag) consists of thirteen equal horizontal stripes of red (top and bottom) alternating with white, with a blue rectangle in the canton (referred to specifically as the 'union') bearing fifty small, white, five-pointed stars arranged in nine offset horizontal rows of six stars (top and bottom) alternating with rows of five stars.

The 50 stars on the flag represent the 50 states and the 13 stripes represent the thirteen British colonies that rebelled against the British monarchy and became the first states in the Union.

Nicknames for the flag include the 'Stars and Stripes', 'Old Glory' and 'The Star-Spangled Banner'

Thus the American Flag unites American's as One Nation under God with Liberty and Justice for All.


Photo: Life and Liberty - Color Photograph of American Flag and Flowers - Copyright 2020 Frank J Casella - https://fineartamerica.com/featured/life-and-liberty-frank-j-casella.html



--

Subscribe by RSS https://fineartamerica.com/rss/blogs/frankjcasella

To receive blog posts like this one straight in your inbox, subscribe to the E-mail newsletter. Unsubscribe at any time.

American Flags on display in front of houses in Midwest America .. in black and white.


Prayer for Memorial Day

God of power and mercy,
you destroy war and put down earthly pride.
Banish violence from our midst and wipe away our tears,
that we may all deserve to be called your sons
and daughters.
Keep in your mercy those men and women
who have died in the cause of freedom
and bring them safely
into your kingdom of justice and peace.
We ask this though Jesus Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen




Prayer for Our Troops

Lord God, Almighty Father,
creator of mankind and author of peace,
as we are ever mindful of the cost paid for the liberty we possess,
we ask you to bless the members of our armed forces.
Give them courage, hope and strength.
May they ever experience your firm support, gentle love and compassionate healing.
Be their power and protector, leading them from darkness to light.
To you be all glory, honor and praise, now and forever.
R/. Amen.

https://www.usccb.org/prayers/prayer-our-troops
https://www.usccb.org/prayers/prayer-memorial-day-last-monday-may


Photo: Freedom in Black and White - Copyright 2012 Frank J Casella - frankjcasella.pixels.com

Image Reference Link: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/freedom-in-black-and-white-frank-j-casella.html


--

Subscribe by RSS https://fineartamerica.com/rss/blogs/frankjcasella

To receive blog posts like this one straight in your inbox, subscribe to the E-mail newsletter. Unsubscribe at any time.

A Father and Son go for a bike ride. But it is more than a simple bike ride, it is love in action. Because many children relate the love of their own father to that with the love of the Heavenly Father. In a culture that is presently literally feminizing men and manood, there seems to be a new call for the traditional role for a father and husband, as God desinged it, that impacts positively the family unit - It is the mother who does the nurturing, and the father who sets the mission or direction of the family, although these roles can overlap at times. There comes a time when every boy goes through the right of passage, when a boy becomes a man, and there is no better way for him to do this than with his father if possible. The presence of a good father and mother is important because our children learn more from our actions than from our words. Sadly, there are many children today who are looking for a father figure because their own father has left them, one way or another - All good men can be that person in their life, whether for a moment or a lifetime.

Black and White Street Photo Copyright 2008 Frank J. Casella - frankjcasella.pixels.com

Reference link: https://fineartamerica.com/featured/presence-frank-j-casella.html



--

Subscribe by RSS https://fineartamerica.com/rss/blogs/frankjcasella

To receive blog posts like this one straight in your inbox, subscribe to the E-mail newsletter. Unsubscribe at any time.