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Photo: Good Friday - Gritty Effect
https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/good-friday-gritty-frank-j-casella.html
Panoramic framing of Jesus on the Crucifix, with Palms.

"He submerged himself into our mess and it was our mess that killed him. Easter is primarily a celebration of forgiveness, of reconciliation and absolution. What moves us to our depths; what shocks us in our surprise is the realization that God the Father did not take vengeance on us for what we did to his Son but has decided to start over again with us in such a remarkable way of raising his Son to life again and wrapping us up with him in that Life. This indeed is what Easer is all about. Each year on the feast of the Resurrection we Christians climb to the roof tops, as it were, and shout out to the world a piece of Good news that has disturbed the status quo of the world ever since, namely, that our God in Jesus Christ is alive when evil men meant him dead. For this reason, Easter is more than an event. More than one Sunday in the calendar when we munch on chocolate bunnies and marshmallow chickadees. Easter is an attitude. Easter is liberation. Easter is Life, our life in the here and now and hereafter. Let this feast of feasts for Christians be the day to start over, to cross the chasm, to repair the broken, to rediscover God’s extraordinary grace transforming our most ordinary days." - Bishop Joseph N. Perry, Archdiocese of Chicago


Lessons From Lent

The purpose of Lent is to bring us back to God, to remove the distractions that become more important to us than God.

This past Lent of 2024 was most challenging, yet most rewarding. It is said that through our struggles is when we come closer to God and find ourselves.

At the start of Lent I had the apps and subscribed to the email prompts for my Lenten journey. And due to a health circumstance, I ended up doing none of it .. and this is what made it more rewarding.

A motto I follow for my photography is that simple things make big impressions. Well, this also applies to life itself!

So it was just me alone .... well .... with God.

And boy did He have some things to say.

Silence with God may feel like a waste of time .. not productive.

Yes it is. But not for God.

Because He then is productive as He has your attention.

This time was so silent that I actually noticed the church bells a few blocks from my house chiming every hour .. something I certainly took for granted. And the church music it played every evening.

I also learned how impatient that I didn't think that I was.

And how people and organizations I looked to for help are very independent and individualistic more than expected.

And how God's provisions helped me through people and organizations that I did not expect.

And how my photographs about simple moments are needed now more than ever, to do God's work to bring hope, joy, solitude, and love to a busy world divided and polarized.

But the lesson I learned from Lent the most is that in all the important things I have to do, the most important can be most simple.

Silence.



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Photo: Fence and morning sunlight shadows - Being Thankful - Copyright 2019 Frank J Casella - Click here to purchase. https://pixels.com/featured/being-thankful-frank-j-casella.html




Gratitude in the Face of Life's Obstacles
Life's journey is full of twists and turns, sometimes leading us down paths filled with barriers. But in these moments of struggle, there is a powerful choice we can make: to embrace an attitude of thankfulness. The most successful among us use their hardships as stepping stones to growth, surrounding themselves with kindred spirits who see opportunities in every setback.

Moreover, when we shift our focus from ourselves to a the love of God and approach our challenges with faith, we begin to see glimmers of progress each day. It's as if a ray of light is guiding us towards a brighter tomorrow.

In the face of adversity, we have a choice: to dwell on our troubles or to choose the path of gratitude. Let us always choose the latter, for it is in thankfulness that we find strength and hope.


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Photo: A bare altar with purple banner sets the tone at Holy Name Cathedral in Chicago, Illinois, where faithful Catholics visit throughout the days for prayer and observing for Holy Week - 'Holy Week' Copyright 2016 Frank J Casella - Click here to purchase. https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/holy-week-frank-j-casella.html



We all go through the dark moments in life. If you’re like me, you try to take the easy way out in moving towards the light. The thing is, often times until we go through the struggles we really don’t learn the full story.

For example, in times of struggles I often prayed for God to show me the way, but I never seemed to find any answers. Often times, after the fact, it is revealed to me that because I didn’t wait on God in His timing that I missed out on the blessing. Because I tried to avoid what I thought would experience pain or challenge.

Had I meant what I prayed for God to show the way, and not take it back as soon as I gave it to Him, because this is the easy way, then people and circumstances would have come into my path to show the way … and the rest of the story would be revealed.

I have lived through job layoffs, health setbacks, car accidents, people and their shortcomings, long-term unemployment, marriage issues, and the inevitable short on money when there is an ’emergency’ need, to name a few. In all of these I have learned that my viewpoint is not always God’s viewpoint. That I’m usually focused on my needs, and God is focused on using my circumstance to bring others into relationship with Himself, in addition to meeting my immediate need.

One other thing I’ve learned from all this is that, many times we struggle because we don’t know our life mission. That when we know our mission, some people call this your ‘why’, and we find a way to serve others through our mission, then we have less confusion in life. Because many times serving others without a mission we are fighting ourselves or getting in our own way. We should see others through our mission to know how to best serve them.

Broken relationships, for example, are like a vase that falls off the table and breaks into many small pieces. Depending how we look at it, if we try to put the vase (relationship) back together piece by piece seeking for God to show us through the struggle, instead of looking at serving self before the other person or giving up and taking the easy way out, that vase has the potential to become a beautiful mosaic.

You have to decide how important the struggle is to you, and grow through it, and how much you want God to complete the story in your life.

Jesus had to go onto the Cross to do the will of God. This struggle that He encountered was and is a part of His story. What struggles have you experienced that are a part of your story?

Reflect for a moment on how you can better allow God to radiate His love for a beautiful life from your past struggles and storms.

God’s will is that we depend on Him.



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Photo Descripton: It's important to have family and friends. Sometimes, though, our friends are more like family, and our family can be more like friends. It all depends on what we need from each... or give to. The people around us most influence how and where we go in life, and us with them. So, it's wise to pick and choose who we spend most our time with. Life is too short ....
- Click here to purchase. https://fineartamerica.com/featured/family-and-friends-frank-j-casella.html








Being that we are now in Lent, I am going to get a bit more spiritually deep than usual for this blog entry.

Lent is about turning back to God. About reconciliation and repenting.

The best way to help others to repent, is when we first do it ourselves.

The best definition of Sin that I have heard is: I want what I want.

What this means is that when we empty ourselves of sin and bad habits, we leave room for God to fill us up.

But when we work to help others to repent, and have not done so with our own lives, then we are working on our own agenda.

In other words, if you are not filled with Christ (or God), then you are full of yourself.

The fastest way to success, is when we replace bad habits with good habits.

Then when we are filled with Christ, we can then keep giving away as He keeps filling us up.

Then you are working on the purpose WHY God made you.

God does not need Lent, we do. Lent is not so much what we do for God, rather what God does for us when we let go and not always be in control.


" He who has a WHY can bear any How. "

~ Victor Frankl


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A man stands on the boardwalk absorbing the wetlands at the Homewood Izaak Walton Preserve in Illinois. What makes this moment more interesting to me is the juxtaposition of the cell tower in the background connecting the digital world at the same time he connects with nature in the real world. Wetlands Worship – Copyright 2024 Frank J Casella. Reference Link: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/wetlands-worship-frank-j-casella.html


One of the things I prefer to do with the smart phone camera is to make square format photographs. This is because you can naturally hold the phone vertical with one hand, while using the other hand to make adjustments for the exposure. When you hold the phone horizontal I find that you often need both hands to hold the phone as well as to hold it steady and move your fingers around the screen. And this is important because my Samsung Galaxy A13 makes large 50-megapixel images, similar to the Hasselblad or Mamiya medium format cameras.

The great environmental art photographer Ansel Adams preferred square format for easy cropping and no need to rotate a camera for vertical shots. He saw no loss of performance with a cropped 6×6 image compared to an uncropped 6×7.

Back when Instagram first came out I had a Fine Art Shop on MobilePrints by Fine Art America, where most of my images were square. The site no longer supports Instagram, and I no longer have an IG account, but I made those images with the iPhone 5s and then the iPod Touch. As you may know, the Square Art World Artist Group on Fine Art America is one that I curate, in addition to my own Square Format Collection. This collection includes visual stories, and some with words, on the lessons from life in a picture square.

What I like most about the square is it lets pictures breathe on my products. And, much like Ansel says, doesn’t cramp the top and bottom, as do horizontal products, or squeeze them in on left and right as do vertical products. On Greeting Cards you rotate the cards not the image, and it fits naturally on Shower Curtains, Phone Cases, Mugs, and Tote Bags as well. You never have to rotate the picture!


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Photo: Summer Breeze on the Chicago River - Black and White. Two people sharing a moment of Chicago urban scenic beauty from Michigan Avenue at the Chicago River. Copyright 2011 Frank J Casella. Reference Link: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/summer-on-the-chicago-river-black-and-white-frank-j-casella.html




My Process for Selecting the Perfect Photograph.

Every picture I take is infused with a deeper purpose – to spread positivity and the unyielding love of God to the world. From the smallest details of humanity to the grandest landscapes, I am constantly on the lookout for moments that evoke a sense of hope.

But how do I choose which photographs to share? It all starts with my spiritual connection. During my sacred moments of prayer, I am guided by a gentle nudging from God and the Holy Spirit. And when I follow through on these divine whispers, I am always amazed at the overwhelming response from others.

What may seem like an ordinary snapshot to me, is often a profound and impactful moment for someone else. After all, what is commonplace for me may be a new and wondrous sight for another. That is the beauty of photography – it has the power to turn the familiar into something extraordinary.

Amidst the vast collection of artists on Fine Art America / Pixels, I am drawn to those who use their platform to not only showcase their art, but to also share a piece of their soul. While others are solely focused on making sales and building their brand, I have adopted a different approach.

As I carefully select which photos to put up for sale, I am inspired by those artists who tirelessly strive for perfection in their work. Their unwavering determination to capture their vision is commendable, and any imperfection is immediately scrapped and replaced with a new and even better creation.

Thus, from this my process of selecting a photograph is more of a journey of discovery and connection.

As a photographer, my goal is to capture moments that reflect God’s beauty and wonder of the world through the lens of my camera. With every click, I strive to create an image that is not just aesthetically pleasing, but also meaningful and impactful.

Gone are the days of chasing perfection, for I have learned that the most breathtaking photographs often stem from spontaneity and imperfection. Rather than endlessly editing and perfecting, I trust in the divine timing and inspiration that guides me when to share my work.

Each artistic photograph tells a unique story, waiting patiently to be heard. I take the time to truly listen and let each image guide me towards its purpose and message.

This philosophy extends beyond the realm of photography and into our daily lives. We must not be so consumed with the small details that we miss out on the grander experiences life has to offer.

So next time you view a photograph, remember that there is more to it than meets the eye. It is a piece of someone’s journey, waiting to be unveiled and appreciated. As for me, I choose to let my photographs speak for themselves, with the hope that they will inspire and uplift others in their own journeys.

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Photo: Let There Be Peace on Earth – Color Photograph of Trees Silhouetted by the Sunrise, and the convergence of cloud formations in the blue sky – Copyright 2017 Frank J Casella. Come and save us, LORD our God; Let your face shine upon us, that we may be saved. Let there be peace on earth. Let it begin with me. Psalms 80:4 Reference Link: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/let-there-be-peace-on-earth-frank-j-casella.html


Discover Your Purpose: The Power of Your ‘Why’

Within every action and decision lies a deeper motivation, a guiding force that shapes your entire existence. This is your ‘why’ – the core of your being that drives everything you do, from the way you work to the way you live and treat others.

Renowned speaker and author Simon Sinek describes this concept as ‘the golden circle’, with your ‘why’ at the very center, surrounded by your ‘how’ and ‘what’. He explains, “People don’t buy what you do, they buy why you do it. And what you do simply proves what you believe.�

But finding your ‘why’ is not a one-size-fits-all process. Some may excel in understanding their ‘why’, while others are better at executing their ‘how’, and some specialize in their ‘what’. It’s about recognizing your strengths and crafting a life vision statement – your ‘why’ – and a life mission statement to achieve it.

Uncover Your WHY: The Key to Unlocking Your True Potential

No one conquers life alone. Without a clear understanding of your purpose in life, everything else seems meaningless. As my late father always said, “You must have a solid foundation or you’ll be easily swayed.�

My ‘why’ is constantly evolving, but at the core, it is driven by my desire to make a positive impact on the world and the people around me. I believe that by using my talents, passions, and experiences, I can contribute to creating a better and more just society.

I am driven by my curiosity and thirst for knowledge, always seeking to learn and grow as a person. I am also motivated by my loved ones, wanting to make them proud and inspire them to live their best lives. Ultimately, I live for the moments of connection, joy, and fulfillment that come from pursuing my passions and helping others.

My reasoning for living is to leave a positive mark on the world and leave it a better place than I found it. To do my part given to me by my ancestors. To help each other make it through life, and to get each other to Heaven.

Every action we take should be driven by our why. So ask yourself, what’s your why?

What is the fuel that propels you forward?

What is the ultimate purpose that gives your life meaning?

What is the driving force that keeps you going?



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About:

Frank J Casella - American. Photographer. Catholic. Co-founder. Living in Chicagoland - USA. Pictures speak in ways that words can not. Since I was a kid, I've been perfecting how to put the viewer where my subject is - I call this "Pictures People Listen To".

I've been a Documentary and Stock Photographer since 1988, and Independent Artist and Blogger on Fine Art America since 2013. Though, I've had a camera in my hand since I was a young boy. I produce and sell pictures of moments in time, and human interaction, that share hope and God's love in the world, through my Catholic Faith.

I'm also co-founder of Bishop Perry's Chicago Catholic Men's Forum, and Executive Director of Catholic Men Chicago Southland, since 2004. When you foster a Man in holiness, the positive adjustments he makes creates a upstanding man, husband, or father, and this impact can be felt for three generations.

I'm a product of Columbia College Chicago and, shortly after, my childhood dream became reality when I was assigned to photograph the ministry of the (Roman Catholic) Archbishop of Chicago - the late Joseph Cardinal Bernardin.

My artwork style is inspired by Norman Rockwell. I'm privileged to be nurtured by John H. White - Pulitzer Prize photojournalist.




Life Mission:

My life mission is to share hope and God's Love in the World. Jesus said, “No one who sets a hand to the plow and looks to what was left behind is fit for the kingdom of God.� ~ Luke 9:62



Testimonials:

"Frank Casella .... is like an Old World artist, creative yet meticulous, inspired yet careful, in awe of visual beauty yet not afraid to engage it through the lens of his camera. .... Frank Casella's work is what we mean when we say that photography can be an art".

-- Rev. Anthony J. Brankin, Chicago Priest and Sculpture


"Frank, I just wanted to Thank you again for coming to our photo club and your program on visual storytelling. I know we all got something from your presentation. It was a good idea the way you got us involved in your program. ....

.... For myself it was humbling to see how well you can design a moment to last forever. And your sense of getting the essence of the subject, that simple moment. I have a new respect for black and white images and I understand how it can enhance an image. Thank You again Frank it was a privilege for us to have you as a program presenter."

-- Tim McGrath, c/o Park Forest Photography Club


“Frank, Great Work and great job on your Website. Your work is thoughtful and good and you are an excellent Godly man and photographer�.

– The late James Klein Lenderink, Commercial Photographer



Stay Connected:

If you would like to see my latest updates and blog posts, sign up for my Official Artistic Website Email List for updates ... Direct to your Email box! Unsubscribe at any time.

Or you might like my SundayLetters - dispatch sharing my photos and thoughts about hope and God’s love in the world.

I am very intentional about my use of social media....


To that end, here are positive reasons why I post primarily on my own blog or mailing list:


1. Having a home

This site is a creative outlet for me and my works. When I want you to know something, I'm going to talk about it here, both with the mails I send you and with the blogs. This is where you'll be able to find me over time and space. This is my home.

For example, people in my old neighborhood used to just drop by to sit on the front porch and catch up; this site serves the same purpose for me. It's something we can depend on so we can always be in contact.


2. Internet citizenship

This is called the "web" because our sites all interconnect with links. Hyperlinking is what gives the Internet its richness. Following links has helped me learn so much, and give back. My own blog site lets me do that.



Online Channels

Official Artistic Website Email List - Latest updates, and related posts from this blog..

CMCSMen - A Blog to Nurture Catholic Men's Spirituality.

SundayLetters - A dispatch sharing my photos and thoughts about hope and God’s love in the world.



View My hometown photo project 'Home Sweet Homewood 1 Day' - moments in time photographs of Homewood, Illinois.

Read what I'm thinking about fjcasella.wordress.com

Follow me on brighteon.social

View all my artistic inspiration on GETTR


Come back here to browse my website - bookmark this page

Search My Stock Photos


Drop me an E-mail and - say hello. (Phone calls by appointment made via email.)







“As a photographer, the big secret is entering into the charisma with the person you have in front of you. If you don't feel it, you'll never do it well.� ~ ARTURO MARI, Vatican photographer

Thank you for visiting the blog for Frank J Casella Photographs. Pictures of moments in time, and human interaction, that share hope and God's love in the world.

To start reading from the top, click the 'VIEW ALL" button above. Enjoy!

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I am very intentional about how I (don't) use social media to directly promote my artwork, because I choose to live a balanced life in a noisy high tech world ( though you can find more about that here ).

I've become passionate about designing my life around focused work and protecting my time from distraction and devices. After all, it's the only way to get any photography done.

Follow along with my journey at the options below. Thanks and see you in your inbox soon!

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My blog posts are also shared to the Fine Art America blog section. This section provides an overview of all blogs that have been posted by Fine Art America artists and galleries.

When we are able to be silent and listen to our own thoughts and emotions, we can also extend that understanding and compassion to others. In our fast-paced world, we often overlook the importance of silence and how it can bring about inner peace and empathy. It allows us to reflect on our actions and connect with our surroundings in a more meaningful way. Embracing silence can also bring a sense of gratitude for the little things in life that we often take for granted. So, let us make more time for silence in our lives and embrace the beauty it brings.

Photo: A snowy scene down a neighborhood street, in my home town of Homewood, Il., where the paw prints from a dog follow the trees off the beaten path of human footprints on the sidewalk. Copyright 2014 Frank J Casella. Reference Link: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/1-pet-prints-in-the-snow-color-frank-j-casella.html

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It is impossible to fully comprehend the vastness of God's beauty in nature in just one day. It's a question that often arises , and how much do we take this for granted? It's like being presented with a feast but then not eating. From the vibrant colors of a sunrise to the intricate details of a flower, every aspect of nature reflects the perfection and wonder of our creator. As we take in the beauty of a clear blue sky, the majesty of a mountain range, and the peacefulness of a flowing river, we are constantly reminded of God's goodness and love. Even in the smallest of creatures, we can see the fingerprints of God's creativity and care. Each day, we are presented with a new opportunity to witness and appreciate the boundless beauty of God's creation, and yet, there will always be more to discover and marvel at in the days to come. Put down your phone and go for a walk.

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Photo: Mercy - A single birdhouse is surrounded by the beauty of soft blue snowy trees. Mercy is the first attribute of God. God does not want anyone to be lost. His mercy is infinitely greater than our sins. Copyright 2018 Frank J Casella. Reference Link: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/mercy-frank-j-casella.html

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Priorities

I meet many busy people every year who have no priority list.

As busy people in a culture overloaded with information and distractions, isn’t it becoming more and more difficult to find time just to think?

I would like to invite you to join me to return back to the basics, and ask ourselves what is really important to me, and who is really important to me.

This challenges us to look at the priority in our lives.

For me, Jesus is number one priority. He tells us to prepare the way if our lives are not what they should be, and to do something about that.

Matthew 22:37-38 clearly explains: “Jesus said to him, ‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. “

This is also the greatest and the first (of the Ten) Commandment(s).

To do this we make time for silence, to spend time in the wilderness. Many people I tlak to without a priority list seem to be afraid of this silence. But, did you know our true thoughts and answers are often suppressed deep inside us, crowded out by all the noise in our lives.

We need quiet time to seek if we have placed success ahead of personal relationships, and with God. Reflection provides us an opportunity to change it.

Where our treasure is there is where our hearts will be. We always make time for what we love. To find this, we need to clear the clutter, the things that distract us from where to put our energy.

In the digital world this may be to remove apps or news sources that busy us or cause confusion. What goes into our brains is what comes out of our mouths. In the real world, we seek what or who are the people or things that distract us from being our best selves. What is it that we treasure the most?

When it comes to money and possessions, the best way to find what you treasure is to look in your bank account and see where most of your money goes. You may be surprised it’s not what you think. For me, it is to seek how are the funds being used to help others and make the world a better place, while not just meeting my needs and all my wants or comforts.

People who are truly happy create value in their own lives, and then in the lives of others.

Priorities are a constant way to remind us of our purpose, and to take inventory of our lives to create value.


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Photo: Fleeting moment. A moment in time on the street in the Loop of the City of Chicago. Copyright 2012 Frank J Casella.
Reference Link: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/train-bike-car-bus-walk-frank-j-casella.html


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Most of my art photographs have a very strong composition towards lines and patterns. This is because it was ingrained in me from may earliest days. I was raised in a family business, my Mom made custom drapries, and from the time I was a toddler in my play-pen there was often swatches of fabric for me to play with.

As I got older (though out of the play-pen) I watched mom cut drapery fabric so the pattern would line up as she sewed together the panels for the drapes. Some of the fabric was very expensive, so she had to make sure the measurements where correct, as there was no second chances without having the expense of replacing the fabric.

This photograph – America Heartland Winter Beauty – is one of many examples for my strong sense of lines and patterns. Although it seems to be a simple landscape photograph, the elements that attract my eye most are the frame-in-the-frame composition, and the leading lines, both lead the viewers eyes to the subject .. here it is the house.

The power lines you might think are a distraction to a perfect picture, yet to me they provide a sort of positive tension to balance the composition, with the color of the garage on the right opposite the open/expanse of the backyard on the left – without these opposite elememts this would be an entirely different picture.

Finally, the colors: The red house, the blue sky, and the white snow. All primary colors, but I especially love the power of the color red in a photograph. Patterns in photography are areas where elements repeat, and are a key compositional element–one with the potential to get you truly stunning photos.

And the importance of line, shape and form in photography, representing a three-dimensional world in a two-dimensional image is not an easy task. The thing about line, shape and form is that they help you to add depth to your image.

Likewise, for those of us who believe … In God, all can come to know that the sin, the coldness, the indifference, the despair, and the doubt of our lives are overcome by God’s taking on our human nature and leading us to new life. … by the simple lives of faith they lead. Through the ordinary patterns of our life, the Holy Spirit brings about conversion and a new life in Christ.




Photo: America Heartland Winter Beauty – Color Art Photograph Copyright 2021 Frank J Casella. The beauty after a major snowstorm on a neighborhood street in America’s Hearland. Picture made in my hometown of Homewood, Illinois. Note: This image was given an effect to soften details and give vibrancy to the colors.
Reference Link: https://pixels.com/featured/america-heartland-winter-beauty-frank-j-casella.html


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One of the things that I take for granted with my photographs is the composition and construction of the image elements. It’s something that I focused on while learning photography as a kid, and my technique was pulled together in college. I am surprised how there is a very talented artist on Fine Art America who calls me the ‘composition master’ in his comments on my pictures.

Composition in photography is about the positioning and interaction of elements within the frame. It determines the visual structure and perception of an image. To create a balanced composition, one can use the rule of thirds, placing the subject in the left or right third of the image. Negative space can also be used strategically, and adjusting saturation can enhance visual impact. It is important to identify elements that disrupt the balance in a photograph.

If you have followed my photography over the years, then you’ve seen my transition from people pictures towards nature, but still concentrating on the spirituality message. Because the construction of a subject in a photograph can tell us the story about our lives. As Fr. Greg says (who is the Rector at Holy Name Cathedral in Chicago), our lives are always under construction. Our lives are messy, and at different times we can live as a meaningful specific, or a wandering generality.

God is very detailed in the construction of nature and how it’s beauty inspires us and causes the earth to evolve, so too with the details of how He created each one of us as individual as the other. Thus, I strive to create a photograph with such intention and detail, through composition and construction, in the same way that I live my life.

For example, many people who meet me for the first time say how opinionated I am, and how I’m a good listener. And this is my aim for you see in my imagery. To tell a visual story by listening to the moments in time, and feeling the light, and present it in a way that makes it relevant to our present day culture.



Photo: Changing Seasons In The Prairie - Lomography. Made at the Homewood Izaak Walton Preserve in Illinois. Copyright 2023 Frank J Casella.
Reference Link: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/changing-seasons-in-the-prairie-lomography-frank-j-casella.html


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When our heart is filled with anger, we cut ourselves off from the Holy Spirit, represented here by an impassable barrier. Forgiveness is key. Jesus taught us how to pray in The Sermon On The Mount and in His model prayer, He stated that, if we want to be forgiven for our trespasses or sins, then we have to be willing to forgive those who trespass against us. Photo: Anger – Nature Photograph Copyright 2019 Frank J Casella. https://pixels.com/featured/anger-frank-j-casella.html

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Anger and Forgiveness

It is important that we display artwork in our home or at our place of work that speak to us and, not only inspires but, also gives us joy, rather than things that provoke anger. When we keep filling our minds with goodness and hope, we then share it with others.

When it comes to the topic of anger, I initially felt overwhelmed and considered giving up. Anger is both simple and complex, with countless aspects to explore.

Instead of delving into all those aspects, I want to share what anger means to me personally. Whenever I find myself getting angry, my immediate response is to ask who or what requires my forgiveness. Allow me to elaborate.

A spiritual director once shared an insightful perspective with me: anger usually arises when things don’t go our way or when we witness injustices that we can’t control. For instance, when my wife and I over the years have been experiencing delays in a house project, which has caused some frustration. I also experience anger when my work doesn’t yield the desired results or expectations, especially when others are relying on me.

To overcome these challenges, I have found that forgiveness is crucial. I first forgive the things that aren’t working out, and then I actively seek where God is present in these situations. More often than not, it becomes apparent that God has a better plan, and He is simply waiting for me to align with His work. Anger happens when I refuse to let go and let God, or I give it to God and then take it back.

So, when angry with others, it is often best to offer forgiveness than to ask for apology. In other words, choose to respond rather than to react.

This process can be difficult at times, as it requires prayer, patience, and discernment with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. As Fulton Sheen aptly stated, “the Holy Spirit acts as an artist, painting a vivid picture of the vision God has for us.“

So, the next time anger strikes, I hope my words encourage you to take a moment, pause, and respond with forgiveness instead of simply reacting with anger.


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I love this moment … canoes arranged like a sculpture, and juxtaposed with the cloud pattern in the sky. I also love the pinch of humanity, with the person walking on the path in the background. In the aftermath of a huge snow storm, this is just a simple piece of art to illustrate the beauty of a winterfold scene and, as this picture shows, there is a calm to every storm. Canoes are meant for water, and here they have a purpose and place in the snow. Canoes in the Snow – Copyright 2011 Frank J Casella All Rights Reserved (revised 2022).

Photo: Canoes In The Snow - https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/canoes-in-the-snow-frank-j-casella.html

High School Days

I was reminded of this photograph made a the local high school, where my wife and I, as well as our children, are alums, because a present student asked me about how the school has changed over the years since I attended there and the impact it has made on the community.

The short answer to share with you is, that the purpose of a high school I think is to help a student determine their goals and direction as they discern how their life will make a difference in the world. As the late Zig Ziglar says, “the definition of success is when opportunity meets preparation�. A high school can provide resources to the masses that would be difficult for each household to provide on their own.

I went to this school before the internet, which seems to have helped me since to become a lot more smart and knowledgeable over the years. So the job of a high school today is to fill in the gaps that the internet can’t provide, like experiences of mentoring with sills and relationships. Many times though today schools also influence with social political ideals instead of just sticking to their true purpose of education.

Too, over the years I believe many students today come from a one-parent family (not a broken family, as there is a difference), where in my day it was mostly two parent families. This presents a different demographic, as it seems teachers have more of a co-parent roll in the students life. For example, when our children went to the school we kept reminding the teachers that we are their parents, and to check in with us.

However, we are fortunate to have this high school in the community, as it has many programs for the arts and vocations to prepare students well for college or simply entering the professional world. That is one thing over the past sixty years that has not change, and only improved. I have personally benefited from this!

As the red canoe in this photograph seems out of place from the others scattered along the edge of the pond, so too can we feel out of place during our high school day’s when looking for some sort of direction. And after graduation most of us leave the area for college, sometimes never to come back to live there. This to me is the lasting impact a high school has on its community.


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During the tranquil moments of autumn, basking in the gentle rays of the golden hour, we find solace in bidding farewell to a serene Sunday. Although this particular photograph captures the essence of late fall, it will be a bit of time before we reach that time of year, as typically here in Chicagoland towards the end of October is when the fall foliage ignites the landscape with a vibrant tapestry of colors. Among my vast collection of Fall and Autumn, this image stands out as a personal favorite. The interplay of the sunlight illuminating the hues, combined with the artistry displayed in the cloud formations, reminds us of the incomparable beauty created by God’s paint brush. So, take a moment to savor and appreciate this image, a small glimpse into the enchanting allure of the fall season.

— Frank J Casella

Photo: A peaceful moment of autumn, in the golden hour light, and a nice way to end a Sunday. Copyright 2021 Frank J Casella.
Sunday In The Autumn Woods





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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




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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.

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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.



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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.



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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

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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



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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

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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
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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




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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



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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


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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



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Sometimes, it is important to seek for grace though the darkness, before we can experience elegance from the Light. Photo: Light and Wood Monochrome – Copyright 2018 Frank J Casella.


Reference Link: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/light-and-wood-monochrome-frank-j-casella.html



"The start of strife is like the opening of a dam; check a quarrel before it bursts forth!"

Proverbs 17:14

The arguer insist on his own way.

A conflict resolver looks for a resolution instead of trying to win an argument.

Love means looking out for the other persons interest.

Unresolved conflicts stand as barriers to unity, whether it be friendships, co-workers, politics, or a marriage, etc.

If we don’t find a way to meet in the middle, or what we do agree on, we become enemies instead of teammates.

So, the key is to stop trying to win an argument, and start trying to understand each other.

"Do nothing out of selfishness or out of vainglory; rather, humbly regard others as more important than yourselves, each looking out not for his own interests, but [ also ] everyone for those of others."

Philippians 2: 3-4




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Photo: Happy Female Red Winged Blackbird in the Wetlands,from the pink flowers to the rippled water by the ducks, all drenched in the golden hour sunlight. The elements of God's creation in nature at work. - Made at the Homewood Izaak Walton Preserve in Illinois - USA. Copyright 2022 Frank J Casella - frankjcasella.pixels.com

This says it better than I ever could:

"God talks to human beings through many vectors: wise people, organized religion, the Great Books of religions, through art, music and poetry. But nowhere with such detail, and grace and joy, as through creation. When we destroy nature, we diminish our capacity to sense the divine."

-- Robert F Kennedy, Jr.


Thanks for reading,

Talk with you again soon,

Frank J Casella, Artistic Photographer
Blogger on Fine Art America

Reference Link: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/happy-bird-in-the-wetlands-frank-j-casella.html


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Photo: 'Groups of Flowers' - It is interesting to me how flowers grow in groups. Sometimes different kinds, and other times blooming before the others. Such is the case of life itself ... We all need each other to make it in the world, and this is one reason why belonging to groups of interest is important in life.

Reference Link: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/groups-of-flowers-frank-j-casella.html

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Friends,

Sharing other artists works is something important to me, because doing it simply warms my heart. Recently another artist on Fine Art America, who was the administrator / curator for the Stained Glass Artwork Group and The American Flag group, decided to give them up after many years .. and gave them to me .... which is a total surprise.

The key I think to these artist groups is that collectors learn over time the curators who pick the best new artwork before it gets ranked by the website system, and these collectors visit those groups based on the subject or theme of their interests. Likewise, artists know what groups to join and share their works based on who the curator is .. and this is why it was a total surprise for me to be handed these prestegious groups!

Stained glass artwork can be very uplifting, as it illustrates moments in time or stories about our lives and history. Likewise, the American flag unites us as American's. You can have many other flags for things that you admire, but the American flag is the One that is like a box of crayons - there are many different colors all together in the same box.

In addition, I also share my photographs on MeWe Social, and recently the owner of the Pentax group there decided to give it up and, short of the long, it was also handed to me. This goes hand-in-hand on Fine Art America, because I also curate the Pentax and Ricoh Group there. Below is a brief explainer about the features of these groups.

Here are the links to the groups:

On Fine Art America:

STAINED GLASS ARTWORK
This group welcomes all media and pictures of real Stained Glass. As a material stained glass is glass that has been coloured by adding metallic salts during its manufacture.

THE AMERICAN FLAG
This group welcomes all media and pictures of The American Flag. Nicknames for the flag include the 'Stars and Stripes', 'Old Glory' and 'The Star-Spangled Banner'


On MeWe: The Pentax Group




Group Features:

On Fine Art America: Participate in Groups
Join one of our 5,000+ member-moderated groups or create your own.

We have groups dedicated to art, photography, graphic design, print-on-demand technologies, and the ever-present topic of 'how to sell online'.

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On MeWe: Why MeWe Groups?
MeWe is the Next-Gen Social Network for groups. No censorship, spying, or targeted 3rd-party ads. Groups can have up to 12 admins, and can customize member levels of participation.

Plus, 100% of your posts will reach 100% of your members since there are no algorithms or bots. MeWe is the social network to serve your community.

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Happy Easter 2023 to you all !! There is no better way for me to explain this day other than this:

"He is risen." The resurrection of Christ is a pledge of our own resurrection. It is the foundation upon which our faith rests. It is the guarantee of our redemption and God's assurance that our sins are forgiven and that we are called to eternal life. "This is the day which the Lord hath made; let us be glad and rejoice therein. Give praise to the Lord, for He is good, for His mercy endures forever. Alleluia."

—Excerpted from The Light of the World by Benedict Baur, O.S.B.


Let us pray ..







O God, who on this day,

through your Only Begotten Son,

have conquered death

and unlocked for us the path to eternity,

grant, we pray, that we who keep

the solemnity of the Lord's Resurrection

may, through the renewal brought by your Spirit,

rise up in the light of life.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,

who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,

one God, for ever and ever.

Amen.


Photo: 'Easter Sunday Silence' - Square Tulip Flowers Sunrise - Copyright 2019 Frank J Casella
https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/easter-sunday-silence-frank-j-casella.html



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A bare altar with purple banner sets the tone at Holy Name Cathedral in Chicago, Illinois, where faithful Catholics visit throughout the days for prayer and observing for Holy Week. Copyright 2016 Frank J Casella -frankjcasella.pixels.com


Triduum --

The summit of the Liturgical Year is the Easter Triduum—from the evening of Holy Thursday to the evening of Easter Sunday. Though chronologically three days, they are liturgically one day unfolding for us the unity of Christ's Paschal Mystery.

The single celebration of the Triduum marks the end of the Lenten season, and leads to the Mass of the Resurrection of the Lord at the Easter Vigil.

The liturgical services that take place during the Triduum are:

Mass of the Lord's Supper

Good Friday of the Lord's Passion

Mass of the Resurrection of the Lord

Click For More Information


Photo Reference Link https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/easter-triduum-frank-j-casella.html



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The spring season can often be a time of great excitement, with people wanting to get out and enjoy the weather. But for some, the season can also be very hectic, with them feeling restless and distracted. This is commonly referred to as 'spring fever'.

After a long, cold winter, many of us are anxious for the warmer weather and flowers. But springtime can sometimes feel more like winter.

One way to combat this restless feeling is through the power of art. Engaging in creative activities like painting, drawing, or even just visiting a museum can help to channel that restless energy into something productive and fulfilling.

In particular, art can help promote creativity, self-expression, and mental well-being. This is due to the fact that art allows us to explore and express our unique thoughts and emotions, which can help us to process and express difficult emotions. In addition, engaging in art can help us find personal meaning and connect with others.

When we take the time to appreciate the world around us, we can reduce the amount of stress and anxiety in our lives. Additionally, art can help improve mood and cognitive function. By spending time exploring and enjoying art, we are investing in our own mental well-being and enhancing our quality of life.

If you're looking to engage with fine art in a way that's more convenient for you, you can do so online. As the weather warms up, there are many art shows and art fairs. However, if you can't get to them, you can also engage with fine art online. This way, you can see and purchase the artworks even if you're not near a show or fair.

The great thing about engaging with fine art online is that you can see the art and make your own assessments without having to leave your home. Many museums and galleries offer free online exhibitions, you can also browse independent artists, artist groups, online art contest, and businesses and brands, for the best of the best in curated arwork.

If you're not up for making the trek to a show, there's no need to miss out on some of the best art in the world.



Photo: Threshold - Monochrome Tulip Artistic Photography Copyright 2008 Frank J Casella
Reference link: https://fineartamerica.com/featured/threshold-monochrome-frank-j-casella.html



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I'm afraid that I have both sad and joyful news. First the sad, my longtime friend James Wright passed away (way too young) after a long illness. The joyful, Jim is out of misery and with the Lord, and leaves behind a life of making a positive difference in a corner of the world.

This artwork of him driving the old fire car is a perfect illustration of the substance of his life, I think. And this is why I tried to give this photograph the feel of a Rockwell painting. Jim had several interests; the fire service, the church, and Homewood, Illinois our hometown where his interests revolved around.

Jim wrote exhaustive history books and articles about these interests of his, and I helped to provide the pictures for them that I could. He could afford the time and expense of this because he worked in the insurance industry and had no wife or kids. A very humble man who always got down to the brass tacks in a polite way.

Actually, Jim was in the Fire Cadet program with my older brother, and I hung around the firehouse while waiting to become of age. He worked there over the summer months while in college and I was in high school, and that is how we became friends. Jim is one of the guy's around the firehouse who coined calling me 'knarf' - wich is Frank spelled in reverse.

He always said hello to everyone, and I can't recall anyone saying a bad thing about him. Jim was very active in developing the Homewood Historical Society, and we now know much more about this town because of Jim's tireless research. Even at our Catholic parish when the school closed, Jim interested in recording all the history he may have missed before it was passed on to the archdiocese archives.

One memory as he was recently updating his book about the Homewood Fire Department, I noticed how much Jim was trying to get it done as quickly and with quality as possible, more than usual as in the past. You could tell he knew this might be the last time.

I kept asking Jim when he might run for Mayor, as others have, and he wouldn't think of it as he loved to be in the background of things. And that is where he excelled, to be honest with you. Jim had memorabilia in his home, but I think this fire chief car was at the top of the list. Because his usual smile was always beaming with happiness.

There are many people every day who come and go through this world, we don't always know who they are because they just do their thing, but we take for granted the things they did to make our world a better place to live. This is God's purpose for our lives. Many people knew Jim because of his writings, but he didn't do it for this reason, it was to give away the gifts that God has given him and to put together the pieces of the puzzle of our lives.

Rest in Peace Jim.

Lord, James is gone now from this earthly dwelling,
and has left behind those who mourn his absence.
Grant that we may hold his memory dear,
never bitter for what we have lost
nor in regret for the past,
but always in hope of the eternal Kingdom
where you will bring us together again.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.


Photo: Antique Fire Chief Car - An antique Fire Chief Car rides the parade route in Midwest America, providing young and old a glimpse of an era of days gone by - Copyright 2008 Frank J Casella.

https://fineartamerica.com/featured/antique-fire-chief-car-frank-j-casella.html


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The Silence Of God

Each sunset is different. As it goes down it will never return. It will never be the same.

I am trying something different for this blog post, below, by only posting photographs with no title or caption, just let the silence of the picture happen.

Click on each image for more information or to purchase.

Enjoy!

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With sunsets the light and the earth is a bit more warm, compared to sunrises, thus each illustrates the 'personality' and love of God in the world. To bring us beauty and through other forms of weather to know the difference.

Make some time soon to watch a sunset, and then notice the stages of the changing colors of light and the clouds, the movement of shadows and silhouettes, and let the silence of God speak to you.



Thanks for viewing,

Talk with you again next time.

Frank J Casella



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Photo: Early morning crowd at the Saturday Farmers Market at Martin Square, Downtown Homewood, Illinois. I always love how the power of the color red works in the story telling of a photograph, also how that little baby is watching all the activities. 'Farmers Market Produce' - Copyright 2017 Frank J Casella. https://fineartamerica.com/featured/farmers-market-produce-frank-j-casella.html




Price, Cost And Value


"The price of excellence is discipline. The cost of mediocrity is disappointment."

- William Arthur Ward


"The price of inaction is far greater than the cost of making a mistake."

- Meister Eckhart


"Freedom has cost too much blood and agony to be relinquished at the cheap price of rhetoric."

- Thomas Sowell


"The price of light is less than the cost of darkness."

- Arthur Nielsen


“Long ago, Ben Graham taught me that ‘Price is what you pay; value is what you get.’ Whether we’re talking about socks or stocks, I like buying quality merchandise when it is marked down.�

- Warren Buffett



I've updated my prices for 2023, and I've done this with you in mind Though it may now cost you less, this does not affect the value of its quality. I've also had to come to terms with price, cost and value.

Because relative value is the valuing how much the artwork is worth by comparing it with its competitors.

For example, while a famous painting may sell for millions of dollars at an auction, the cost of creating that painting is meaningless relative to the sale price. The value and price are being derived from the prestige of the artist, as well as other emotional aspects that you the buyer may connect with.

In other words, understanding the value of quality is essential. In general, people don't care as much about price as they do about quality.

On Fine Art America from time to time, in the duscussion forum, the question comes up what to do with an artist's account after their death. Many artists seem to have the idea their art will keep selling after death like it was when they were living. This is true for a select few, but unless the majority (of them) develop word of mouth and / or teach someone how to market their work, it won't happen.

Growing up in a family business my mom and dad showed me how there is a difference between being a freelancer and being an entrepreneur. The freelancers work ends when they are done with it, the entrepreneur builds a business to continue after they are done. (Thus when mom died we closed the business because she was the business .. people always wanted to talk to her)

Likewise there is a difference between a big box store and a farmers market: The big box store sells many different products under one roof, the farmers market is many different businesses under one 'umbrella'.

Some people call Fine Art America the Amazon or Walmart of Art online. I tend to think of FAA as the farmers market of Art online. There is a movement now where people are not shopping the big box stores and instead shopping local stores based on product and need.

This because the mostly larger retailers now allow something critically human to be getting lost: the spirit of our democracy and the backbone of our privacy. You know who they are, and how they're treating us as commodities. They somehow mistake people signing up to use their services, or buying from their stores, as a welcome invitation to target, track, spy, and sell our information to advertisers and the government., as well these companies and organizations are funding the attack on traditional American values, instead of simply serving the customer.

This is one of the reasons you see Amazon and WalMart closing stores or loading off empoyees. With the present economy I tend to think the farmers market has a better leverage to be in business because of lower overhead, and they ususally better understand how important simply serving all customers is to their business. Likewise, Fine Art America, unlike other Print On Demand sites, does not have investers or a board of directors and thus the owner can make quick adjustments (like the farmers market) as needed.

This too is why my artist website is powered by FAA. There are many artists on FAA who can beat me on price but nobody beats me on cost. Price is a one time thing, cost is a lifetime thing.

The value of my art photography is in the eye of the beholder. I don't want you so much to own my artwork because it is a Casella photograph, rather I want you to feel an emotional connection that is priceless to you.

I invite you to view my collection of colorful uplifting photographs and gifts, and bring new light and life to your home or workplace and those you love. My Online Portfolio address is - https://frankjcasella.crevado.com - and a larger collection can be found on my website at - https://frankjcasella.pixels.com

Order any size print - on canvas, paper, wood, metal, or acrylic - for all size spaces and budgets, plus phone cases, pillows, tote bags, greeting cards and more! These photos are quality printed in partnership with pixels.com (a Fine Art America company) and will be shipped directly to you from them.

Why?

Because many people who purchase my photographs say how much it makes them smile.


"Your smile doesn’t change them, it changes YOU. And THAT’s what changes them. "

~ Bob Burg



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Friend’s,

This photograph is from my personal project:

Home Sweet Homewood 1 Day

Moments In Time Photographs of Homewood, Illinois,

— my home town.

I share with you each new post from this project a few times throughout the year.

Enjoy!

— Frank

Bookmark this photo project ‘Home Sweet Homewood 1 Day’ – at this short link: fjc.tiny.us/h1d

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Every community has its unique elements, what I call gems, and this wetlands of the Homewood Izaak Walton Preserve are no exception. There are certain times throughout the year, and times each day in fact, that these elements just pop for your eyes to behold.

Usually I reserve this project for pictures of people on the street, or simple moments from within the community were I grew up, however, this photograph I think adds wonderfully to the others. Becasue I always love the power of the color red in a photograph, and how this blends well with the other colors in this scene.

Blending in can be a tricky thing for us to do in society with our own lives. Especailly when we are made aware of our own unique elements that possess a power like the color red. I think we have to look for how the ‘Light’ illuminates others around us, and highlights how we can work together, to make the world a better place and a beauty to behold this side of Heaven.

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

Frank

Reference Link: https://fineartamerica.com/featured/red-in-the-wetlands-preserve-frank-j-casella.html



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There are many artist colleagues of mine who create beautiful images that need no words. Yet when you only look at the captions to their works, the words usually need the images to be complete - it is said a picture is worth a thousand words.

In other words, many times the captions to my pictures are, in my mind, for the internet crawlers / bots to read. A good picture should posses three-second-impact to be effective. A picture that is a work of Art should move you with emotion that needs no words, based on your own life experiences - and the words might be used later only to add better context.

For those of you who are new to this blog email list (Welcome!), the mission for my pictures is to share moments in time, and human interaction, that share hope, and God's love in the world - In short I let the picture tell the story. My imagery over the years has progressed from fire service pictures, portraits and weddings, photojournalism, documentary, people and street pictures, artistic wall art, and a few others in-between.

My present artistic concentration is with the elements of nature and urban documentary. For 2023 my goal is to share uplifting and inspiring photographs that are relatable and affordable to the masses. So as many walls and surfaces as possible have (one of) my photographs. Not so much to feed my ego or to make my works a Brand, rather to speak to our hurting and war-torn world in ways that words cannot.

Our digital lives are saturated with images and information, videos and podcasts, we are in an age of being educated and informed by headlines and sound bytes rather than spend time learning the full story. There are many artists works that I admire, as I have said, and who inspire me, and for this reason I also plan to share those that cross my path on Mastodon Social and through my website email list.

Because the best way I think to make a positive difference in the world - visually - is like the motto for this Pixels / FAA website that sells our words: Independent. Together. People need pictures - through works of Art - that are examples of goodness and hope. Many people have let me know how much my pictures mean to them, and what they say to them more than the words I have used to caption them, and some even go ahead and buy them.

Either way is fine with me, that is what it's there for. Yet, you may not know that my pictures are really a by-product of my work with the Catholic apostolate that I co-founded, and if you prefer to support that instead of investing in my pictures, look here. When you donate, or buy wall art and more with my pictures, you and I work together to make a positive difference in the world.

Pictures need no words, yet words need pictures. It used to be this way too, I understand, back in the stone ages as a form of communication? The digital world is doing the same thing today. There has been more pictures made since the iPhone camera has been introduced, than all the pictures in the history of photography. Take a moment to let that sink into your thinking.



Thanks for reading. Talk with you again real soon,

Frank

Picture Reference: Morning Light Flowers And Trees https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/morning-light-flowers-and-trees-frank-j-casella.html


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Here are the top five most popular posts for 2022 as a blogger on Fine Art America. By popular, I mean a combination of most blog views and email list stats (I only get stats to be sure the mails are read).

The mission of my blogging, and photographs, is to share artistic pictures and thoughts of (my) hope, and God's love in the world.







Here are the top five in order of post date:

Life Is A Work In Progress

Listen To The Street

Weathered And Worn

Thank Someone

Keep Doing Good Things

In conclusion, I hope you will see by these topics of the most popular reflects how people resonate with my mission, and fosters examples of hope and God's love in the world.

Thanks for reading. Talk with you again real soon,

Frank




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Photo: ' Sunrise on the Winter Pine ' - A beautiful backyard pine tree, covered with fresh snow, absorbs the winter sunlight. Copyright Frank J. Casella All Rights Reserved.



-- Keep Doing Good Things --


Something I like about fresh snow is how it illuminates the sunlight.

The sunlight, especially in the morning, illustrates for me the warmth and blessing of God on his creation.

And in order to see the beauty of the sunlight, we have to see the shadows behind it.

The interplay of both is what I think makes this beauty interesting ... different from day to day .. such as with our own lives.

Life is messy and full of struggles and shortcomings. Our lives and culture are full of fault-finding.

But there is hope, if we accept it: Mercy.




" Mercy is the first attribute of God. God does not want anyone to be lost. His mercy is infinitely greater than our sins "

-- Pope Francis


Saint Thomas Aquinas defines God's Mercy as the eternal perfection of the Creator, Redeemer and Sanctifier in His relation to people.

Through Mercy, God brings creatures out of poverty and replenishes their shortcomings.

Jesus tells us the next step, “ wisdom is vindicated by her works. �

In other words, let the good things you’re doing do the talking.

Keep your eyes on God. And keep doing the good that God is calling you to do.

We are now in the season of Advent ... waiting for Christmas.

This waiting period is a time to prepare, by removing the clutter in our lives, known as sin, and to better practice what we believe.

And not to disbelieve because our expectations have not been met.

Like a pine tree is changed by the beauty of the fresh snow, so too can we be changed by Mercy.

A blessed Advent, and a Merry Christmas to you!

Frank




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Photo: A Sacred Heart of Jesus Statue in a church hallway, silhouetted by window light. ' In All Circumstances, Give Thanks ' - Copyright 2017 Frank J Casella

"In all circumstances, give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus." - 1 Thes. 5:18


- Thank Someone -

When I sit in the presence of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and give thanks for life and every breath I take, I realize how much it is more about the big picture of things and less about me.

I am grateful for what I have .... and what I don't have. I think the greatest gift a person can give another is unconditional love, which I have always had from my parents, siblings, extended family, close friends, and of course, and my wife who is the most wonderful person, Debbie.

I’ve never seen such divisions and angry disagreements between people as we have today. There are reasons for tensions everywhere. So it seems that love and trust work best between each person in front of you. If we disagree, that is okay, and to accept our feelings and positions as valid for each other without judgment. So I will do my best to understand how and why you feel as you do. With the hope that you will do the same for me.

And this is why it is important to give back at Thanksgiving. As it is said best by singer Amy Grant below


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"Life lessons are learned in bits and pieces over time. And like a puzzle that slowly comes together, we eventually become who we are. ....

When you give something, you become a part of something bigger than yourself. And both the person who’s giving and the person who’s receiving feel equally blessed. That’s a beautiful cycle if you ask me. One that’s worth celebrating all year. ....

Thanksgiving Day is a good day to recommit our energies to giving thanks and just giving."

~ Amy Grant - ' Giving Back at Thanksgiving '


Music Video: Thank Someone - In her duet with John Hiatt, Amy expresses the need for gratitude. As families and loved ones get together to celebrate, we're reminded to reward support and kindness with thanksgiving, not to take it for granted.

Happy Thanksgiving Day!

Thank you for your engagement with my artwork, and for being my customer,

Frank


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Photo: First Snow After Autumn - Square - Golden leaves from the last signs of Autumn pop against the white from the first snow of Winter - Color Art Landscape Photograph - Copyright 2015 Frank J Casella.



- I Hope To Make You Smile -


The reason that I am an artistic photographer, is because I believe that in life people need imagery, through works of Art, that are positive examples (sometimes with human interaction) of goodness, hope, and the Love of God in the world.

In our present war-torn world and divisive culuture, as well as the added busyness of the Christmas holiday season, simple moments in time can create lasting impressions or even make you smile.

More people are uplifed by the beauty of nature as it evolves, which is God's creation and love for His world.

Once again this year, I will be sending out a daily email from Thanksgiving Day through New Years Day.

But this time I will dust off my my WordPress blog, so enter your address in the sign up form to be sure you are on the list, or not.

These mails will be a quick read with an inspirational picture and caption, as well as any holiday promotion of the day when available, sent on Monday through Saturday each week (for seven weeks).

Follow the blog here with your email address, by RSS, or with your WP account if you have one, and then you will be sure to get each new daily post with simple uplifting inspiration!

Thank you for your interest in my artistic photographs, for being my customer, and for joining with me together on this visual journey.

I hope to make you smile.

Frank


PS. Please share this message with others who you know might benefit. Thank you.


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A white picket fence with pink peonies flowers in the evening sunlight.

Notice some of the flowers are in full bloom, while others are spent already.

Although the fence needs a good paint job, it is still sturdy and not broken.

As with our own lives, the fence and the flowers go through cycles of renewal.

It is through our struggles that we become stronger in the many aspects of life.

God gives us hope, in that, He will show us the way .. all we do is, like flowers, depend on Him.

God works through people to do His work, like repairing and painting the fence.

When we are weathered and worn, the reality is that God is with us, though it may not feel like it.




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Photo: Weathered And Worn - A square format photograph of a white picket fence with pink flowers in the evening sunlight. This is from my Personal Work collection, many of them look best as small sized Wood Prints in 8' X 8' or 10' X 10' - Copyright 2018 Frank J Casella All Rights Reserved. Direct link https://fineartamerica.com/featured/weathered-and-worn-frank-j-casella.html
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Fine art photography is an art form that consists of images that are technically excellent, with minimal post-processing. Where as images that are fine art paintings are considered reproductions usually taken straight from the camera with no editing.

Much of what I share in this post is from Barney Davey and his Art Marketing News blog. Printmaking is the process of creating a print from a digital or other electronic image. It is an ancient technique that has been used to create images for hundreds of years. Printmaking can be done on a variety of materials, including paper, cloth, metal, and plastic. The process of printmaking involves the application of a image or pattern to a substrate, such as paper. The artist then prints the image using a printing press.

As I have said before, Art can be a form of hope. When we look at art, we can see images of hope that can give us strength. People need to see examples of hope in the world, because without it, they may become disheartened and lose hope. Art can help to show people that God's love is always with them, no matter what.

There are many reasons why I license my photography through Fine Art America (FAA) / Pixels as my printmaking and photographic agent. For one, their quality prints are some of the highest quality that I have come across, and the prints are printed on high quality substrates. Second, their business model is quite logical - which is quite reasonable considering the high quality of their prints. Finally, their customer service is excellent - if there is ever a problem with a print, they are always willing to help solve it. This helps me to 'focus' on photography and let them do fulfillment.

FAA is a print-on-demand business and their main substrate is a giclee print. A giclee print is produced by spraying microscopic ink droplets with exacting precision directly onto substrates like canvas, paper, metal, wood, and other art materials. The giclee printing technique delivers superior quality reproductions of the original painting when rendered by masters.

Giclee:

“[ zhee-KLAY] n. 1. An archival, fine-art print created via digital inkjet printing utilizing museum-quality papers and canvas and using pigmented inks. AKA: Archival Pigment Print 2. Most often associated with reproductions, a giclée is a copy of an original work of art created by conventional means (painting, drawing, etc.) However, photographic or computer-generated imagery printed using this method can be considered an original print, since they are not reproductions but museum-quality prints created from a digital image file.�

Since these prints are considered original museum-quality prints, this not only keeps them as my intellectual property, but keeps their value as well even though I try to price my works to be affordable to the masses. I have these prints on my own wall, both from my Favorites Collection and my favorites by other artists, and can attest to the quality and colors of the giclee process. I'm so proud to have them and I know that they will last a lifetime.

I hope you found this post educational and informative, though this topic is off the usual path that I write about, and this helps you better with viewing my collection of colorful uplifting photography and gifts, and bring new light and life to your home and those you love.

Image Reference Link - Sunday In The Autumn Woods - https://fineartamerica.com/featured/sunday-in-the-autumn-woods-frank-j-casella.html


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Committed

The key to vision is being committed to it. But many do you find have a hard time with this?

The path to a full life, and reaching your goals, is to be committed to it. There is no vision without being committed to it. We might find road blocks in the way, or things that change our direction a bit, and without being committed to it we just give up before we reach our goal.

Henry Ford comes to mind, how he said something like “Failure is simply the opportunity to begin again, this time more intelligently� as well as “You can’t build a reputation on what you are going to do� and “Vision without execution is just hallucination.�

One of the most difficult forms of being committed for me is with online platforms, as technology changes very fast. Even if you have your own website or blog, the host can change the business plan and you have to move with the changes.

There is also being committed to a relationship, as in marriage, as over the years spouses change and you have to learn to move with it in love. The key to a long marriage is to stay married, and then give each other space.

I thought about this topic for today becuase there are a number of projects I'm working on in life, and with my pictures. And as we approach the fourth quarter of the year I'm reflecting on what I learned from them in the past 9 months, and how I want to approach them for the next year.

“When obstacles arise, you change your direction to reach your goal; you do not change your decision to get there.� -- Zig Ziglar


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Have you ever wondered what it was like to be the leaves at the very top of the trees. Weathering the elements. Providing shade. Yet God created trees for this purpose. Photo: Autumn Tree and Blue Sky - Copyright Frank J Casella Alll Rights Reserved. https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/autumn-tree-and-blue-sky-frank-j-casella.html


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Some childhood friendships are found and shared at the park. This is because children get the opportunity to talk, play, and be themselves usually without worry or stress. This is also where friendships are built, which can last a lifetime. Whether playing tag or flying a kite, there is always something to do in a park.

Childhood is a time when you learn about yourself and the world around you. You explore your surroundings, make new friends, and experience firsts. Childhood is also a time of innocence, when you think everything is possible and nothing can hurt you. As you get older, you learn that there are dangers in the world, but you also learn to take precautions and be more cautious. Childhood is a precious time that should be enjoyed to the fullest!

For me, childhood was a time of bonding with family and friends, and learning about and expressing the world around me (through my camera). I had very encouraging parents, and lived in a neighborhood and community that was very uplifting, and where I still live today. In fact, when life has taken me away for a period of time, I could not wait to return to my hometown.

One important aspect of childhood formation is having engaged parents or grandparents. And with all the distractions that our present society is experiencing, it is important that a mother and a father keep parenting in right perspective, by keeping the family together especially during disagreements as well as participating in family events like holiday and birthday parties, weddings and funerals, and the like, so chidden have a sense of stability and belonging.

In recent years, having a digital life has become a major part of childhood. I find it interesting that many people who developed big tech in Silicon Valley (including the late Steve Jobs) waited to allow their own children to have a smart phone or a social media account, etc. until well into their teen years. This is because they knew the negative effects that these technologies have, and this was before what data mining and mental health have since caused. It is important to example to children how to use balance and moderation with their digital life.

Studies have consistently shown that social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram are bad for mental health. In a study done by the University of Cambridge, it was found that those who use social media for more than two hours a day are 51% more likely to have a mental health problem.

Another study done by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign found that social media use is associated with poorer mental health outcomes in adolescents. The study found that adolescents who used social media more than three hours a day were more than twice as likely to have severe mental health problems.

With good (Christian) friends, a child can often bounce back from difficult situations. A good friend can also be a confidante, providing support and encouragement when things get tough. And when a child feels supported, they are more likely to feel motivated to try new things and to persevere when faced with difficulty. Friendship is a key ingredient in helping a child thrive and grow.

Human interaction through friendships is essential to the formation years of childhood. This is why socializing with others plays such an important role in the development of a well-rounded individual. Friendship provides children with a sense of belonging and helps them to develop social skills. These skills help children learn how to interact with others, which can promote a healthy relationship development as they grow up.





Picture reference link: https://fineartamerica.com/featured/friends-at-the-park-black-and-white-frank-j-casella.html


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Labor Day aligns with a change of seasons, Fall is the most colorful season of the year, and my favorite.

This photograph - Falling Leaves Green Grass - is an abstract of a Fall leaf in the grass that illustrates the perfection of what God has created, for us 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.

I have been thinking much about labor and legacy: How our labor makes a positive difference in the world, or not, and from this what will our legacy look like.

Growing up in a family business I learned first hand there are two ways to own a business: One is entrepreneur and the other is freelancer. The first you set up a business in a way that it continues once you are done building it all you can, and the second basically dies when you do.

For example, my mother was the foundation of the family business, and when she died so did the business. It was the type of business that no matter how much my siblings did to keep the business, people wanted my mothers touch.

I think what will happen with me is a combination of the two. My photography website will close, though my best sellers should continue on Fine Art America. And the Catholic Apostolate that I co-founded to nurture spirituality in men might continue because there are a few people who can do it, just a bit differently.

Speaking of spirituality, as you leave this earth, I believe that it's important to be known for who you are, not for what you do. Your legacy should be what's etched onto your heart - your identity in Jesus Christ.

That’s what Christ is looking for in his followers. Being a Christian doesn’t mean you have to give up your career or your profession. What it does mean is that you should put your faith in Christ and serve Him first, through serving others. That’s what will give you the most fulfillment in life, and it will be the legacy that you leave behind.

The interesting thing with photography and the internet is, in recent years a hand-full of photography friends have known passed away, who I consider them my mentors. Although their business website shut down after their death, you can still find their images making impact on the internet.

You go onto Tumblr and Facebook too and find their posts even though their account is shut down, because of how much their pictures were shared. On Fine Art America there are several artists who have passed on and their works are still selling. This is how their lives have brought beauty to the world.

But there are many of us who just live our lives and pass on, and you might think we will be forgotten. But I believe that we live for the moment in time, because how we labor and how we live makes colorful impressions on those we cross paths with, good or bad .. and that is our legacy.


"He who labors as he prays lifts his heart to God with his hands."
— St. Benedict of Nursia





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Photo: Conversations on the Bridge at the Wetlands Preserve - A natural Fall color fine art version of two people enjoying conversations while laying on the bridge at the wetlands preserve - Midwest America - Copyright 2019 Frank J Casella All Rights Reserved.


Over the summer months when I have needed to go someplace around town, I have decided to walk instead of take the car. Not only is walking good for your health (and weight), but it allows you to see things that you would not when passing by in the car. I have not walked as much since we lost both of the dog's, when I would take them for a walk twice a day: Why Everyone Should Have a Dog

With each dog I have had taught me something different about unconditional love.

While walking around town I have bumped into strangers as well as shared conversations with people who I have not seen in a while, and I have noticed how the neighborhoods are changing in response to both the economic boom and bust of the past few years.

Then I read these words in a recent newsletter from Dr. Gary Chapman that I can not stop thinking about:

"Sometimes we fall into a negative mindset that keeps us from being our best in relationships. Here's an example: "I’ll treat them better when they start treating me better.� Such an attitude misses out on the power of unconditional love. Unconditional love is the choice to love someone else no matter how they treat you."

With my work in Catholic men's ministry I see this first hand. Heartbreak, pain in peoples hearts deeply hidden, they are not going to tell you (at first) because they don't trust or been hurt in the past.

We carry deep wounds in our heart. Talking and conversations helps healing, not talking creates more unresolved anger, and unmet expectations.

That is why this picture illustrating conversation is a good reminder (myself included) and so important. We need to listen to each other more, be compassionate to others, loving, don't put them in box, but try to understand where they are coming from.

A little care, and kindness.

Sharing our frustrations can help with progress, and the key to lasting relationships is forgiveness.





Reference link; https://fineartamerica.com/featured/conversations-on-the-bridge-at-the-wetlands-preserve-frank-j-casella.htm


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Photo: 'On Time ' - Railfans engage in an Amtrak Train passing on time by the train observation platform in Homewood, Illinois - USA - Copyright 2009 Frank J Casella.


The other day on the way to my favorite grocery store I walked passed the railfan observation platform, and could not help but notice two young families enjoying the cargo trains moving in and out of the train yard, and the passenger trains stopping at the platforms.

Talking to them, one was a local family, and the other was visiting from out of state, both of them sharing a common interest. I was going to make a picture of the silhouetted human figures as the trains move by, but felt the timing off a bit as it might become a distraction. Sometimes moments are for me to absorb and build on for later.

But this got me to thinking about how we hear today of all the division and racism in our culture, you wouldn't know it watching these complete strangers engage with each other. And the symbolism of how the trains travel making connections through communities across this vast land called America.

This also got me to thinking how my serving on the committee to make this platform possible many years ago has become a greater impact on humanity than I ever envisioned. It was not easy, as there where several viewpoints and opinions on why we should do this, and how it should be done, but we all worked together to completion.

Keep it simple: the decisions that we make today has an impact on how future generations experience humanity, how we relate to each other on what we do agree on is the foundation of good relationships and a good society. This is part of the meaning behind the flag of our country, and how we have functioned for decades: The United States of America.





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This is an update to my blog post: Keep Your Focus.

Photo: Radiant Light pours over a candle lit risen Christ on the Cross. When we focus on Jesus, God the Father will reveal His presence when we stop looking at self. This is the secret.

Of all the English words, "focus" is perhaps one of the most difficult to define. One meaning of focus is a center of activity, attraction, or attention. Another meaning is to keep a mind on a task. Yet another meaning is to make something sharper.

Like with photography, you use the lens to control the focus of the image: clarity and subject.

For example, when you are photographing people, you might want them to be more in focus than the background. This can be done by using a close-up lens, which makes the subject appear closer to the lens, and a wide angle lens, which makes the subject appear more distant from the camera. Likewise, the lens that you use on the camera helps to determine the information shared and angle of view.

I have noticed at the Art Institute, for example, how an exhibit of an artists work might only have one large painting or photograph, or a hand-full of smaller pieces to go with the one large one. This is because in our information overloaded and digital distracted world, it is becoming more of a challenge to focus on one thing for more than a few moments.

Of all my religious photographs, Radiant Light is the one that people say provides focus, comfort, hope, and center. During the Confirmation season especially it is gifted as a Notebook, Oval Ornament, and a Sticker, to name a few.

Several large Metal Prints have been purchased as a focal point for during ones prayer time. And this is more so now with the crisis and struggles we are experiencing in our present society.

Though we need weeds in our lives to help us keep our focus, if we focus our attention on news and gossip we will miss God's incredible, visionary, optimistic purpose for every believer: to grow so much in our faith that we shine like radiant beacons of inspiration to everyone around us! Jesus exampled on the Cross, it is through our struggle that we see the Glory!

The gift of God’s unconditional love, given for you and for me.




Reference link; https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/radiant-light-frank-j-casella.html


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Photo: Starbucks Coffee Vibe - Color Photograph Copyright 2011 Frank J Casella

I walked past this coffee house in the Millennium Train Station in Chicago, Illinois, and I could not help but stop to capture the vibe of this moment in time. It was so weird being in the middle of all of this history and technology, and I could feel from the people the excitement in the air.

I don't care for Starbucks though I love coffee, but I find it interesting that they have so many locations in a suburban community, like where I live. And the drive-up always has a long line.

And rightly so, coffee is the best drink in the world. But branding is more than just churning out the best product on the market; it's about creating a unique and memorable identity for your company and giving customers a reason to continue coming back.

Branding is not about slapping a logo on something and calling it good. For example, Starbucks is known for its coffee, but it's also known for its unique stores and the friendliness of its staff. It's not just a coffee shop- it's a Starbucks.

Similarly, Monet is known for his paintings, but you can also find his paintings at galleries all over the world. His brand is synonymous with quality artwork, no matter where you find it.

I love to cook on Weber grills, they are legendary for their reliability and the flavor they create with food, they are not known as a grill but a Weber. But now you don't only go to just to buy a grill. Here in Chicagoland especially, you go to a Weber grill eatery to eat burgers and chicken breasts. The brand is synonymous with flavorful food.

Likewise, people ask me what camera I use, so they can buy the same camera and make pictures like I do. I always smile when someone reacts to my pictures for the first time, they usually say 'you must have a really nice camera'. Really though, people who've followed my pictures over the years say there is a distinctive 'Casella' look to them, and that is the way I think an artist should use branding.

There's no one right way to approach branding, but it's important to find a way that works best for your company and helps you stand out from the competition. If you do it right, branding can be the key to success for your business. As long as you know your customer base, and that you can't appeal to everyone.

Branding all about marketing, and I wish these words below were mine, but Seth Godin said them:

"Marketing is creating the conditions for a story to spread so you can help people get to where they hope to go. Marketing is work that matters for people who care, a chance to create products and services that lead to change.

If you have to interrupt, trick or coerce people to get the word out, you might be doing too much promotion and not enough marketing.

But the web amplifies pull instead. When you need something, you tell Google or Amazon or Lyft or Shopify and they bring it to you. The ratio of inventory to demand has shifted dramatically–instead of one encyclopedia in every single house that sits idly waiting for you to need it, there’s just one Wikipedia, available to be pulled by anyone, at will.

When we seek to make change, our instinct is to start pushing. But shifting to pull can create efficiencies that can’t be matched by mass promotion."

And my favorite: " And worth noting: The Mona Lisa has a huge social media presence. Her picture is everywhere. But she doesn’t tweet. She’s big on social media because she’s an icon, but she’s not an icon because she’s big on social media. "




Buy Print | Buy Card | Buy Framed Print | Licensing



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


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Photo: Reading in the Park - City of Chicago - Copyright 2016 Frank J Casella

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.

Every photograph has a story to tell. As well, behind every photograph is a story. And behind every story is history that brought the story to this point in time.

(Do you need to read that again?)

In other words, when I click the camera shutter to make a photograph, there are many hours of learning the background why the photograph has a story.

In the same way, every good writer is a voracious reader. Behind every hour of writing, it is said, is at least 10 hours of reading.

Every great musician is known as an insatiable listener. .. and so on.

An interesting thing I have learned from reading the books, and listening to the podcasts, by Rabbi Daniel Lapin, is that he claims Jews make up one of the smallest communities in America. Yet, they are the most wealthy in the country.

Why is this?

He says because they keep reading, and you will find in most of their homes books and books on the shelves and everywhere else.

So my point being, the more you read, the more you learn, and the more you master the category of your field of interest.

Today, however, it is hard to know how much a person reads, or how many books they own, because you can fit shelves of books in the hard drive of an iPad.

The iPad has become a consumption device, for example.

Compare (or contrast this) with the many people on social media and the like who share opinions without even knowing the full story or history of what they mare making opinion.

Some of our Lawmakers in Washington D.C. have the same issue, I think. They don't understand the 'why' behind the story .. or the law ... or the US Constitution.

My favorite app for this is Hoopla, because you can loan most any digital book there is through your public library .. for free!

When you know the background to the 'why' behind a story, it gives the story ... and life .. more meaning.




Image reference https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/reading-in-the-park-city-of-chicago-frank-j-casella.html



Thank you for reading,

Enjoy your day!

Frank J Casella, Art Photographer
Blogger on Fine Art America


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The power of prayer is an important aspect of our lives. It is illustrated in Art immensely. I believe in the power of prayer to God through Jesus makes a positive difference in our world. I talk about it much here on my Artist Blog.

Because, as I have said, "this blog is a creative outlet for me and my works. When I want you to know something, I'm going to talk about it here, both with the mails I send you and with the blogs. This is where you'll be able to find me over time and space. This is my home."

Most importantly, I have found prayer in numbers - the more people who send intercessory prayers - make a powerful impact, as well as the depth of how much we believe in answered prayer.

Although I have developed to live my life as a prayer, if you will, my life is still a work in progress. Here are some thoughts on developing a prayer life:

- We are all called to holiness.
- Personal prayer – try to spend a few minutes a day in silent prayer training yourself to listen to the will of God.
- Get a spiritual director or companion. Find someone who has more experience than you in the spiritual life to help you on this journey.
- Read the Bible. Such as reading the daily Mass readings every day as part of your prayer.
- Participate often in the Sacraments of Eucharist and Reconciliation, if your faith that you belong to practices it.
- Stay close to Mary, Jesus’s mother. She is the first and best disciple of Christ because she, above all others, followed the will of the Father.
- Surround yourselves with other strong Catholic Christians who help you live your faith. Community is very important.

Below are some of my favorite posts about prayer (links are to the FineArtAmerica version in case you wish to post a comment):

Worry
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Perpetual Adoration
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Reflectin On Lent
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Silense Is Still Golden
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Lord God Of Peace Hear Our Prayer
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Prayers OF A Mother
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Father In Prayer
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Let There Be Peace On Earth
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Prayer Does Not Go To Waste
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God In The World
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Image reference https://fineartamerica.com/featured/when-men-put-god-first-frank-j-casella.html



Thank you for reading,

Enjoy your day!

Frank J Casella, Art Photographer
Blogger on Fine Art America


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Photo: Breezeway - Chasing the golden hour sun, I found this summer morning light moment in my neighbors back yard. Many times, both in life and in photography, the best moments are where we're planted if we look for them.


- The Best Moments -

In photography, the best moments to me are when all the elements line up together: The light, the weather (if outdoors), the people or subject, the background, and the involvement of all these together. Back in the day when I was more so making more pictures of people, yet still today, I always say a little prayer when I pick up my camera that the Lord will put before it what He wants the world to see.

In life, the best moments to me are where you become enriched or Enlighted or, better yet, where you inspire another and become enriched or Enlighted through it as well. Like when I was a young boy visiting my late Grandmother, we would sit in the breezeway together on a summer evening to watch the sunset and the birds out in the backyard at the feeder and birdbath, especially when the humid weather brought out the mosquitoes and other bugs.

Grandma would make me a sandwich and tall glass of cold milk, usually it would be hard salami with butter or liver sausage with mustard on Italian bread. I remember Grandma reading to me from National Geographic about nature, or from the encyclopedia about things like the flowers and the bugs we were seeing out the breezeway.

I also remember her sharing from Time Magazine about when Gerald Ford became president, and his history in the state of Michigan, as we have relatives from his home town. How this inspired me that you can be an ordinary person and still become extraordinary.

I few summers I would stay with my cousins in Michigan for a month. My Dad would drop us off at the train, Grandma would ride with me from Chicago and stay a couple days, then come back again a month later to 'pick me up'. I would tell Grandma about my thoughts and dreams, and wondering what it would be like, and she would listen carefully and share or expand on what I was saying.

This would always provide me insight and encouragement. Because Grandma has been (as we say in Chicago) 'around the block'. She raised five children by herself after my Grandfather passed away when my Father was himself a young boy. So Grandma had much wisdom about life.

Her advice always started with the words 'bloom where you're planted'. Because many times, as she put it, we want jump to the end before we get started. But when we start where we are, then we learn more on the way to the end result. Grandma was born and lived her childhood in Austria, so she had that European way about her, though she was also a gentle woman.

So whether it is with photographs or with life, the best moments happen I believe because with God there are no coincidences. That, if we look for it, there is something God wants to say to you through another or experience, or (say) to the world through you.

Just look around you.



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Thank you for reading,

Enjoy your day!

Frank J Casella, Art Photographer
Blogger on Fine Art America


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Photo: Lakefront Vibe City of Chicago - Urban Landscape Photograph Copyright 2018 Frank J Casella. From strollers to segways, people enjoy the beautiful weather in Grant Park on the lake in Chicago, Illinois.


Note: Below is from a private newsletter that I wrote in 2017, slightly edited for relevance (in some ways I think that my writing was better then, in other ways not so much).

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In His Will Is Our Peace

My wife and I have two boy's, and this is a picture [I no longer share pictures about my family online] of them from a decade ago. We at that time, more than recent, would go on walks in the city of Chicago for a day. It provides them structure in many ways, and also examples to them how to be street smart, and working together (as a family). The couple walking in the background competes the storytelling for this picture I think, because I titled it 'Peaceful'.


We live in a war torn world. Relationships, families, and marriages are struggling. The United States has the most wealth in the world, with the most resources (apart from money), has the power to lead the world towards peace. Many times, though, I find Americans with a heavy weight on their shoulders. Many of us have deep worry, yet we do not know true poverty because we have government programs to at least keep food in our stomach. Food pantry's are becoming more in need than not.


Some think we are divided about the true meaning of our Flag. I think we are more divided about how to treat others in complimentary ways. Our president loves the flag and arguably is trying to remind us of the 'rules' we have forgotten.


When I was a kid, and work needed to be done around the house, we always had neighbors who either could help with something we could not do ourselves, or the tools to get the job done. Today, it seems, we all have our own tools, and lean on Google to learn how to do something.

I don't know ....

God's will mostly is that we depend on Him. Yet I don't see us living this. We want our way more than God's way. Or rationalize that our way is God's way.


Every morning I wake up and ask God to speak to me, then open the Bible and read the page that comes to me. Here are some recent scriptures that I have received:

Ben Sira (Sirach) 23:15 - Those accustomed to using abusive language will never acquire discipline as long as they live.

Isaiah 7:19 - Unless your faith is firm you shall not be firm.

Mark 13:8 - Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquake from place to place and there will be famines. These are the beginnings of labor pains.

Ben Sira (Sirach) 30:1 - Whoever loves a son will chastise him often, that he may be his joy when he grows up.

Mark 12:29 - Jesus replied "The first is this: Hear O israel! The Lord our God is Lord alone! You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.


What does all this mean?

1) Many American's are seeking structure in their lives. We have so much available to us, and so many wants, that our wants are distracting us from our needs. Parenting is about what our children deserve instead of what they need.

In other words, my wife and I to this day provide structure for our boy's, that structure is to look at the world through God's eyes and live your life as a prayer. People ask how they've accomplished so much. We say that we've never told them they couldn't. (because they lean on God for strength and guidance).

There have been some setbacks, and they've only made us all stronger.

2) Many people today are alone. They want to feel loved, respected, and have purpose.

Something interesting: I've been talking with an artist coach, he asked me what one picture do I have in my head that describes the 'why' or purpose of my photography. I said that would be two people embracing or sharing a peaceful moment with each other.

If you look at the picture above that I made a decade ago, the themes from these two points here, and the scriptures shared, its not too far off from the major events going on. This gives me a heavy heart, to make sure that what I'm doing is truly God's will.


God uses people to do His work. They key is we have to be open to His will and depend on him, not ourselves. This takes time to think, to pray ... and to mostly listen. To hear His voice.

Something more interesting: Although I target my artwork towards Catholic's living their faith, in recent months there has been a theme from people saying how they are not Catholic and my works speak to them .. and stop them.


In His will is our peace.



So now I've again gone over my seven hundred word limit that I've promised you. I will continue this very soon ...

Peace to you this day,

Frank J Casella, Art Photographer
Blogger on Fine Art America

Image reference link https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/lakefront-vibe-city-of-chicago-frank-j-casella.html


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All of us go through times when we think that we are not good enough, or do not measure up. After reading this discussion thread on Fine Art America where one artist asked 'Do you ever wonder if your Art drawings or Photo images are not good enough ... ?'

Many of the artists making comments in the thread shared some insights that not only applied to the business of art, but applied to the way of life as well. Very inspiring!

The short answer, at least for me, is that many of my photographs that I think will not sell, actually have the most engagement and sales. So it is all perspective ... but ...

This got me to thinking what I have learned about measuring up, especially now in what seems to be a divided world of being accepted.

A lot of times that I have felt to be not good enough, looking back at it, were the times that I was alone in my own thoughts, looking at others or what I thought they had or where about.

I used to measure my artwork, like many artists do, by its engagement with how many sales, or comments, etc. each of the images would see. We see this a lot on our own social media as well. But then I came to the realization that activity does not measure accomplishment.

What I learned instead is from Pope Benedict XVI, where he says something like the best way to see your value in life is to constantly be reaching out to others with your gifts and abilities. Don't measure the response.

The late Zig Ziglar says it another way, that 'the best way to find a friend, is to be a friend'.

One way that I have reached out to others or to be a friend is with writing personal notes. For example when someone says a nice thing (about me), when I notice something a person I know does something to make a positive difference in the world, or just to simply say thank you.

I learned about how to do this when I worked for the late Joseph Cardinal Bernardin. He would write thank you letters for thank you letters. His Eminence, I noticed, seemed to have a simple format that he used:

- Be honest and to keep your message concise.
- Be real and write how you talk.
- Express your appreciation for the recipient's involvement in this matter.
- (If possible, mentioning the past and alluding to the future. This can be as simple as saying it was nice to see the person at a recent event, and/or that you look forward to seeing them at an upcoming event.)
- In closing, use the words 'thank you' as often as possible.
- Close your message by restating your appreciation and signing the note, preferably with your first and last name.


I usually send the notes on the Pixels Greeting Cards product with my photography to inspire them, unless I need to send them a link or other digital content where I would then send an email instead.

The impact of a hand-written note can not be understated to making a lasting impression, especially in this digital world as the price of a postage stamp to send this note becomes a tremendous value to the recipient.

I remember the time when I wrote a note in response to a person who wrote me to say they made a very large art canvas of one of my photographs and put it on the wall in their dining room where they live in Trump Tower Chicago.

Later on I was at a baseball game and introduced myself to the person sitting next to me. They asked if I was a photographer, I said yes, and they informed me that they noticed my name because the thank you note that I wrote to the art collector, whom they know, was on display and framed next to 'my' art canvas on the wall.

The art collector simply cut the card in half to frame the front picture of the card with the inside note side by side. Ever since I heard that, I make it a 'note' to only write inside on one side of the card, as I did with this one.

Another thing I have been doing is something I learned from broadcaster Paul Harvey when he was a guest speaker at one of my classes back at Columbia College Chicago, talking about how to tell a story. It goes like this, for example, and I have done this many times when I was the director for my local Chamber of Commerce, I would write a note to a person that I saw at a breakfast place (or wherever) but could not walk over to chat with because the person I was with needed my attention.

A few of the persons that I wrote have my note on their desk, and others tell everyone they can what it says and means to them. Though most of them the person would thank me the next time they saw me or called me on the phone, etc. This tells me the impression made, but that is not why I do it.

So, again, the point is that when you reach out to others this is how you find your value in making a positive difference in the world, and this keeps you from focusing on self perception. God will show you that you are good enough and how, if you seek Him and look for it.



Photo: Bird House in the Prairie - Heat Effect on a Greeting Card. Reference link https://fineartamerica.com/featured/bird-house-in-the-prairie-heat-frank-j-casella.html?product=greeting-card




Thank you for reading,

Enjoy your day!

Frank J Casella, Art Photographer
Blogger on Fine Art America


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Last week I talked about The Value of Art, so this week I will add to it by talking about how pennies make dollars. Because many of you who responded to last weeks blog asking why I talk about framing greeting cards when the frame cost way more with the card you purchase. The answer to this is you buy the frames at the Dollar Store, which is the illustration I meant to provide with talking about affordable food purchases.

Growing up in a family business my parent's (who were born in the 1920's) had a mantra, if you will, that pennies make dollars. My father also emphasized this with my siblings and I as we got older on how we should work and provide for our families. In other words, pennies make dollars because people spend them - if there were no pennies, people would have to spend more money to purchase the same amount of goods - and this usually works best with repetition and duplication.

For example, as a business model, one of the reasons fast food restaurants make so much money is because customers are drawn in by the affordability of small burgers and fries. The average fast food meal costs just over $4, and customers are likely to buy multiple small burgers and fries instead of one large one.

In fact, fast food restaurants have been known to make as much as 80% of their total sales from small hamburgers and fries. Large burgers and fries, on the other hand, only account for around 10% of total sales. This is likely because customers are often more likely to order a large burger if it is more affordable, and they are less likely to order it if it is more expensive.

The same is true with the simple Greeting Card framed, and this can be just as important to our survival as food. Thus my description about Greeting Cards and the value of Art is how they are an affordable way to own artwork that speaks to you. Living simply is the best way to make it through the economic inflation we are now experiencing.

I actually create my photographs for cards compared to the average artist on Pixels who put a lot of energy into selling big sizes and more of them. But my true intention is to help people to live simply.

The other question many of you asked is what I mean by my intentional living the lay Catholic vow of poverty. The lay Catholic vow of poverty requires participants to live below their means and to make every effort to minimize their possessions. Participants are also expected to give away any extra money that they earn. This vow is meant to illustrate the importance of voluntary poverty and to encourage people to think about ways to decrease their materialism.

A part of the vow of poverty includes redemptive suffering, which means what I give up (with food or possessions, etc.) is in sacrifice for a specific cause. Redemptive suffering is a powerful tool used by God in the salvation of sinners. It allows Him to bring about eternal forgiveness in people's lives.

It is through the power of Christ's shed blood that we are saved from our sins, and through His resurrection that we are called to new life. In fact, it is through our suffering that we are able to learn and grow in our relationship with God.

Finally, some of you asked about the food from the Dollar Store, how some of it is more expensive than say Walmart or Aldi, and some of it does not use as good ingredients as other stores. Yes, this is why I also mentioned stores that sell the Best Choice Brand / Always Save Brand as, for example, canned or frozen veggies cost less than a dollar with these brands, if fresh produce is not a choice. And Laundry detergent 'flys off the shelf' at the Dollar Store.

You can shop Aldi or Walmart if you prefer or have no choice, but since I have a choice the organizations these two businesses donate to are not in agreement with my Catholic values. It didn't used to be this way, but now more and more we are forced to make these choices. Especially in our culture of abundance, and the recent business climate where pennies makes dollars.

So this is my take on helping each other make it through life, and the business of Art.



Photo: Glorious Morning 2 - An egg sandwich on a plate and a steaming hot fresh cup of coffee illuminated by the morning sunrise, makes for a glorious morning. Reference link https://pixels.com/featured/glorious-morning-2-frank-j-casella.html




Thank you for reading,

Enjoy your day!

Frank J Casella, Art Photographer
Blogger on Fine Art America


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For sometime I have been food shopping at the dollar store (and other stores that sell Best Choice Brand), because I intentionally live the lay Catholic vow of poverty. It is amazing how well you can eat for about twenty dollars a week. Usually at the dollar store check-out line there are about three people in front of me. In recent weeks, I suspect due to the economy, you will see no less than twelve in line.

People are buying on total price more than total value. .. so they think. They are buying their pop and chips and other things that don't usually add to nutritional value, as usual, but now I see more of them buying everyday food staples too.

This got me to thinking about the value of Art and, specifically, art photography. In other words, more people buy my photography on a greeting card than as a framed print, for example. And in recent weeks, even more people are buying my photography on greeting cards. Because they can also frame the cards and hang them on the wall, it has the quality of a mini framed print. Plus, this is why I price my cards to be affordable works of Art and inspiration, compared to the prints.

The value of an Art photograph is determined by its sentimental value, its aesthetic value, and its historical value.

A picture is worth a thousand words, but sometimes the words can't express the beauty and worth of a photograph. Photographs are like time capsules that capture a moment in time and can be looked at over and over again to get a new perspective and feel. Whether you are a collector, historian, or just appreciate the beauty of photography, an art photograph has amazing value.

How much is an artwork worth? That's a question that has engaged thinkers for centuries. Some experts estimate that a Rembrandt painting could be worth upwards of $250 million. Other artworks, like a Van Gogh painting, can be worth more millions of dollars.

No one can definitively say how much any given artwork is worth, as price fluctuations are often tied to the artist's success or popularity at the time of sale. Rather than guessing, it's often better to consult a reputable art appraisal service (for this Great Art).

More importantly, I think, the value of art is subjective and can vary from person to person. However, art is often seen as a form of expression that can evoke strong emotions in those who view it. Some people believe that art can help to improve the quality of life by providing an outlet for emotions, while others believe that art can provide a sense of community. Ultimately, the value of art is up to the individual.

In a similar way, one reason I food shop the dollar stores is because flavor and consistent quality of the food is often as good or better than the big name brands, and this is what usually gives me the value.

And the reason I sell my artwork through Pixels is not only their proven fulfillment service but, with you in mind, so that I can say what my art will sell for on their superbly printed and consistent quality products.

And the words that I hear from most of you about my Art is that it is not what price you pay, but what it is about my Art that makes it priceless to you.

That to me is the value of Art.



Photo: Eggs With Steam - Copyright 2014 Frank J Casella - reference link: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/eggs-with-steam-frank-j-casella.html



Thank you for reading,

Enjoy your day!

Frank J Casella, Art Photographer
Blogger on Fine Art America


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The newlyweds who live next door are expecting their first child. And I notice the husband getting 'big' along with his wife, because he seems stressed about all that is involved in having children, especially a first child.

So I walked over and handed him my books about being a Father for the first time, and answered his questions about this topic. By the time I left you could see the peace on his face, that he is not the first guy to experience this event.

Ever notice how the first born gets 'detailed' because mom and dad are learning how to be parents for the child, and with each other, but the rest of the kids after that it seems more laid back a bit. Like the parents know what to expect the next times so they just move with it ... again.

I remember our first child - though I want to believe that I had it a bit easer because my wife and her mother were extremely sensitive and detailed about all the needs, and have been ever since - all of the unanswered questions, concerns and worries dissipate once you see that new person for the first time. There are no words or pictures to describe that feeling of positive overwhelment. God knows what He is doing!

Men do not usually talk about this stuff like women do. I do not recall my Dad or Father in-law telling me about what to expect, other than what a blessing children are and a gift from God. The greatest concern I had was to be a loving father. This is more important than being a great (financial) provider or anything else.

If every kid in America had a loving father in the home, we would have far, far fewer problems that we would have to deal with as a society. There are many societal problems to the growing lack of active fatherhood, calling on fathers to be “interested,� “present,� and “setting a good example� for their children. Our society down plays fatherhood, and the family structure of a man and woman with children as well.

The feelings and emotions of a new mother are extremely important, so too are the hurts of the new father. Many do not realize what a man goes through as result of a misscarrage. On the other hand, I recall this social media post not too long ago:

" My former girlfriend aborted my child. I learned about it through my attorney. I wept for months. "

We need to encourage as a society more children born into families, because it is what makes the world go around (as the saying goes). We need more pictures around depicting children and parents interacting, and the role of the loving father in the Childs life. And we need society to get out of the way of husbands and fathers so they can be encouraged to naturally lead and be the dad they all want to be, and that we really want them to be (men don't talk or cry about this stuff).

FATHERHOOD WALL ART - A beautiful collection of images inspired by father and child. Many Fathers, whether they know it or not, are at the center of their kids world. Depicting the loving bond between a father and child, or the things dad's love, these photographs are sure to captivate art lovers all over the world, and speak to the child in all of us and remind us of how it felt to spend time with the greatest man in our lives.

Remember, we have the Holy Family - Jesus, Mary, and Joseph - as a great example of what a family is and should be.




Image reference link: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/in-daddys-arms-frank-j-casella.html



Thank you for reading,

Enjoy your day!

Frank J Casella, Art Photographer
Blogger on Fine Art America


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- Listen To The Street -

It's been known that one of the most effective ways for writing stories is with the use of picture words. This is something I learned much about back when I was at Columbia College Chicago, as my favorite class (outside of photography) was Writing Workshop. And for most of the class sessions we did a thing called 'listen to the street'.

This is where the professor would open up the windows, as our building was in the deep of the Chicago Loop, and we all were still and quiet as we listened to the sounds on the street. After a short time the windows would close and all of us would share from our notes through picture words what we ' saw ' on the street.

This is where I came to understand the reverse of picture words for my photography, as ' word pictures '.... thus the thought behind my mantra of ' pictures people listen to '. What this means (to me) is that when you study my photographs you should find many elements to describe it in words. This photograph - Chicago L Between The Walls - is only one example:

-- A colorful photograph of the average neighborhood street scene in the Chicago Loop, with sunlight and shadow play, with an L-evated train track between the walls of several different old and new colored buildings down the street. There are cars and people moving about in the shadow of the ' L ' tracks. When I made this photograph there was a dog barking, a person yelling from their window to another person yelling back, a woman with her high-heel shoes tapping as she's walking across the street behind my camera, as well as the roar of an airplane overhead along with the rumble of a distant L train approaching. There's a van slowly moving through the scene with loud music echoing off the different buildings. Yet, amongst all of this activity there seemed to be a scene of peace and quiet moments if you looked for it. --

All this to say that, words play an important role in society and in our relationships. Unfortunately, in our present culture we all need to do a better job of listening to one another. Communication does not take place if listening has not taken place.

I remember back in grade school the Nuns used to say ' God gave you two ears and one mouth, so that you listen more than you talk '. It is said that Saint Augustine used to encourage listening with the heart, to receive words not outwardly through the ears, but spiritually in our hearts: “ Do not have your heart in your ears, but your ears in your heart �.

And this too is how I aim to communicate through my photographs, spiritually with my heart. For example, watch this weekly short video (that I make) for ' my ' Catholic men's apostolate, here and is on this subject ' Listen To One Another '.



Image reference link: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/chicago-l-between-the-walls-frank-j-casella.html


Thank you for reading,

Enjoy your day!

Frank J Casella, Art Photographer
Blogger on Fine Art America


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-- Grandpa --

With this photograph: Grandpa - A Grandpa gives a child a ride on his lap on the tractor. Telling from the smile on his face, he was enjoying this as much as the boy seems to be.

But this is only one role a grandfather plays in the family. Another one is to be a mentor to his children about parenting from the male perspective. I am sure you know of, or can think of, others ...

I never met my Grandfather from my Dad's side of the family, because he passed away when my Dad was a young boy. This got me to thinking one day how my Grandfather gave me something that only he could.

In his short life he not only gave me my Dad, and my Dad to me, but he gave both of us the family name: Casella.

Although as a Catholic my true identity is in Jesus Christ, here on earth I have my identity by my name. Family names are very important in the Bible, and they are also important with my Italian heritage.

My Dad instilled in my siblings and I how important it was to make a good on the family name. He had to learn growing up without a Father how to be a man, and then example this to my brother's and I. And example to my sister's what to expect from a man (to marry).

All this to say that the role of a grandfather transitions from that of a father setting the mission for the family, towards teaching life lessons to grandchildren. And with this picture of the boy on the tractor, Grandpa shows him what it's about maybe more by example than with instruction.




Image reference link: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/grandpa-frank-j-casella.html


Thank you for reading,

Enjoy your day!

Frank J Casella, Art Photographer
Blogger on Fine Art America


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With this latest photograph Sunlit Pink Flowers - A bush of pink flowers illuminated by the morning sunlight along the neighborhood sidewalk in Midwest America - Illinois.

Life is filled with simple moments.

I have been making pictures for over fifty years. If you count before I become professional, back when I was a young boy. It has all been about the simple moment or, as I say, pictures people listen to.

Being very shy as a child, I found pictures to do my talking about how I see humanity and the world around me. People responded to them, and often said I should put them in Art galleries.

But I would have none of it.

I may have an Italian name, but my other half is German, and you know what they say .. you can tell a German, you just can't tell him anything.

Truth be told, I didn't have the energy to do the gallery circuit, as well as travel around doing art shows .. set up, take down, and repeat. I grew up in a family business where it was hard enough to bloom where you are planted, and watching the mailbox each day for receivables.

That is until the internet was invented.

So, in 2013 is when I found Fine Art America or, rather, it found me - FAA takes care of presenting my work and fulfillment, and I create it and get the word out, short of the long.

I learned about how this works from when I was a photojournalist: Shoot the film and then hand it to the lab, etc. .. it's about teamwork

When I worked for Cardinal Bernardin (mostly) in the 90's it became evident to me the importance of having and knowing your platform - what is your ' WHY '

Over the decades, this has never been about the money or making sales, it has always been about how society needs examples, through works of Art, of goodness and hope - The Simple Moment. Fine Art Photography is a by product of my work through the Catholic men's apostolate that I co-founded. Likewise, I could not have done any of this without my family!

All of this to say thank you for enjoying my artwork, and, how it inspires you so much to share it with others. That is what it is there for and why I do it. Again, thank you for how you make a positive impact on the world.

Life is too short (otherwise), and we need simple moments to inspire us more than ever in recent history.


"The only thing we take with us when we die, is what we have given away."
~ Francis Cardinal George




Image reference link: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/sunlit-pink-flowers-frank-j-casella.html


Thank you for reading,

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Frank J Casella, Art Photographer
Blogger on Fine Art America


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With this latest photograph Morning Blue Hour Abstract - Pine tree silhouettes illuminated by the blue hour sunrise in the America Midwest of Illinois. The Blue Hour is at twilight, when the Sun is quite far below the horizon, coloring the sky deep blue. As for abstract, its deffinition is just as subjective as its name implies.

Abstract images are conceived or imagined outside of ‘reality’. They can encompass a huge variety of subject matter, take us out of our comfort zone, make us question what we see, or invite us to enter another realm.

If you look at my favorites by others artists, you will see more of their abstract works than you may find in my own artwork gallery. This is because when I create an abstract work it is not the original intention, rather the work lends itself to being a tweak away from reality. I am mostly a person of reality, as those who know me best will tell you.

Though I do have a great appreciation for people who are abstract thinkers, as much as I do for abstract artworks.

A true deffiniton, that I learned in college, for abstract photography, sometimes called non-objective, experimental or conceptual photography, is a means of depicting a visual image that does not have an immediate association with the object world and that has been created through the use of photographic equipment, processes or materials.

However, on Fine Art America it says that abstract art is the process of using unusual forms, color schemes, and materials to create an art product. The work is not meant to duplicate the real appearance of an item. Instead, it is used to elicit thoughtfulness and feelings based on the overall abstraction.

Discover my abstract photographs and the thoughtfulness that they evoke for yourself.

Image reference link: https://pixels.com/featured/morning-blue-hour-abstract-silhouette-frank-j-casella.html


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Frank J Casella, Art Photographer
Blogger on Fine Art America


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The Yes Of A Mother

This photograph Family Out For A Walk, an American family plays " follow the leader ' with a young boy and his red wagon, who can't wait to get to a parade.

As you know, Mother's Day is a time to remember the women in our lives who have experienced a child in her womb, born or unborn, or raises a child through adoption, and the important role that a mother plays in society.

St. Joseph was a man who understood the 'why' of Mary, the Mother of Jesus, and her 'Yes' to God as that her womb is known as the first tabernacle of Jesus.

We would not have Jesus without Mary. Likewise, every man who understands the 'why', and every woman who says 'yes', to a child makes a positive impact on the world.

After Joseph dies, Jesus is raised by a single mom.

While single mothers often live heroically amid difficult circumstances, and the absence of a father does not condemn a child to a life of hardship, it has long been known that such families face an uphill battle among children in fatherless homes.

This is why together the virtues of mother and father over lap, yet, it is the mother who nurtures and the father who sets mission for the family.

All of this to say that a Mother deserves to have a day set aside a place of honor, though we should be mindful of this everyday.

Thank you for reading,

Enjoy your day!

Frank J Casella, Art Photographer
Blogger on Fine Art America

Image reference link: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/family-out-for-a-walk-frank-j-casella.html



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Note: This is information about FineArtAmerica / Pixels member blogs only and not other third-party blogs.



One of the hidden secrets free to all of us members on Fine Art America / Pixels, in addition to contests and groups, is the blog tool. All of us who use this tool do so in several different ways. Some of us do not use them at all (yet). Those of us who use the premium website tool (AW) have a few more features to benefit from. ...

So, I want to host this blog entry to talk about the how to's, because a part of the Pixels community is about helping each other in life as artists, and the business of Art. As the slogan goes 'Independent. Together.'

If you are intimidated by the idea or feel like you don’t have enough time, trust me this may be a misconception. Here are some things for you to think about ..

FAA resident Artist coach Barney Davey has this to say about blogging - "I also hope you are blogging because it is the single best way to develop an email list and pull your collectors, fans, friends and followers closer to you. You can use a blog to show your business and your personality, and snippets of your life to your readers. They don’t care what you had for dinner, but they are interested if you attended a recent gallery opening, took a museum tour, or like listening to Beethoven or Muddy Waters while you work at making your art."

He also offers the tips below found on his website.

Reference link https://artmarketingnews.com/why-artists-should-blog/


Top Ten Reasons Why Artists Should Blog:

1. Help sell your art direct to buyers.
2. Promote awareness and gain interest in your art.
3. Grow your email list.
4. Control your digital brand and reputation.
5. Drive traffic to your website.
6. Open the door to guest blogging.
7. Create links and SEO value for traffic and search engine rankings.
8. Make a positive influence on juried show judges.
9. Introduce your work to gallery owners.
10. Provide content for social media platforms.



If you want to get started and don't know what to say or write, or just want to get a feel for blogs, then I suggest you visit the blog feed on FAA / Pixels and just read some of them and make comments. https://fineartamerica.com/blogs.html

If you want to start using your AW blog, as a premium member, you can add live links and there is also a search bar at the top which is really important for when an art collector visits your website and blog. The FAA / Pixels side at present is text only, so no live links.

Finally, if you go to the sell art online page, it describes blogs as such:

https://fineartamerica.com/sell-art-online.html


"Blogging is a great way to attract the attention of search engines and bring more visitors to your profile and your artwork.
Fine Art America allows you to post an unlimited number of blogs on our site. Each time you post a blog, you'll automatically generate a new webpage which is meticulously designed for high rankings in Google.
If you post regular blogs on the topic of "landscape paintings", for example, Google will eventually realize that your a painter focused on landscape paintings... and over time, you will move up in their search results for that term."


So, if you use the member blogs please comment why and how, and your experiences? If you do not use the member blogs then please ask questions?


FAA / Pixels members, I have started a private discussion thread in the main forum, they are now closed but if you'd like to learn from reading the comments:

Reference link https://pixels.com/showmessages.php?messageid=3875066 ( Private discussion thread, login to FAA first )

More information (also private) https://fineartamerica.com/showmessages.php?messageid=3932920

Enjoy your day!

Frank J Casella,
Photographer and Independent Artist
Blogger on Fine Art America

Among Friends


There is this saying that goes ‘friends are like flowers in the garden of life’, and I think this could not be more truer as such a time as we are living in now. With the lock downs and distancing we have experienced that past few years, there is nothing more comforting than to be Among Friends.

This iPad photograph – Among Friends - I made a few years ago, because I found the lighting to be inviting, and the repetitive subjects and patterns to balance the composition and lead the viewer to the main message – a friend is a person who you know well and who you like a lot, but who is usually not a member of your family.

Sometimes our friends are like family, more so than our own family. Other times friends are those whom we hang out with most of the time, people whom we relate with. More so, a true friend is one whom you can not live without. For these reasons and more, the best way to make a friend is to be one.

If you notice the flowers in this photograph, each is at a different height, and each has petals in a different postilion. A couple flowers have a bug on their petals. All of which to me illustrates our differences and imperfections or humanness, or our vulnerability to outside elements. Yet, they all complement each other in some way. …

But the most powerful element of this moment in time is that each of these flowers are vibrant and beautiful, that even though the soil seems hard and dry, these flowers are full of life. These flowers are a creation of God that is full of joy, hope, and makes you smile.

“Prayer is to our soul what rain is to the soil. Fertilize the soil ever so richly; it will remain barren unless fed by frequent rains.�
~ Saint John Vianney

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God in the World --


You are the hands of God in the world. ....

... Go now and make Him something beautiful.


---

Fast for judging others; feast on Christ dwelling in them

Fast from emphasis on differences; feast on the unity of all life

Fast from words that pollute; feast on phrases that purify

Fast from discontent; feast on gratitude

Fast from anger; feast on patience

Fast from pessimism; feast on optimism

Fast from complaining; feast on appreciation

Fast from negatives; feast on affirmatives

Fast from hostility; feast on non-resistance

Fast from bitterness; feast on forgiveness

Fast from self-concern; feast on compassion for others

Fast from discouragement; feast on hope

Fast from lethargy; feast on enthusiasm

Fast from suspicion; feast on truth

Fast from thoughts that weaken; feast from promises that inspire

Fast from idle gossip; feast on purposeful silence

Fast from problems that overwhelm, feast on prayer that sustains

---


We live in time like never before of spiritual poverty, you don't have to look very far to see all of the confusion in our land. We have many faiths, places of worship, and the Holy Bible at our fingertips, yet we are at war, and in our own homes, anger and division is widespread.

This is why I feel compelled that we all need to work together to bring us back to the fundamentals of the Founding Fathers of our country -- prayer.

To let these words each day absorb into our souls and transform our lives. May it guide us to make Christ the center of our lives even more than now.

Many people do not believe the God loves them. May they see that God is in the world -- through you.



Photo: God In The World - Color art photograph of Catholic relics in hands Copyright 2018 Frank J Casella



Reference Link - https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/god-in-the-world-frank-j-casella.html


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With this photograph - Surrender - Sqaure - A man surrenders his will to God for a better life. To do this, nothing else matters but to pray. When we pray, it is more important to listen than to talk.

In our fast paced world of instant gratification and information at our fingertips it's easy to have impatience.

Impatience is often times associated with anger. We can never make peace with our anger. Anger is caused by hurts and fears in our lives, and when things are not going our way.

On the other hand, when we focus on others and enjoy the beauty of the simple moments, and love people where they are, we see our purpose in life and have more peace.

Likewise, I have learned to have an eternal outlook in life. When we live for eternity we live for others.

If you are a prayerful person, it is important to rest in the Lord for direction. Sometimes the wait may cause impatience, because of not feeling close to God.

When we focus on Jesus, the Father will reveal His presence when we stop looking at self. This is the secret.

God works with us how He wants to work with us -- don't tell him how to do that -- it will often happen as a complete surprise as we surrender our will to Him.

All that is not given is lost. It is through our giving that we are blessed, and our impatience for this world goes away.



'The only thing we take with us when we die, is what we have given away.'

-- Francis Cardinal George




Enjoy your day!

Frank J Casella
Lensmen
frankjcasella.pixels.com



Image Reference Link https://fineartamerica.com/featured/surrender-sqaure-frank-j-casella.html


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This photograph - Dusk Light Spring Magnolia - These budding trees in the springtime forest, illuminated by the end of day dusk light, make the flowers from a magnolia tree pop with beauty against the blue sky backdrop.

This scene reminds me that of all the worries we may collect by the end of the day, the bloom of God's paintbrush shows us how looking at things in a different light that, with His mercy, all will be well.

That our concerns are a moment in time, as day turns to night, and there will be more tomorrows until we see Him in glory.

This picture is from my Same Subject Different Day collection.


Dusk Light Spring Magnolia - Color Photograph Copyright 2020 Frank J Casella - www.frankjcasella.pixels.com


Thank you for reading,

Talk with you again next week!

Frank


'Pictures That Share Hope and God's Love in the World'



Reference Link - https://fineartamerica.com/featured/dusk-light-spring-magnolia-frank-j-casella.html

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This photograph Wives and Husbands really needs no explaination. We see it often at youth sporting activities.

Yet there is a religious element to moments in time like this: The commitment of marriage as instituted by God - how Mom and Dad together support their children, and marriage, while juggling their indepenence as individuals.

Some have called this diversity of view: How man and woman pull from their uniqueness and experiences in their contribution to the family unit, thus to be a gift to each other.

Yet, some others may view this instead as conflict, that is, if you are looking to have your own way. Never mind when you look for the best interest of others, and walk through the door of conflicts to find discovery, you seek to build on what brings you together (and) not what divides / pushes you away.

The only way to get to the other side is through it, with God's help.

With the Catholic apostolate (ministry) that I co-founded, I have observed two keys to a long marriage: The first is forgiveness. The second is to not only be married to someone you can live with, but also to someone whom you can not live without.

Instead, you may find in our culture today, when unmet expectations, and unresolved needs are not met, it can lead to breakdown and divorce, in place of the realization that there are two different people who change over time, and each becomes a different person.

Which brings us back to this picture, Wives and Husbands, how it asks questions, like why are the two people not talking to each other, or not together focused on their child and the event they are attending. Answer: They were talking until the phone rang, and they were in-between games so nothing to watch.

This can bring us to a deeper element to ask what are the distractions in our lives and to the family? What are the elements in our present culture that draw a wedge in the marrage covinnant if we let it? I'm sure this picture may cause you to ask other questions as well.

But the reason I clicked the shutter of the camera is because you see a mom and a dad ... together ... for their child(ren). Their body language hints how they understand each other, while being understanding of each other. They are not on their own agenda, tolerating each other, or at odds?

Because the covenant of marriage begs, through the wedding vows, to bear each others burdens until death.

It is also very unusual to have that fence in front of the bleechers. And I used this element to stop the viewer to focus on the subject of the people, and body language, otherwise it would not be as powerful of a photograph. There is just enough information to let the veiwer know the location or setting to tell the story.

At the same time, the fence might illustrate how some of us feel that marriage is like living in a box, or being stopped by a wall reminding us to what we regretfully committed to. While another may view this wall as to focus on the relationship at hand, because usually if you do not get this one right you bring those behaviors into future relationships even with best intentions.

The great religious paintings and windows in (Catholic) churches illustrate many stories and lessons about life and the Saints. Yet, this picutre to me speaks about how husband and wife - man and woman - work towards the virtues of being saints through their shortcommings in such a time as this - to get their family to Heaven.





Thank you for reading,

Talk with you again next week!

Frank


'Pictures That Share Hope and God's Love in the World'



Reference Link https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/wives-and-husbands-holga-effect-frank-j-casella.html

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Let Youe Light Shine

This photograph of a simple votive candle with cross, is a reminder to light a candle and say a prayer for others and to count our blessings.

There is so much chaos going on in our war torn world, so much anxiety, that small acts of kindness goes a long way.

Writing someone a thank you note, holding the door, making coffee for your spouse, unstack the dishwasher (or load it), talk about what others want even if it's not what interests you, etc.

Put the spotlight on other people and not yourself. Listen to the Holy Spirit to provide the opportunities. Let Christ love through you.

And when you do this, it is through giving to others that we are blessed.






Thank you for reading,

Talk with you again next week!

Frank


'Pictures That Share Hope and God's Love in the World'



Reference Link https://pixels.com/featured/votive-candle-with-cross-frank-j-casella.html

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Today is Ash Wednesday, and the start of Lent. Below is the message that I have been sharing for the past few years. Because, like when you keep reading scripture, it speaks to you differently each time you read it.

May you find new meaning from this as I do each year I read it.

Frank



- Measuringing Up To Jesus -

The other day when I was on Twitter a quote I saw from sales guru hit me: “You become what you think about all day long�. It made me ponder on what I think about every day, which lead me to realize how much my thinking – and lifestyle – has changed over the years.


I used to be more selfish, helping and serving others with the end motive of serving my own needs and ego, and praying for my own needs – talking to God more than listening. St. Francis says [that] it is through giving that we receive, and I took it literal.


Today … when I give of myself I don’t look for what I receive, because the real gift is how God is blessing others through me .. which I may never see. My agenda has become God’s agenda. Said another way, I live my life as a prayer.


If we focus our attention on bad news and gossip (about Christians) we will miss God's incredible, visionary, optimistic purpose for every believer: to grow so much in our faith that we shine like beacons to everyone around us!


God's vision for each church is that we would grow so much in our love for God that we'd love people the way He loves them: unconditionally and passionately. He want's us to be filled up with Christ's grace, truth, and purpose so that everything we do will reflect Him to those around us.


I assure you, the longer you look at Jesus on that Cross, the more He will speak to you about who you are and how you can become more Holy.


The greatest image I have of my late father is how he prayed the rosary, looking at the Cross, each morning in a room with only the window light – just him and God – before leaving for work.


The greatest image my children say they have of me is how I kiss the crucifix each morning as soon as I wake up. What they don’t see is how often I spend just looking at it in holy contemplation.


"If a hypocrite is standing between you and God, it just means the hypocrite is closer to God than you are." -- Zig Ziglar




Thank you for reading,

Talk with you again next week!

Frank


'Pictures That Share Hope and God's Love in the World'


Measuring Up To Jesus - Wood Print by Frank J Casella



Reference Link https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/measuring-up-to-jesus-frank-j-casella.html?product=wood-print

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- Street Photography Artist Group -

Simply put, street photography aims to tell the story everyday life in public places, usually in urban landscapes. It is a form of candid photography, when the person is not aware they are being photographed, which creates more realistic and impacting images. The subject matter tends to be human and relatable, focusing on body language to tell the story.

For example, with this photograph - Red Lights - City of Chicago - of the morning light in downtown Chicago, Illinois, as traffic from both people and cars make their way in the city. Red stop lights and vehicle brake lights, and the movement of the people on the street, bring this photograph an atmosphere of the motion of city life - in the square format.

I recently was asked by the curator of the Street Photography - Artist Group on Pixels / Fine Art America to now run the group. The description for this group reads: ' moments from our lives in public places, and the environment that we have created for ourselves.' I have been a member of this group for some time, submitting my own images to be curated, so now I am the curator.

I never thunk!

I think street photography is an art - both in terms of how you capture the moment, how you move on the streets, and also how the photos look. My On The Street gallery collection for street photography reads: ' Because I carry a camera with me as often as I can, this is a gallery of Street Photography moments that always retains the human element. '

The best street photos are the simple ones. And to make a photo simple is more difficult than making a complicated photo. My photo mentor, John H White, always said to take simple moments that make big impact.

Fine Art Street Photography is not only about the subject, and it is not only about the scene, rather about how to create a compelling image including these elements that will tell a story. Fine Art Street Photography serves to interpret the scene, it adapts it to the vision and intention of the artist.

I feel that in order to make great artistic street photographs, we study more great art. What this means is to not limit yourself to just photos, but study the best art from history. Become inspired by the great sculptures and from great renaissance art, from the surrealists and the impressionists, the great poetry and the great stories, and the great works.

I have included the Street Photography Group in the list of featured artist in my weekly emails. This group falls within my mission of moments in time, and human interaction, that share hope, and the love of God in this world.



Thanks for reading,

Enjoy your day.

Frank J Casella

Image reference link: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/red-lights-city-of-chicago-frank-j-casella.html
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New Hope

He is blessed who lives with his eyes on the Lord, not on the world.

Many times the key factor of a great photograph comes from it having strong composition. Yes, the story is important but, without strong composition the story gets lost I think.

Many times the key factor in having happiness in life comes from your hope. and structure in your life.

" The virtue of hope responds to the aspiration to happiness which God has placed in the heart of every man; it takes up the hopes that inspire men's activities and purifies them so as to order them to the Kingdom of heaven; it keeps man from discouragement; it sustains him during times of abandonment; it opens up his heart in expectation of eternal beatitude. Buoyed up by hope, he is preserved from selfishness and led to the happiness that flows from charity. " CCC 1818

The inspiration for this photograph - Springtime Blossom - came to me a few years ago when I was out for a walk with my wife and dog, and saw this out from the corner of my eye. The story here is that I love how this moment says new life that brings hope. The colors are catchy and a favorite of many.

I used negative space composition, which is a basic, but often overlooked principle of design, that gives the eye a "place to rest," increasing the appeal through subtle means. This together with the square format, makes this suitable for framing with a wider matboard.

This image is a part of my ' Phoneography ' Project that you may know I was doing for 2018, to put through its paces images from a smart phone camera with my over forty-years as professional lensmen. This was made with an iPhone 5s and the Flcikr App camera, and processed also with the Flickr App. (none of wich I still use).

I keep updated my tools when I can and as technology evolves, just as our lives evolve when we see new hope and respond to it. For example, when you are inspired by my photographs on your walls, I call this walls of hope.

The silent power of the love of God is all around us, we just have to condition ourselves to recognize and respond. And the reason is not only for us to grow, but to share it so others too may grow, for that is how God works in the world.

What is God doing through you, are you mindful of it, and how are you sharing it with others?



Thanks for reading,

Enjoy your day.

Frank J Casella

Image reference link: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/springtime-blossom-frank-j-casella.html

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-- Opinions --

This black and white Art Photograph - Fleeting Moment - of a city urban moment in time in Chicago, Illinois.

The train, bike, cars, people wlaking, and bus reminds me about the culture of society, and the number of people and opinions we all have.

All in fleeting moments in time.

Although it is in Chicago, it can be almost any city in the world.

One of the best friends I have had taught me how every person has a right to their own opinion, but not their own facts. The power of democracy of the United States includes dialog and a fair debate. Because there is a difference between facts and opinion.

Yet, today you might say this is threatened a bit, I don't know if it comes from the behavior on legacy social media and just an overflow into the analog world, but it seems more and more that if people do not agree with what others do or say, we walk away from it instead of engagement.

I personally think we are falling away from God and the Ten Commandments, intentional or not.

Also, scriptures like, "The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.�" Mark 12:31.

And, Jesus said to his disciples: "Love one another even as I have loved you." John 13:34

The best explanation that I have found on all of this is from the Catechism of the Catholic Church:

[ 2286 ] Scandal can be provoked by laws or institutions, by fashion or opinion. Therefore, they are guilty of scandal who establish laws or social structures leading to the decline of morals and the corruption of religious practice, or to "social conditions that, intentionally or not, make Christian conduct and obedience to the Commandments difficult and practically impossible." 88 This is also true of business leaders who make rules encouraging fraud, teachers who provoke their children to anger, 89 or manipulators of public opinion who turn it away from moral values.

All this to say, that when you look at this picture, no matter what you print it on, that it may speak to you about how important it is to understand what the culture often rejects – how men and women should relate to one another in complementary ways and learn from the opinions of each other's thoughts and ideas to find the facts.

If we keep looking to the same people and sources every day, we have a limited view of the world around us. But when we engage with others outside our viewpoint, then we gain new understandings. This is what the culture of our society is about.





Thanks for reading,

Enjoy your day.

Frank J Casella

Reference https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/fleeting-moment-frank-j-casella.html

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Struggle

This square photograph I titled Lost In The Fog, a classic black and white of silhouetted trees and branches amungst the foggy morning.

It reminds me how working through our struggles in life can help us to find answers to our problems, and make it all worth it.

What are the difficulties in your life that you struggle with?

All of us go through struggles, and what makes the difference is how we respond to it.

In fact, on a spiritual note, if we did not have struggles we would not need God.

Many times we feel pain in our relationships, in marriage, work, or with friendships.

Some of us worry if we are married to the wrong person.

God gives us encouraging words to find answers:


' We know that God makes everything work for good for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose. '

~ Romans 8:28


A close friend once shared that when we go through struggles it is important to ask ourselves ' is it worth it '.

Because when we walk through that door of struggle or conflict, on the other side there is discovery.

The more you put it off, the more difficult it becomes.

But we can not change others, they have to want to change.

Again, Romans tells us that even in the worst situation, God can work things for our own good and for His own purposes.

.. and make it all worth it.

Even though it may not be what we want or thought.

So the question we then ask, for those of us who believe, is in what ways can God use me or this circumstance to help others?

.. for this is how God works in the world.

The most significant struggle may very well be one that, years latter, we look back as a turning point in our life or relationships.





Thanks for reading,

Enjoy your day.

Frank J Casella

Reference link https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/lost-in-the-fog-frank-j-casella.html

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Flower and Fence - Color Nature Photograph of a single orange flower in nature. Copyright 2011 Frank J Casella


-- Investment --

This photograph I titled ' Flower and Fence ' because of how the beauty of the flower stands out from the rest of the nature along the fence. It reminds me about how we can view life.

In other words ...

When you buy something, it usually means that you are looking at what it cost.

When you invest in something, it usually means you are looking at what it pays.

It is about how you use your time, talent, and treasure.

I can usually tell when someone is buying my Art photographs because they ask ... " This original art won't depreciate will it ? " ... or ... " Will this art increase in value? Is it a good investment ? "

I can usually tell when someone is investing in my Art photographs because they say .. " I love this ! " .. or " This will bring beauty to my home ! ".

There is so much Art in our culture today, that only a small percentage of it moves up (or down) in what you paid for it.

For example, since the invention of the iPhone / Smartphone camera, there have been more pictures made than in the history of photography.

-- go back and read that again --

While it is very possible that my Art, and the artists work that I share in my newsletters, are going to become wildly successful and have the value of their work skyrocket, I do not want collectors to purchase works based on selling point or potential investment value.

There is no guarantee of the future value of any piece of artwork. The value can go up, but it is also possible that it might go down. You have better chances talking to a Stockbroker!

Art can enrich collectors lives in so many ways - acquiring art can be a great adventure. Many people tell me how much my Artwork speaks to them, inspires them, helps them to live one more day. And they say how much what they collect says about them, and is passed down to future generations.

When I was a photojournalist, I made pictures that told stories that pulled at the heart strings and emotion of the viewer. Now that I am an Art photographer, I make my photographs with a higher quality that pulls all the emotion from the subject or scene in the photograph.

Some people purchase a photograph because that one piece speaks to them in some way. Others purchase several of my photographs because they invest in learning more about me and my approach to my subjects and how I present them (one reason why I am a blogger).

Another way to look at 'cost' and 'pay' can be with relationships .. like in marriage ... when two spouses look at what they get from each other and how it cost them, compared to when they look at how it pays to be a gift to each other (more on this in another blog post).

If you invest in Artwork that you love, it will pay dividends to you every day for the rest of your life!






Thanks for reading,

Enjoy your day.

Frank J Casella

Reference link https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/flower-and-fence-frank-j-casella.html

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-- Life Is A Work In Progress by Frank J Casella --



This photograph I titled Life Is A Work In Progress.


Man and machine work to resurface a single neighborhood road in Mid-West America.


Likewise, as we travel the road over the pot holes of life ...


... that it is important to make time to renew body, mind, and Soul.


And, as we search through the darkness looking for the light ...


... it is important to remember that life is a work in progress.








Thanks for reading,

Enjoy your day.

Frank J Casella

Reference link https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/life-is-a-work-in-progress-frank-j-casella.html

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This photograph I titled Through the Years.


I think that if this tree could only talk, the tales it would have to tell. .... look all its structure and growth . … and the twists and turns of the branches.


One purpose of trees is to give us air to breath and are just plain beautiful in every stage .. which makes the world a better place to live.


I think trees, like this, are very symbolic of life,


What did God have in mind when He made this tree?


What did God have in mind when He made you?



Reference link: https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/through-the-years-frank-j-casella.htmll


Thanks for reading,

Enjoy your day.

Frank J Casella



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Messages


With this picture - The Messages In Our Lives - made me think about how we respond to others has a huge impact on the world.

How we treat others makes a huge impact on how they see the world around them.

The messages in our lives shared through experiences and examples, though subtle, speak and teach louder than words ever can.

---

This is also very true with the artist professional network, and by our interacting with hundreds of thousands of artists, photographers, graphic designers, and brand respresentatives who participate in the Fine Art America (FAA) social network each day.

Something you may not know about when you shop on my website (or on Pixels / FAA) is the 'sort' option found at the Shop button on the top by the shopping cart button. Amung the options then on the left side panel you can select are 'Best Sellers', or 'Most Comments', or 'Most Votes', to name a few.

These are the social networking tools of the members, artists, and art collectors on Fine Art America (FAA), as well as those of you who have an account on my website. You can find the comment, like, and fav buttons on any picture page at the top right. Now, the reason I bring this up is because every artist and art collector / buyer uses these features in a different way.

The main thing I will talk about is the Favorites page only found on the FAA / Pixels profiles. Some artists Fav. all the images they upload, creating what I call a redundant Favorites page on their FAA profile .. but, hey, they want you to see their work. Nothing wrong with that, right? Others Fav everything they comment on, still others Fav to bookmark artwork they want to go back to (this I think is mostly collectors/buyers though), to name a few.

The reason many collectors / buyers use their Favorites page is to bookmark art online they can come back to and appreciate, especially when they don't have a use for printing it yet. Also, interior designers and the like I know shop the artist groups for features, and Fav those images they want to come back to .. because these images are ranked by the eyeballs of the group admins many times before they are ranked by the website system.

The ranking system moves images up in the website search, similar to how the Amazon website works, with the popularity of sold images having the highest ranking.

That is the thing about these three otpions - comment, like, and fav - though, when another member other than myself uses them it ranks (my) the work just a tiny bit .. but, as they say, every little bit helps, no? Some of us though, like myself, use these for what they actually do ...

I comment on others artwork when I want to express what I most appreciate about their work. I Like way more images than I fav., because it ranks it the same but does not post it to my Favs page. Finally, I Favorite artwork that I, well, consider a favorite ... I am very select / picky about this.

Why is that you ask?

Because customers like you tell me that when they visit my website, they actually click around a bit to find out more about my artwork or what my artisic vision is. So, since I have been intentional about what I Fav, many have said how much they go on a visual journey with my Favs.

So, as we transition from this past year to another year, I invite you to make a few minutes to go here on a visual journey too.

May these images from independent living artists tell you the story of God's love in this world, and most important, how much more He loves you. Although I Favorite the images that are orginal and unique, distictive, and make a positive difference in the world .. think about how much more God loves you, and how you posess these qualities too .. ask God to show you.


Thanks for reading,

Enjoy your day.

Frank J Casella



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Free Advice

When I made this photograph, it reminded my how I only give free advice. Because there is a lot of it out there, and the advice you pay for may not work out because each person and circumstance is different.

Yes, there is a saying ‘ same problem, different name ’. But you do not need to pay for it I think.

It is more important to buy books or webinars or listen to podcasts or read blogs. Gather information and then compile it into what works best for you.

Growing up, my parents often said that a financial adviser was nothing more than an unemployed insurance agent. Today, I find an number of advisers in many fields whom none of them I have found I can trust to pay money to tell me what to do with my career or my life.

True, selling is about helping, it is not giving advice.

On the flip side, several people ask me for advice and I would never think of charging them for my thoughts. I make my living making pictures, and if my pictures inspire you then, yes, you should buy them. My advice, no. Though I have over thirty five years experience as a photographer.

Likewise, I have several decades involvement with Catholic Men's Ministry. Every month I am either one-on-one with other men, or in a group setting, sharing free ideas and mentoring them about growing in holiness, and how to be the best version of ourselves. Though they may support the apostoalte, I would never think to charge for this. Because the information shared and the impact made is priceless. (I always feel after I walk away they give me much more than I provide them)

Seth Godin does a similar thing. He (says that he) does not charge for advice or consulting. He makes his living as a book author, etc. Matthew Kelly from Dynamic Catholic It seeme does the same.

The words of Jesus are free in the Bible, it is the publishers who sell the book to be in business.

In comparison, I have over the years several spiritual directors. A spiritual director is a person who helps you discern what God is saying to you. This is advice from a person who is in tune with God and the Bible. A spiritual director has never charged me for their advice. Some people go further in to pay for counseling from a spiritual perspective, however.

In choosing his disciples, Jesus said to them " come and see ". By doing this he invited them to develop relationship with Him so, in turn, they could help others. Jesus invites us all to this mission today.

When we provide sound advice to others, especially when they ask for it, then we help each other to make a positive difference in the world.

“ For lack of guidance a people falls; security lies in many counselors �.

- Proverbs 11:14



Thanks for reading, enjoy your day.

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The photograph Acceptance - Black and White illustrates for me how Sunday in the park in Chicago is a lesson on acceptance. Here we see people out for a ‘walk’ on Segways, while others enjoy lunch in a tent at Lake Michigan, and cars move along on Lake Shore Drive. All in a stones throw of Willis (Sears) Tower in the background (a building / community with its own zip code).

In a city the size of Chicago you learn real fast that 'where there are people there are also many issues'.

You also see people living the simple principle of The Golden Rule: all of us long to be accepted - it’s the first and foremost desire of every human heart - and It’s the conscious choice to proclaim to someone, “you matter to me!�




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PRIVATE GALLERY WALL ART

I have created a private gallery, with you, my email list subscribers, in mind. Unique and distinctive imagery either newly created, or newly edited from my archive, using the latest in image processing software.

Click here for these password protected items for viewing by mailing list subscribers only ( join my mailing list at tinyurl.com/fjcart-list ) and to come back bookmark frankjcasella.pixels.com and find the private gallery on the collections area.

Order early to avoid potential holiday shipping delays!

Photo: Bold Colors Down The Trail https://frankjcasella.pixels.com/featured/bold-colors-down-the-trail-frank-j-casella.html





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Dear Loyal Friends,

I wanted to let you know about the benefits of how to save money shopping online from Fine Art America / PIXELS, as well as my Artist Website.

For example, the two largest expenses when buying art online are the framing and the shipping costs. Did you know, when you have your art framed it adds weight and size which causes you more cost in shipping.

As we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving in the United States, and traveling to visit family, things also become busy with Black Friday and the prospect of Christmas shopping.

So be sure to bookmark these resources for reference.

I want you to enjoy my work, or gift it to others, and bring a sense of purpose or meaning to your life each day of the year.


So here here are a few Tips to consider ...


TIP: When buying framed prints be sure to click the link on each picture page size selection for standard sizes. This means that you can save a ton from buying glass and frame in custom sized to the print (unless you really need it), the artwork will then be cropped to fit the standard size.

Note: You can also have fun with cropping the image size, adding a color border (instead of, or in addition to, adding a mat), as well as change the orientation of the image (horizontal, vertical, or square), and view your completed details 'on the wall' illustrations.


TIP: Search for a local artist who creates regional scenes. Buy an art print or poster and send it to a family member or friend who moved away. Look around for other unique, locally-produced or themed gifts. They mean so much more than just another mass-made product. Gift as a way to make a better world.


TIP: To prepare for when Fine Art America / Pixels hosts the free shipping days, though I do not know when they are until hours beforehand, may I suggest you find the items you'd like to purchase and add them to your shopping cart? This way, when the shipping days happen you do not have to search for your items.

Note: Even though Fine Art America has 16 manufacturing centers located in 5 countries., shipping costs keep getting more expensive. Keep in mind your order is automatically routed to the nearest manufacturing center in order to minimize shipping costs and speed up delivery times.


TIP Local peeps, may I suggest that you order prints only unframed? It will then be sent rolled in a tube. You can then bring it to The Great Frame Up in Homedwood, IL. who will assist you with framing and save you a bundle (from shipping) as well.

You can also visit my work on their dedicated site at
this link. Click the link and enter my name - FRANK J CASELLA - in the search box


-- Remember To Shop Local In Home Sweet Homewood! --



With that said, here are some links on the Pixels site to resources so you can start shopping the full product line.



Christmas Greeting Cards by Frank J Casella

Shop the Latest Artist Group Christmas Card Contests

Shop the Artist Groups I Follow

Shop My Featured Photos by the Artist Groups I Follow

Shop My Favorite Artwork By Other Artists Of Pixels

Design Your Own Custom Print Products. Transform your photos into custom wall art, home decor, phone cases, and more!

Limited Time Promotions Canvas Prints Check back every day or two for new promotions.

My Gallery Collections

Word Search My Blog. Example: Christmas, Chicago, Izaak Walton, Crucifix, Trees, Shadows, etc.




Thank you for being my Customer! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, and a blessed and meaningful Christmas Season!

Frank


Frank J Casella Photographs - 'Pictures of Moments In Time and Human Interaction, That Share Hope and God's Love in the World'




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It began as a day of giving thanks and sacrifice for the blessing of the harvest and of the preceding year.

Today we see messages about Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, CyberMonday, and GivingTuesday.

I would like to simply share with you gratitude.

I would like to thank all of you for blessing me with the gift to bring you my God given talents of goodness and hope. Images that Transform, Inspire, Educate, Inform, and Celebrate Life.

This is priceless to me ... and to humanity.

My sincere hope is that my images tell you stories about life that many of you relate to; that inspire and help some of you make it one more day; and that transform your thinking and thus your life.

And the comments you send my way, this touches my heart that you benefit so greatly from my work!

As you break bread with family and friends this Thanksgiving and think too about all you are thankful for, please know that I'll be thinking about each of you, and saying a prayer for you In thankfulness, that our paths have crossed in some way.

Photo: In All Circumstances, Give Thanks Copyright 2017 Frank J Casella




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The Frank J Casella Artistic Photographs Annual Daily Mail

Once again this year, I will be sending out a daily email from Thanksgiving Day, to Christmas Day, through New Years Day. But this time I will be sending from the Sunday Letters mailing list, so enter your address in the sign up form to be sure you're on the list, or not.

These mails will be a quick read with an inspirational picture and caption, as well as the holiday promotion of the day when available, sent on Monday through Saturday each week (for seven weeks). If you already get the Sunday Letter mails there is nothing you need to do to get the annual Daily Mail.

Thank you for your interest in my artistic photographs, for being my customer, and for joining with me together on this journey of holiday inspiration.

Frank




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The Simple Things

I came upon this man and happy dog walking the nature preserve in early Fall, and could not resist how that dog seems to be in his element. Give him a simple stick in nature and life is good.

What are the simple things in your life that make you happy? Our lives as humans can become messy and complex, so much so, that we forget to engage with the simple things that make our life worth living.

God has blessed us with the gift of our lives, and much in this world, to enjoy when kept in right perspective. If we don't, then we miss out on the simple and free that can easily be taken for granted.

What you do with your life is your gift back to God.



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Recently marketing guru Seth Godin shared on his blog bout Art with intent, as he says:



"Art (movies, plays, fiction, paintings, poetry…) exists to create a change. Often, that ’s a change in the viewer, and sometimes, powerful art changes the culture.

Art with no intent can entertain us, and it can also reinforce stereotypes and simply help what is in our world persist.

Art with selfish intent exists to manipulate the viewer to serve the needs of the artist. It doesn ’t often spread, but when it does, it can have a corrosive effect on the world around us.

But art with generous intent is different. It might not address an issue the way you would (in fact, that’s precisely why we need it) and it creates tension as it helps us look at things in a new way.

The plays of Sarah Jones, or a book by Sinclair Lewis or music by Charles Wilson or a movie by Amy Koppelman exist to make us think hard. To think about what we ’ve taken for granted and to think about what might be different if we cared enough.

I ’m not sure it even matters what the artist thought they wanted when they sat down to create the work. The art itself seems to want something, to make a change in the world. And the ability to create art like that belongs to each of us."

~ Seth Godin

So I shared this with the living artists on Fine Art America to see what kind of response it would get here.

So far it is wide ranging, as expected, just like their artwork.

When I read what Seth wrote, I got to thinking what is the best way to describe the intent of my artwork, and this jogged my brain about a couple testimonials I have received over the years:

“ As an active auxiliary bishop of Chicago for twenty five years, I have met scores of photographers, and rate Frank Casella among the best. Frank Casella considers photography not only as a profession in which he must excel, but also as a vocation with a message to deliver to the viewer �.

-The Late Most Rev. Alfred L Abramowicz, Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus

Archdiocese of Chicago

“ The feelings you capture no doubt have the same effect on others once they see your photography �.

– Sharon Gelfano, Marketing Executive


In other words, I employed photography when I was shy as a child to illustrate how I see the world around me, and it has stuck with me ever since. And many people still respond to it, based on each of their own life experiences.

As I like to say, pictures speak in ways that words can not. I've been perfecting over the years how to put the viewer where my subject is - I call this "Pictures People Listen To".



Photo: Orange Leaves - Monet - Copyright 2014 Frank J Casella




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Photo: Fall Colors - Copyright 2019 Frank J Casella

Perfection.

Perfection can get in the way of our success, if we let it. How to keep this in balance is key.

Perfection and fear both lead to procrastination, which then leads to failure. I remember when I went to Egypt, the people I saw making the beautiful rugs always made them with a flaw, because the only thing perfect is God.

Like this photograph, Fall Colors, 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.

As a photographer, mostly, I have learned when there comes a time to 'ship' a photograph as done, otherwise you can keep tweaking it until it finally looks (as we say) over cooked. A lot of this came from fear, and fear will kill more dreams than failure ever will.

A lot of times, too, perfectionism comes from being over confident, or convinced of our own righteousness. It is better, as the Bible says, whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted.



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The Human Element - By Frank J Casella

Many of you know that I have had a camera in my hands since I was a young boy. This is because I was shy as a child, and pictures were the best way to communicate how I viewed the world around me.

Fast forward a decade, during my high school days, it was common for people to tell me how I could photograph the soul of a person.

With this photograph, Where There Is No Love is a prime example. This was just a split moment click of the shutter before the person noticed and looked at me, then it became a totally different picture, but it made me think of this quote:

" Where there is not love, put love. And then you will find love. "

- Saint John of the Cross

Every person who sees this image gets a different meassage or meaning about what it is saying, pulled from their own personal experiences.

When it comes to making photographs of the human element, it is not only important to have the right subject, light, and composition, but to make a connection with the viewer. This is why my mantra for many years was, or has been, to make pictures that people listen to.

I think this is said best by Arturo Mari, Vatican photographer for St. Pope John Paul II, when he says:

" As a photographer, the big secret is entering into the charisma with the person you have in front of you. If you don't feel it, you'll never do it well. "


Note: The sharpness of this image is intended to have a rough edge to the resolution to carry the mood of the subject.




Photo: Where There Is Not Love - Copyright 2017 Frank J. Casella All Rights Reserved

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Brothers - Black and White Art Photograph by Frank J Casella


Mastering Your Craft

One of the comments that I mostly see from art collectors and artist alike is how much they appreciate my black and white work.

Looking at this photograph - Brothers - made me thing about this. I want to believe the reason for this is that I create my digital pictures more slowly as with film in the darkroom, like a painter with canvas and a brush.

Of the over 1/2 million artists and photographers on Fine Art America / Pixels, we all have our own craft to master under this big umbrella called Art. Many photographers and digital artists upload an image a day, where painters might upload one to three images a month.

It all has to do with the medium they are working with, and how they master their craft.

What is your Art?

We all have a purpose to do our part and to make a positive difference in this world. As the saying goes, if money were not in question what would you do or what craft would you master. And I don't just mean with your work, but with your life, and who you are as a person. Whether you are single or married, a parent raising children, or a religious priest or nun, etc.

When you don't allow the noise of this world to distract you from your contribution, People will tell you when it - and you - becomes distinctive and unique.


Photo: Brothers - Copyright 2008 Frank J. Casella All Rights Reserved

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The Wonder of Nature

By Frank J Casella

When I wake up in the morning and go out into the back yard, I hear the sound of nature, as many kinds of birds are calling into the new day.

As with this photograph - Bird Cottage - the wonder of nature, and how things continue to evolve, always amazes me as a sign of God's love in the world.

Nature, in the broadest sense, is the natural, physical, or material world or universe. "Nature" can refer to the phenomena of the physical world, and also to life in general. The study of nature is a large, if not the only, part of science. ~ Wikipedia

There is a new documentary project that illustrates how God is the Artist of nature. You can find more about it at the link below.

The Bible asserts that the universe is a testimony to God's existence and precision. The psalmist had this to say:

The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows his handiwork. Day unto day utters speech, and night unto night reveals knowledge. There is no speech nor language where their voice is not heard (Psalm 19:1-3).


St. Paul the Apostle went on to explain that there is no excuse for failing to worship God, because human beings can perceive His existence when they look at His creation.

Humans were designed to take care of God’s creation. On the other hand, we weren’t meant to abuse the earth, either.

What this means to me is that our nature is to do things in our own strength, but when we do things in the nature of God then we give to others through His love.

Likewise, we can be conditioned to the noise of this would so much that it's hard to be in the silence, and the beauty and sound, of nature for too long. Because without the impulses of the media buzz, and notifications on our phones, we can't think straight.

Thus, it is God's nature to show us His love through the sights and sounds of His beauty, because if God takes care of the birds, how much more is His love or us! So too should be the love we have for our family.

"If you want to change the world, go home and love your family."
-- Saint (Mother) Teresa of Calcutta

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Please make time to watch the leading video .. It will put life in perspective ... and make you smile.

www.angel.com/riot

"For too long nature documentaries, a multi-billion dollar sector in the entertainment industry, have been completely controlled by groups who do not believe in a divine creator. Parents want their children to appreciate the beauty of the earth while still understanding that there is a creator and we are part of his creations. ...

... The Riot and the Dance teaches families just this. You will get the beauty of other incredible nature documentaries while not feeling guilty about living on the earth. ...

... Our vision, with Dr. Gordon Wilson as our host, is to turn The Riot and the Dance into a multi-season series the whole family can enjoy together to learn from the Greatest Artist in the history of history, who is showing His work outside your door right now and forevermore."

Photo: 'Bird Cottage' Copyright 2013 Frank J Casella





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Through The Years - Art By Frank J Casella

"Art is a gift to the future. It nearly always outlives its creator who used it as a means of leaving a mark that says, “I was here and I saw the world this way.� "

— Barney Davey, Art Marketing Consultant


This photograph - Through The Years - was recently featured by and artist group on Fine Art America. The curator mentioned to me how that wagon wheel must be over one hundred years old. I replied that the people lived in that house at least eighy years, and that must have been when motor cars started become basic needs.

When I made this picture it was to capture in this moment from the moments over time. That wagon wheel to me just added to the asthetics of the subject. Yet another person picked up on something I didn't. Photography does just that ...

This past Sunday I was sitting on the front porch of my house looking at all the other houses down the street, snapshots kept replaying into my head how though the houses have not changed that much, but how the people living in them have changed. Either they have moved, or gotten older and the kids are now off on their own, or there are new kids from the new families.

There are a lot of things it seems going on in our world right now like never before. It can distract us from noticing the simple moments and sort out what is important. This is one reason I tell other photographers to choose what works best for you and stop worrying about what other people think. Every person is going to pick up something different based on their world view and life experiences.


"For some, being an artist defines them. It’s not a matter of how much success and sales they make. It is about seeing the world through the eyes of an artist and interpreting what they see. They know the world will not end if they don’t sell anything now or ever. It’s not that they don’t want to sell their art, it’s a matter of having the skills and desire to make it happen."

-- Barney Davey, Art Marketing Consultant


There are more pictures made now with smart phones than have been made in the history of photography. How we use this medium determines the message we convey to the viewer about today. Because today will be yesterday ... tomorrow.




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In this photograph - Evening Cloud Show - Soft Effect - The whirling clouds mixed with the golden hour evening sunlight make for a wonderful show in the blue sky.


It is obvious that one of the reasons God created weather and clouds is to bring beauty to our lives.


This reminds me of The Golden Rule, and that famous painting by Norman Rockwell. I have personally studied Rockwell during my college days preparing for my photography career, and one of the main themes throughout his paintings is that Rockwell illustrated the ideals of what life should be like, or what he thinks it should be.


Rockwell said of his painting, " I’d been reading up on comparative religion. The thing is that all major religions have the Golden Rule in Common. “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.� Not always the same words but the same meaning. "


So, when Pope Francis visited the United States in September 2015, one of the first things he said was to practice The Golden Rule.


He said: " Let us remember the Golden Rule: “ Do unto others as you would have them do unto you � ( Mt 7:12 ). ....

.... This Rule points us in a clear direction. Let us treat others with the same passion and compassion with which we want to be treated. Let us seek for others the same possibilities which we seek for ourselves. ....

.... Let us help others to grow, as we would like to be helped ourselves. In a word, if we want security, let us give security; if we want life, let us give life; if we want opportunities, let us provide opportunities. The yardstick we use for others will be the yardstick which time will use for us. "



What does The Golden Rule mean to you?


Are you struggling through life asking yourself why things aren't the way they should be?


Did you know now that a principle of the Golden Rule is when we have a need to turn and help others? ... to be that need.


Have you considered that sometimes when we see a need that is God speaking to us to do something about it?


Transition our being dependent to being dependable. Transform our good intentions into right-action.


That is, through helping others ... reading and then doing what the Bible asks of us .... we receive more in life than we could ever give.


That, like this photograph, Evening Cloud Show is the way God illustrates hope and His love for you and this world.




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In this picture - Illuminated Branches - Square - the golden hour sunlight illuminates bare Fall tree branches against the blue sky. When you remove the leaves from this late Autumn tree, you then see inside to the patterns of the branches.

As you may know, I took the month of August 2021 to mostly stay offline because God, through the Holy Spirit, impressed on me to do this. When you give God the place to speak, He has a lot to say.

So I went into the month expecting to hear profound directions from God, but as the month was coming to an end I was getting frustrated as I had nothing profound to point to. However, when I transferred my unmet expectations into meeting God where He was at work through me, then things started to bloom.

God showed me the importance of what I am doing with pictures and words, and how I need to not take this for granted but, rather, be more bold and more sincere in my work being distinctive and unique. People need pictures, through works of Art, that are examples of hope and God’s love in the world.

I remember seeing the late Zig Ziglar at a conference when he asked the question “Are you a meaningful specific, or a wandering generality�.

When we go through the daily or weekly grind, as important as it may be, sometimes getting away from it can show us how that can be a sort of distraction from going deep with our own thoughts. That we can look to the world around us for answers when they are really deep down inside of us if we dare to look there.

With each new picture going forward you will see what I’m talking about.



Thank you very much!

Frank




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The Fine Art America Billboard Contest 2021

Fine Art America ( FAA ) is picking twenty winners to have their artwork featured on billboards throughout the United States!

Each billboard will feature a Fine Art America logo, one of their taglines, an incredible image from one of their artists, the title of the image, and the name of the artist or the artist 's preferred social media handle.

The billboards will be positioned in various cities throughout the United States ( e.g. Chicago, Atlanta, Los Angeles, etc. ) and will remain visible for at least one month, each, throughout the fall and winter of 2021.

Each of the tree ( 3 ) photographs below needs 100 votes to qualify ...

.... 5 percent of you reading this invte can get this done right away!


Please help, all you have to do is visit the links below, login, and then cast your vote.


Blue Chicago Blizzard
https://fineartamerica.com/contests/billboard-contest-2021.html?tab=vote&artworkid=6324361


Dog Walking City of Chicago https://fineartamerica.com/contests/billboard-contest-2021.html?tab=vote&artworkid=17609944


Favorite Jeans
https://fineartamerica.com/contests/billboard-contest-2021.html?tab=vote&artworkid=24249943



Thank you very much!

Frank




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Frank J Casella's Email address is writeme [ at ] frankjcasella.com. To find out more about Frank J Casella visit his online profile at frankjcasella.crevado.com

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- People and Skyscrapers -

This photograph - People and Skyscrapers - makes me think how in life, like skyscrapers, we are created, serve our purpose, then move out of the way for the next era.

Because we are humans, though, we have the benefit of absorbing the beauty of the buildings we create.

Some buildings last longer than we do.

Though, if we play our cards right, the impact we make while we are alive can last for generations .... longer than buildings.

Life is God's gift to us, what we do with our lives is our gift to God.




Enjoy your day, you won't get it back,

Frank


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Frank J Casella's Email address is writeme [ at ] frankjcasella.com. To find out more about Frank J Casella visit his online profile at frankjcasella.crevado.com

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Diversity of View

There is much talk in our culture today about diversity. However, I would like to take a look at this word from the viewpoint called diversity of view. This in my opinion is when two or more people in a relationship consider each others viewpoints when communicating.

Understanding the viewpoints and expectations of others is the gateway to a thriving friendship, work environment, and most importantly a marriage or family life. One of the best friends I ever had often reminded me how every person has a right to their own opinion, but not their own facts.

This photograph - Magnificent Mile Chicago - made me think about this because of all the activity going on in this scene, and all the diverse subjects like the buildings and the vehicles, that banner, and look at all those people!

Come to think of it, one of the community aspects of Fine Art America is the Contests. There are not only a diverse number of subjects for the Contests, but the artwork submitted goes in very diverse directions. This is a great example of the diversity of view that I am talking about here, not to mention the diverse interpretations each viewer sees from each work of art.

Similar to the Artist Groups, there are approximately 50 active Contests on the Fine Art America website on any given day joining hundreds of thousands of artists, photographers, and graphic designers from all over the world who compete in the daily art competitions.

You can find here the contests that I am hosting or participating in (when you login), and you can find here all the contests on the website. Likewise, when you visit any Artist Group there is a Contest tab on the homepage.






Enjoy your day, you won't get it back,

Frank


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Walking

Why walking is the best form of health activity for a long life.


This photograph, Autumn Trees Blue Sky, reminds me of when I was out with our late dog, Buddy, for a walk, a neighbor asked how he is doing. I said " Buddy is very old, but he is still alive because we walk him everyday '. As I left to continue the walk I occurred to me what I just said ... to be true.

Walking is good for our heath, and many of us have issues with our body because we are not as active as people were years ago. For example, after I lived through several car accidents, I eventually ended up with a spine doctor (known as a NUCCA Practitioner) who educated me that - how - we sit at our desks all day and not walk to and from work, because of modern transportation, we have back issues.

In the same way that when I read scripture from the Bible about people traveling, how much of the time they were walking, and I often wonder how much more healthy they might have been.

Which brings to mind, a good cure for this sit at the desk all day thing, how I live about two blocks from a major railroad training center, and like clock work each day people in small groups start walking up and down the sidewalk between 11am and 3pm. One day I asked one of them what this is all about, and they informed me they have what is known as 'street meetings', where they use the sidewalk instead of the conference room.

About five years ago I lost around 40 lbs. in a few short months. I did it with a program known as Light Weigh, where the emphasis is not on calories or carbs, but rather control of portions, and lots of walking. So I could eat whatever I wanted, just in the right portions, and just keep walking ... and this continues to work for me (as long as I stay on the program).

So, whenever I see people talking about doing all the other things to lose weight, I tell myself the most basic thing they can start with is a good walking habit. I also find that walking helps me to listen to my own thoughts, and to notice the world (or neighborhood) around me .. it is also the source of many of my pictures.

This is why I believe that walking is the best form of health activity for a long life.





Enjoy your day, you won't get it back,

Frank


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As I was walking to morning Mass recently thinking about how to talk about the topic for this post, I saw a dog who was being walked pee on a hydrant, and right behind it another dog came to pee on that same hydrant.


So for this post, I am going to talk about walking dogs and how that relates to E-mail.


It also made me think about the picture Dog Walking City of Chicago. The back story is my youngest son, back when he was in junior high, asked me to show him around the City of Chicago. While there, he asked to see Buckingham Fountain. I told him it is too early in the season to see the water. He said to me, " lets go anyways, there might be something else to see ". He was right!


Some of you know how serious I am about owning a dog, and that I am just as serious about e-mail. In fact, all of my dogs have been rescues, because when you lead them in love they know the difference. And, E-mail is the best communications tool, especially for busy people, when you keep it simple.


If you have been reading my articles for some time, you know I believe that training a dog is not so much about dog obedience, but more about who is leading at the end of the leash. That when you take your dog for walks everyday, and maintain eye contact with them, it establishes how the dog behaves at home without the leash ... really.


For example, when you send your dog messages that you are the first to go through the door, to walk across the street, and reward him with affirmation, he will respond positively that you have his lead, or you are his Alpha. Likewise, dogs do the same thing with each other, they send messages to each other which I have come to know as ' P-mail '.


If you do an internet search for ' dogs pmail ' you will find a number of articles. A dogs pee can tell another dog how they feel, if they are male or female, looking for love / in heat, how old they are, and if they are dominant temperament, passive, or the Alpha dog, to name a few. The thing I find interesting is that all (dogs) are welcome, they all find the trees, or other surfaces, that interests them most.


Likewise, with e-mail lists I am a firm believer in having one subscriber list, as I have shared with you before, and then you just read from what interests you the most from those mails. Also, just as dogs are open to each other, E-mail lists, unlike social media, is open to everyone and it does not matter what platform or E-mail service you use. You choose what newsletters you wish to follow and plug in your E-mail address and they all show up in your E-mail box.


There are more and more organizations who are going back to sending several subjects or topics to one list, the 'old' way, instead of having a separate list for each topic or group. What happens when I subscribe is that I treat this like a dog, when I get mails in my inbox and find in it a topic of interest I read it, and if it is of no interest I just walk on by. All that is important is that the messages get delivered to my inbox, and then I decide what to read or not. Often times I will read a topic that I normally would not have subscribed to.


By the way, there is a saying that you should treat life like a dog: eat it, hump it, or pea on it and walk away ... I digress ...


I think the reasons for pointing out the single list movement, is there is too much automation in the present email service providers, and it is getting very confusing and expensive because of it. I would prefer they concentrate more on getting the messages delivered to the subscribers inbox, instead of going to the junk folder or promotions tab - an ongoing challenge with all the constant improvements in E-mail marketing and coding. Very few I find do this right.


So the idea for this post is, the next time you take your dog for a walk to let them take their time sniffing and peeing, because now you know they are reading the buffet of messages and then messaging each other. And the next time you subscribe to a newsletter, try to subscribe to the basic list concept or don't join the list ... otherwise your inbox will clog up ... because now you know the basic usually works like a social media feed with all the segments that you click to follow - you're not missing out, really.


Not a highly important topic today in the big-picture of things, but important to know about if you are a busy person who using E-mail a lot ... or own a dog.




Enjoy your day, you won't get it back,

Frank


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When I meet with people, I often ask them to tell me about a person in their life who brought them the most hope. More often than not they share with me about the person in their life who suffered the most. This goes to say, the light shines brightest in the darkness of the night.

Free Bird And Sunset Clouds - That is what I thought of when I caught this bird in flight, darting through the rainy storm clouds at sunset.

Rainy days tend to be gloomy. And you can’t appreciate the beauty of a sunny day without experiencing those rainy days. Especially on those days the sun rays burst through the clouds and illuminate.

This always reminds me that when we have the rainy and gloomy days, to (try to) be intentional about making it sunny with my personality and smile with those I meet ... and to have hope.

Likewise, in life we have many struggles, shortcomings, and allow too many distractions. How we respond to each of these makes all the difference in the world. As the saying goes " when you are sick there is only one thing important."

“Small things done with great love can change the world� - Saint (Mother) Teresa



Enjoy your day, you won't get it back,

Frank


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Mentor

Have you found that we can't make it through life without a mentor, or several?

And, then, to be lucky enough to be given the privilege to mentor others.

Let's talk about it ...


The Spirit Of Life by Frank J Casella -

This picture is one from many mornings spent shooting Chicago sunrise with my photo mentor, John H. White, a Pulitzer Prize winning photojournalist.

His mantra is "Keep In Flight".

To spread your wings on your dreams and do it. ... to share the "Light"

Back in the day, when this picture was made, it was common for one to follow their passion. Now days, it is common to hear that skills trump passion in your quest for the work you love. To find what your true skills are, and become passionate about that.

Because that is what pays the bills, and many have found that following your passion did not pan out. That the best way to find your skills and develop them was to be mentored, otherwise you don't know if you're correctly following the right path, and then doing that path correctly.

Every time that I met with John H. White, he inspired me to write these thoughts in what he called my idea book (I still use one today). One of those thoughts was 'preparation is the key to opportunity'. This was another way to say find your skills and become passionate about that. John shared with me how many mentors he has had, and this inspired me to also find mentors in all that I do.

For example, when I became the executive director of my local Chamber of Commerce, I immediately found members to consult as mentors for my position. I learned from growing up in a family business that if you don't know how to do something, you find someone who does to mentor you, or hire them to do it.

This is the concept with the Catholic Men's Apostolate that I co-founded, and is also the direction I have taken with my art photography on Fine Art America with other photographers and artists. In both respects, I have learned much from them and, in turn, their feedback says they have learned much from me .. .

As Rabbi Daniel Lappin says: "Look for the widest impact; find how you can serve the most people in the most profound way, then learn to be passionate about that".


Enjoy your day, you won't get it back,

Frank


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This photograph of a moment in time reminds me of how powerful a storm can be, and the weight from life on my shoulders.

But then, I remind myself that it is through the storms of life that makes me, and all of us, a stronger person.

Every successful person, whether a founder of a company, a Catholic Saint, a single parent, or the the person who's made the greatest impact on you even if you have not met them but would like to someday, have learned through their struggles.


If you learn from defeat,

you haven’t really lost.

~Zig Ziglar


When we go through storms, in life or with the weather, it's important for those of us who believe in God's love in the world to remember to not so much talk to God about our storms, but rather to talk to the storm about our God. I can tell you that, in His time, and in His will, you will see things shift before your eyes.

Just like the picture above, all the things going on at the surface will burn off and rise up into the heavens. .... God will take it from us ... and bring us through it ... but we have to give it to Him first.

Yes, easier said than done ... The good news is the more you let go, the easier it gets. ... then the more God asks of us. It's ongoing, and we get more strong through it.



Enjoy your day, you won't get it back,
Frank



Storm Cloud Beauty - Landscape Art Photograph Copyright 2020 Frank J Casella

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Like most others during this worldwide pandemic, I've spent much time in online video chats, especially with the Catholic Men's Apostolate that I co-founded. In fact, I'm finding with the guy's to have a more meaningful discussion with just an audio phone conference, without the added video.

Many of the men indicate - whether they are married or single - that after this pandemic is over the one thing they will keep doing is be less busy, and to make the time to reach out more and help others in need.

It's technically called "the law of the harvest," but we commonly say "what goes around comes around" to the law of reaping what we sow.


"Blessed the one concerned for the poor; on a day of misfortune, the LORD delivers him."

~ Psalm 41:2

In this verse, though, the law of the harvest takes on a different twist. When we give to someone who is poor, that person can't pay us back, but blessings seem to come our way from out of the blue. It's God. He's the One who sees what we've done and takes care of us in return. Jesus said that it's no big deal to give to those who can give back to us (see Luke 14:12-14). The really big deal is to give to those who can't repay us.

It's true, when we're angry and snap at people, they often snap back at us. But when we help someone, the one we helped sometimes comes to our rescue when we are in need.


" God's boomerang of blessing occurs when we do something for someone else who can do absolutely nothing for us in return."

~ Ike Reighard



Enjoy your day, you won't get it back,
Frank



Tenderness Black and White Art Photograph Copyright 2014 Frank J Casella

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(Note: This is an update of a post from September 2018)

I've been thinking about this for almost a year, when the blogging site Tumblr did a house cleaning towards the end of 2018 of all the porn on their site. This was very surprising by many, because porn was mostly what it's reputation was known for, in addition to being the place for art and photography. However, I could clearly see how this porn content was keeping the site, like many others, from being profitable and from serving a wider audience.

It surprisingly has been almost twenty years since I started to share my photographs online, and in recent years it has become more difficult to find a platform that does not want to be all things to everyone. Instead, they use the word tolerance which they really don't mean at all. Let me briefly explain.

So the way they did it I think was right, they drew the hard line with these brilliant words: "As a global platform for creativity and self-expression, Tumblr is deeply committed to supporting and protecting freedom of speech. At the same time, we draw lines around a few narrowly defined but deeply important categories of content and behavior that jeopardize our users, threaten our infrastructure, and damage our community."

That last sentence is what these sites are all about: building community and keeping in touch with like minded people from around the globe. This is easier said than done, and Tumblr had been struggling for several years and through a few owners, the latest being Verizon. They (Verizon), short of the long, fell into some legal issues with regards to the porn and children, and thus was looking to sell the site, so I sensed they realized they had to do something to find a buyer - remove the porn.

As of next week the company who owns WordPress.com will be the new owner of Tumblr, and in my opinion I don't think this would happen with all the porn on the site. In fact, they even say that it's not coming back. If a site wants to host this kind of content, it is best that it do only that. More on this in a moment.

Now the reason I saw this coming, was because back a few years ago when I was the moderator for the artist groups on the worlds larges art site, the photographers who created what is known as erotic art would always push the boundaries ... the truth is that erotic, or what is sometimes called Boudoir photography, is really just porn. Some call it soft porn, but there is no soft about it. This constant pushback is one of the reasons I left my position as the groups moderator.

So there are very few sites, like Tumblr, who say there are plenty of other sites that host this content, go there. And they are right. If you do an internet search for erotic you will find pages of sites. The definition is: "Eroticism is a quality that causes sexual feelings, as well as a philosophical contemplation concerning the aesthetics of sexual desire, sensuality and romantic love. That quality may be found in any form of artwork, including painting, sculpture, photography, drama, film, music or literature. It may also be found in advertising. The term may also refer to a state of sexual arousal or anticipation of such – an insistent sexual impulse, desire, or pattern of thoughts. As French novelist Honoré de Balzac stated, eroticism is dependent not just upon an individual's sexual morality, but also the culture and time in which an individual resides.

So let me make this more digestible. I believe there is a place here for glamour photography, with their clothes on, as God made 'man' to appreciate the beauty of the human body. But here is the thing: most of the erotic photos are of women, with their clothes off or at least see through, and the photographers I have known who make these images view her as an object of perfection, and not as a person - they can't stop getting enough of it, and often fall into health issues. Plus, this causes an illness of epidemic proportions with the viewers of this content, mostly because of the suggestive poses and the subject matter.

So, I have been told that I am not 'normal' when I share on these sites that when I see a picture of a woman with this erotic art that comes through my feed, how I see her as another man's daughter. She is a person with value who deserves more dignity than the lies she is being subjected to. In a sentence, and to be more harsh, this causes everyone else in the community eye's to sin.

So, again, when I start to speak up about this, I'm asked to be more tolerant (or this is what they think they mean without saying the word). The definition of toleration is: "Toleration is the acceptance of an action, object, or person which one dislikes or disagrees with, where one is in a position to disallow it but chooses not to."

But this is not what they mean, as there is a new meaning. The real goal here with the new meaning of tolerance is not acceptance but submission. It's not about having to "get along" or tolerate quietly. You must approve. It is known as The 'Gospel' of Tolerance.

I like how this article says it: "Well here's a radical piece of truth for you: tolerance is not a virtue. It's not a moral victory to acquiesce to evil. .....
"We need to remember that tolerance is not a Christian virtue. Charity, justice, mercy, prudence, honesty -- these are Christian virtues. And obviously, in a diverse community, tolerance is an important working principle. But it's never an end in itself. In fact, tolerating grave evil within a society is itself a form of serious evil."
- Archbishop Chaput
....It used to be that we could hate the sin and love the sinner, but the problem is now we're not allowed to hate the sin anymore! We have to love the sin, celebrate the sin, and above all, stop calling it sin!"

So now there are some photo sites who are saying "no pornography", but they are allowing nudes and erotic art, and they are filtering it away from the eyes of children. Yes, you read that right. In other words, as an adult a man should not see a woman without clothes on, unless it is his wife and in the marriage bed, and they excuse this truth by saying it is protecting children.

Likewise, the art site I worked with allows artistic nudes and works to remove the rest I just talked about, yet they still experience the load this subject puts on the entire community, as members come on the discussion forum to address it. This is why these photography sites need to follow the lead of sites like Tumblr and protect their own community.

And here is the interesting thing I have noticed, on Tumblr the blogs which had the porn either left or the women and men put their clothes back on. The site seems to be doing fine, and now is owned by the largest web tool development company that helps connect publishers to communities around the world.




Enjoy your day, you won't get it back,
Frank



Tolerance Square Color Photograph Copyright 2019 Frank J Casella

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Some people seem to be smart, as in intelligent, bright, or knowledgeable, and others not. What makes, or causes, the difference?

Someone asked how I come up with my topic for each blog post. Well, basically, I wake up in the morning and spend much quiet time, not to allow outside influences, and discern what is the most pressing thought or issue on my mind from the past week.

Today that happened to be about smarts. That is, I have come to realize how often people tell me how smart or intelligent I am. Or I find out others have said this about me. This troubles me a great deal, because I don't believe anyone is really smart, it is just simply how we give to and treat others.

For example, in the business world I find many people make decisions based on how much providing their service or product costs them, or how much money they make from a business relationship.

The people who are smart understand by investing in these opportunities through what benefits others will always come back with more opportunity. Not always direct business, but sometimes referrals, or some other interaction.

It's the basic principles of following what the Bible says about money, and the Ten Commandments, with a sprinkling of experiences and practicing integrity. Sometimes I've had to make business decisions that looked as if it, or I, was failing. But the decision was based on what most benefits others in the matter.

Sometimes months or years later I learn how my decisions like this really benefited others, other times I have confirmed how my decisions didn't work at all, even though I had to struggle. And struggle is the key, because you don't get wisdom without struggling through learning from experience.

Same goes for the struggle to develop the habits of reading the Bible daily, or seeking from a mentor and then taking action. Jesus struggled so that we could have Salvation, being submissive to God.

Books don't make you smart, until it is how you give that knowledge to others that makes them see your wisdom. It's not smart to keep that wisdom to yourself.

There are certain areas in business that I am not very good, and I found this out by trial and mostly error. So I decided that I would only do the things that I am highly skilled at, and turn to others who are highly skilled in the things I am not. Other times this taught me how I can be very good at something I didn't think I was good at.

So when you do only the things that God has gifted you with, is the smart thing to do. It is learning through our mistakes that we're able to see the 'red flags' in situations, and respond to them more intelligently in this way.

So, again, this is the message for today: That to be considered to have smarts means, to me, that you give from your best self, skills, experiences, and following the Bible, in a way that makes a positive impact on others and in the world.


Enjoy your day, you won't get it back,
Frank



Complimentary Medicine Black and White Documentary Photograph Copyright 2014 Frank J Casella

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Remembering the Brave

Memorial Day is the perfect way to say “thank you� to those brave people, and the fallen, both in the armed forces and in our personal lives, who have given us their all.
It’s not all about celebrating with the cook-out today, take a moment to say a prayer and remember what we all take for granted.



Enjoy your day, you won't get it back,
Frank



Remembering The Brave Color Square Documentary Photograph Copyright 2008 Frank J Casella

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Some people I find own a Christian business. But is it really, or in name only?

There are some people I find who say they own a Christian business, yet how they do things makes me wonder if this is so. And there are others who are not Christian, and the service they provide you'd think they were Christian owned.

This is similar to how some people have a heart for God, and others who have Christ in their hearts.

So, have you noticed as I have, how there is a difference between a Christian who happens to own a business, and a business that is Christian?

In other words, if you're going to run your business on Christian principles, then study what that is and how it makes you different. Like, about thirty years a go I went through the one-week seminar by Larry Burkett known as "Business by the Book".

I also belonged to a Christian business men's forum, of a hand-full of guys who discussed the opportunities they were facing, and how does Jesus tell us to do these from the Bible. This program has evolved and can be found at crownbiz.org.

This all reminds me how the late business guru Peter F. Druker says, something like, “A mission statement has to be operational, otherwise it’s just good intentions. A mission statement has to focus on what the institution really tries to do and then do it so that everybody in the organization can say, This is my contribution to the goal�

“But whoever lives the truth comes to the light, so that his works may be clearly seen as done in God.� - John 3:21



Enjoy your day, you won't get it back,
Frank



Treetop Sunrise - Color Color Square Landscape Photograph Copyright 2020 Frank J Casella

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

As you may know, the present Holy Father encourages the world to adopt “simpler lifestyles� because of climate change. I agree that we should simplify our lives, but not for the reasons Pope Francis says.

There has been a lot of talk, even from the pope, about global warming. How some say the climate change is in a state of emergency, and how others have a different opinion.Though both sides of the camp agree that the earth is warming up, and that it is best to be nice to it, global warming or not.

As much as all of this is important, I think the state of emergency in America is not as much about the climate of our environment, but more about the climate of our lives. We need to invest more time in the silence of listening to our own voice instead of others, say, on social media and from the news media and the like, and being an positive example to others in our lives.

More specifically, American's need to all do a better job at embracing the U.S. Constitution and the Ten Commandments. Many people today in our culture have made themselves their own God. And if you watch the news or social media with a keen eye, you will see there are movements like pro-abortion, gay pride, or gun control to name a few, who are just a small group of the masses making it look like everyone agrees. It goes back to the saying the squeaky wheel gets the grease.

The solution I think is how we often place people and things before God, often without realizing it. We put our own happiness into the hands of other people – our spouse, our friends, or our children, or co-workers, the government. Yet, this always falls flat because another person can never fulfill the deepest desires of our hearts. No matter how much you love your spouse or children. When we have God at the center of our lives and every relationship, those human relationships will be right-ordered and bring even more joy to our lives.

A priest I know said that he often wil tell couples who are preparing for marriage, “Your future spouse cannot fulfill your deepest desires. Only God can.� Put God first in your individual lives and in your marriage and then your love will be taken to a new level. As each of you grows closer to Jesus, you will grow closer to one another.

If you talk to the people in prison ministry, they will tell you most inmates, and mass shooters, come from a home where they didn't have a father as a positive influence in their lives. Too many of us depend on the government to solve our problems, like creating a law so everyone can have or not have a gun, instead of doing the deep work of loving through example those in our lives on how to do the right thing. Instead we have sports figures creating confusion about how to (not) respect the American flag or kneeling before the Cross.

The fiber of our country, and the Constitution, is to embrace the Judeo - Christian beliefs. When we choose to not rule out the Ten Commandments, by living them, all else will fall into place. Yes we can have freedom of religion, after we don't rule out the beliefs that founded this country. Again, the reason everything is falling apart is because the ones making all the noise lack structure, and don't respect the structure already in place.

As much as you hear about the latest scandal in the Catholic church, people are flocking to the church all over the world because they lack structure in their lives. The Catholic Mass and the Catholic Sacraments provide structure. One priest abuse is too many, but you would think the whole church is full of abusive priests, when it is a small, small group. I would suspect about the same percentage of parents who abuse their own children.

This all goes back to how we need to have a heart for others before ourselves, and to seek the causes of the problems in our in our own lives and work to correct it. We need a return to making prayer, and dependence on God, as the foundation of our being. If you talk with people who work in hospice or cancer, they will attest to the positive difference, and healing experience, from people who have prayer in their lives.

Let us start by praying for our country every morning when we wake up to a new day, please pray for me, and know that I am praying for all of you.

Side Note: My letter today is a bit longer than usual, so sorry for the rant. I just think this needs to be said. This is my opinion, and I don't mean that I have all the answers.



Enjoy your day, you won't get it back,
Frank



Autumn Leaves and Raindrops Color Square Photo Copyright 2019 Frank J Casella

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

There is something abstract about shadows, often unnoticed, yet somehow bring clarity to life.

Often times I see these shadows in my backyard but don't make the time to look at their shapes, or where they come from and what causes them. Yet their patterns bring a sense of depth and nostalgia when I recall how this Ice on the driveway may have looked without them years ago ....

In the workplace today you might find an event called a shadow day, this is where an employee would bring their child or other family member to work, or someone else in the same company, for the purpose of following (or in their shadow) for a day in the life of that job. This got me to thinking about the shadow my parents left on me, and the shadow my wife and I leave on our children.

More specific, last time while in church I started to daydream seeing my funeral in that church, and my casket in the center isle where my parent's and brother, and other distant family members, have been. Then I glanced up at the stained glass window my family donated to the church, and said a prayer for them to intercede for us still around.

Looking at the parishioners in the pews below, how the parents of my classmates are getting old and frail, and how the children of my classmates are now out of college and getting married .. or already have their own children. How that church has been a shadow onto all of these lives.

So the next time you take a walk through your back yard, or the park, take notice of the shadows from the trees, their shapes and patterns. May they be a reminder of the patterns and directions of our lives. How, as the trees grow over the decades, their branches develop and form in many directions but still remain rooted with the (family) tree.



Enjoy your day, you won't get it back,
Frank



Sunlight Shadows On Ice - Abstract Copyright 2016 Frank J Casella - Ice patters on black pavement juxtaposed with shadow patterns from the morning sunlight. Although this may look difficult to walk on, it is something beautiful to look at. Likewise, the challenges or struggles we face in life can strengthen us, when we know that we are prayerfully in God's love.

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

Our culture today is filled with much activity and busyness. How can we make our time constructive, so that life doesn't pass before us to fast?

I wasn't planning to share a sky picture today, but I found this picture in my archives from one morning when I went out with Buddy the dog at sunrise this is what we found. It seems we get great sky formations over the lake in the wetlands preserve behind my house. The layers here reminds me of all the activity in our culture, and the layers that we work through.

To start with, the treadmill of social media feeds has us occupied with Likes and comments that just ends up being just wasted activity. What I mean is it's said that if you refrain from this activity long enough, and replace it with doing something else off-line, that you will wonder why you spent so much time on that treadmill.

We also get involved in busy activity with others based on our world view, and sometimes not so productive either. Not often do I see others ask how does God see this situation. We do most things based on how we see it, myself included at times. Such as I was on email with a business colleague, and suggested when she said how nice the weather is looking through the window, to spend that time with her own thoughts.

Afterward I got to thinking how much does her employer allow her to do this without staying on top of her work ... yet it is the activity and busyness without 'stealing time' for a moment that keeps us from being at our full productivity.

Back to the picture, from the time of the first light until the sun rose up into the clouds and all the beautiful color was gone, was about thirty minutes. Yet watching this I asked myself how many of us make this short time often to enjoy it? When we do life becomes more constructive. Because without it we are just living a life instead of making a difference, starting with ourselves.

So after reading this, I hope you take the time to ask yourself often "is what I'm doing constructive to make a difference, or busy activity of just living a life".




Enjoy your day, you won't get it back,
Frank



Lines In The Morning Sky by Frank J Casella Copyright 2019 Frank J Casella

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

When I saw this birdbath today, I not only noticed the textures and colors, but also thought about how birds are in community. A birdbath is like the community swimming pool. If you will.

With social media relevant today, why does it seem so many people say they are lonely? It is because our bodies are designed to have interaction with each other, to laugh with and touch each other. The power if a smile is priceless. Yet, there is so much of our society that works towards individualism, pulling us apart.

For example at my church here are a number of interest groups, like for youth, or scripture study, or expectant mothers, yet when we worship it is everyone together in community.

If you are into newsletters like I am, you are aware that you can now segment your subscribers into category lists. However, with the mailing lists that I manage, I keep everyone together in community. So that means I have separate categories in one email, and everyone gets (sent) it, they just look at the sections of the newsletter that interests them.

I think that community is where we grow by learning from each other. For example, the Catechism of the Catholic Church reads: 1877 The vocation of humanity is to show forth the image of God and to be transformed into the image of the Father's only Son. This vocation takes a personal form since each of us is called to enter into the divine beatitude; it also concerns the human community as a whole. ….

…. 752 In Christian usage, the word “church� designates the liturgical assembly,141 but also the local community142 or the whole universal community of believers.143 These three meanings are inseparable. “The Church� is the People that God gathers in the whole world. She exists in local communities and is made real as a liturgical, above all a Eucharistic, assembly. She draws her life from the word and the Body of Christ and so herself becomes Christ’s Body.

So people of the Church are the Body of Christ, and thus we are an example to each other of what we live and believe as the Body, thus we learn from each other by being community.

So to pull this all together, the birdbath is a symbol of nature, that God created birds to bath themselves not only to be clean but to have community … there is much in nature us humans can learn from.




Enjoy your day, you won't get it back,
Frank



Color Birdbath with Flowers by Frank J Casella Copyright 2019 Frank J Casella

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

Legacy. How do you want to be remembered?

These are the words that came across my computer this week, and what I’ve been pondering since.

Many of us go through life taking for granted the short time we have on earth to make our mark, I suspect. Others of us make profound statements with our life. Most of us, I believe, carry on family for another generation.

My life mission is to share hope and God’s love in the world. That doesn’t seem to be profound on the surface of things but, if you think about it, many people today live without hope and don’t know or see how God works in our lives. People need examples of goodness and hope.

It would be great for many of us if our legacy where to build a skyscraper, or a great work of art, or invent a disease curing drug, or like Thomas Edison with the light bulb. But the more noble legacy is to get others, especially our family, to Heaven. That can have an impact three generations deep!

So, after we die there may be things we did in this world that may be remembered, but what is more important I think is the people who help others because of how we have helped them. Our name may not be on it, but it will be in God’s book of Christian service.

Enjoy your day, you won't get it back,
Frank



Legacy How Do You Want To Me Remembered Copyright 2019 Frank J Casella

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

It is interesting to me how flowers grow in groups. Sometimes different kinds, and other times blooming before the others. Such is the case of life itself ...

I have been thinking about groups lately for a few reasons.

First, I’ve been working with my Catholic parish coordinating a men’s group to meet about once a month to discuss the Sunday Gospel. Looks as if, after the pandemic, that will start to meet in-person again soon.

Second, I read an article recently how the key to developing a mega-church is to have many small groups. And you thought it was about the preaching? ... Well, so did I.

And finally, I’m seeing a movement of people who see the best way to use social media today is for developing their participation in analog groups offline. Turns out, our brains are not able to keep up with being on screens all the time.

We all need each other to make it in the world, and this is one reason why belonging to groups of interest is important in life. But it all depends on our outlook.

This makes me think how the late Fulton Sheen used to say:

"There are two ways of waking up in the morning. One is to say, 'Good morning, God,' and the other is to say, 'Good God, morning'!"

What is your perspective on how to make it in the world?

Whow in your life is doing this together with you?



Enjoy your day, you won't get it back,
Frank



Groups of Flowers Copyright 2021 Frank J Casella

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

I only got one click from the camera shutter of this guy before he leaped off into the woods.

There seem to be more deer in the preserve this year, and I wonder if it is because of the hard winter with heavy snow?

What is interesting, though, is that this deer seems to be quite young and is by itself. I usually see a pack of deer with the mother, and then, like this, when it seems the mother lets them go to be on their own.

You wonder if deer make friends, like we humans do.

Do you have friends?

What kind of friends do you have?

What kind of friend are you?

Good friendship is rooted in love and forgiveness, loyalty, honesty, dedication, and shows itself in times of crisis.

The best way to make true friends is to first be one.



Enjoy your day, you won't get it back,
Frank



Deer On The Forest Trail Copyright 2021 Frank J Casella

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

When I decided to do the topic of anger, I quickly became overwhelmed and wanted to change it or give up. Because there is so much that can be said, it is simple yet complex.

So, I have decided to share what anger means to me. That when I become angry I immediately ask myself who or what needs my forgiveness? Let me explain.

A spiritual director once shared with me that anger most commonly happens when something is not going our way, or we react to an injustice of our world view that we can not control.

For example, recently there have been several delays with a house project where my wife and I depend on others to complete. I have also felt anger at times because a part of my work is not getting the results that I’m looking for .....

The only way I know to get through this, is to firstly forgive what is not working, and second seek for where God is at work in these situations. It often turns out that God has a better plan, and He is just waiting for me to meet Him where he is at work in it.

This can be difficult at times because it takes prayer, patience, and discernment with the Holy Spirit to find where I need to be in my thinking and my actions. As Fulton Sheen says, "the Holy Spirit is an artist who paints a picture for us of the vision that God has for us."

So, when you become angry, I hope that what I have to say helps you to pause and respond with forgiveness instead of react with anger.


Enjoy your day,
Frank



Anger Copyright 28 July 2019 Frank J Casella

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

“Look at the birds in the sky; they do not sow or reap, they gather nothing into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are not you more important than they?“ …

… “If God so clothes the grass of the field, which grows today and is thrown into the oven tomorrow, will he not much more provide for you, O you of little faith?“

Matthew 6: 26, 30

When I look at the scene in this picture, these are the scriptures that come to mind.

Jesus does not deny the reality of human needs. but forbids making them the object of anxious care and, in effect, becoming their slave.

The word translated of little faith is used by Matthew of those who are disciples of Jesus but whose faith in him is not as deep as it should be.

Take a few moments to gaze at the picture above. Think about the birds who visit that bird house. Yes, it might provide shelter and food, but they are not attached to it.

Jesus asks us to surrender everything to follow Him. He asks us also to trust in Him with all that we have and are.

He asks us to come to Him with our sins and ask for mercy. He asks us to use the gifts He has given us for His glory.

He asks us to depend on Him for everything. He cares for the birds of the air and the lilies of the field. How much more will He take care of us!

Not only does God ask us to trust in Him with our whole being, but He asks us to be His witnesses to the world.

I never feel like my faith is as deep as it should be, and I am too conditioned (by the world) to have the faith of a bird. But when I surrender myself to Him, it is amazing how much He shows me the way …





Enjoy your day, you'll never get it back,
Frank

Frank J Casella is cofounder at CMCSmen.net, an American, Catholic, photographer, independent artist, and blogger about hope and God's love in the world at blog.frankjcasella.com. Frank Casella's Email address is writeme@frankjcasella.com.




Mercy - Black and White Square Photograph Copyright 2016 Frank J Casella

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

In any profession it's common to learn from those who've gone before us, through their words or experiences. As an artistic photographer, here are the five best quotes on art I've ever read in random order, followed by how they speak to me.


“I feel that there is nothing more truly artistic than to love people� ~ Vincent van Gogh


If you have come to appreciate my photography, then you know that I try to incorporate humanity in some form or way. Most of my life and childhood I would study people and human behavior, and then employ body language through my pictures to tell a story. Because of this, I deeply believe there is an art to love people, as in learning and getting to know (about) the human person.


“Sometimes I arrive just when God's ready to have someone click the shutter.� ~ Ansel Adams.


I can relate to this because it has actually happened with me several times. Pictures are a tool to record a moment in time, and sometimes the timing of that can only be explained as a God moment.


"Photography records the gamut of feelings written on the human face - the beauty of the earth and skies that man has inherited; and the wealth and confusion that man has created. It is a major force in explaining man to man." ~ Edward Steichen - In "Time," 7 Apr 1961.


In this day and age of the smart phone camera, more pictures have been made than in the history of photography. I'm sure Steichen himself would be flabbergasted. So if you take the pictures of the here and now, and apply them to a decade or century from now, you get not only moments that speak to us today about our lives and culture but also make a contribution to history like never before.


“What's great about this country is America started the tradition where the richest consumers buy essentially the same things as the poorest. You can be watching TV and see Coca-Cola, and you can know that the President drinks Coke, Liz Taylor drinks Coke, and just think, you can drink Coke, too. A Coke is a Coke and no amount of money can get you a better Coke than the one the bum on the corner is drinking. All the Cokes are the same and all the Cokes are good.� ~ Andy Warhol


All of us, no matter our position in life, are born into this world the same way. Our experiences help us to respond to circumstances, but they are all the same just with a different name on it. God loves all of us the same, and these words are the best example from Warhol used to humanize this. I also appreciate how he kept personal the secret behind his art, and yet to express through it his beliefs as a devout Catholic.


"Some people have been kind enough to call me a fine artist. I've always called myself an illustrator. I'm not sure what the difference is. All I know is that whatever type of work I do, I try to give it my very best. Art has been my life." — Norman Rockwell


I've always related to the works of Rockwell. Not because he called his paintings pictures, which they were, but because of the detail of the story telling he used and the message he worked on each one to deliver to the viewer. Likewise, I've never considered myself an artist as much as I've viewed my responsibility to be a documentary photographer with an artistic flare.


Thank you for reading. Enjoy your day, you'll never get it back.
Frank



View Forest Morning Light Impressionism - Square - Color Landscape Photograph - Copyright 2021 Frank J Casella - frankjcasella.pixels.com

The morning sunlight sprinkles between the forest trees with a hint of orange amungst the green. The Impressionism effect is added to bring out the details of this scene.

This image is from my Homewood Izaak Walton Preserve collection, found at - www.HIWP.FrankJCasella.com

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A cloudy morning makes for a lovely day to read a book, without worry of sunburn. The light and shadow play here is not as harsh, and makes for a beautiful scene to inspire rest. I also like how the red flowers pop! I gave this a slight blur to soften the mood of this subject. Enjoy!



Blessed is the poor in spirit ....

In America, we live in a culture that says more is better, but is this a lie?

We all have our stuff packed away in the basements of our homes, sometimes extending to storage sheds that we pay to put our stuff. And, no matter our social rank, the more stuff we have, whether possessions or in our head, the more we get distracted from the true meaning life:

Our dependence on God, and our relationships those we love.

Did you know the biblical meaning of freedom means that we are free of attachments to be able to follow the will of God?

Recently I went through my stuff, with the mindset that if I die tomorrow what of it will end in the trash. It turned out most of it. I haven't touched this stuff in years ...

The poor in spirit: in the Old Testament, the poor are those who are without material possessions and whose confidence is in God, and those who recognized their complete dependence on God.

Do you allow yourselves to become attached to your possessions?

What came with this for me was a form of spiritual poverty, as small as it was ...

When we are free from stuff, we free ourselves from distraction. (read that again)

God's will is that we depend on Him, what more could you want?

This is the true meaning of life .. ... to keep our stuff in right perspective.


"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." - Mt. 5:3



Enjoy your day, you'll never get it back,
Frank

Frank J Casella is cofounder at CMCSmen.net, an American, Catholic, photographer, independent artist, and blogger about hope and God's love in the world at blog.frankjcasella.com. Frank Casella's Email address is writeme@frankjcasella.com.




A Lovely Day To Read A Book Copyright 2019 Frank J Casella

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

There was much fog on this morning, which made the silence for this one Sunday a special one. Until the low flying airplanes came by. I don’t think I even heard any birds, but if I did the planes washed them out.

This got me to thinking how sometimes in life we can be in a fog, until something we least expect gives us a jolt. If we pay attention, and listen to it, we can come out of that fog that sometimes we don’t even know we have.

This picture is a classic local nature scene from my home town of Homewood, Illinois - USA. Sometimes when you remove the colors, the details of beauty present themselves more clearly ... even with the fog.

It is something how fog will come in and change how we see things, and then leave and we notice things again that we didn’t see when the fog was here. This is what is so special about the silence of fog.


Enjoy your day, you'll never get it back,
Frank

Frank J Casella is cofounder at CMCSmen.net, an American, Catholic, photographer, independent artist, and blogger about hope and God's love in the world at blog.frankjcasella.com. Frank Casella's Email address is writeme@frankjcasella.com.




Backyard Moring Fog - Black and White Copyright 2018 Frank J Casella

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This picture of brightly colored flowers has a silent power to it.

Firstly, people love flowers.

Second, their fragrance is something we behold.

Finally, their beauty is an expression of God’s love to us, that we can choose to pass on to others through them.

Recently in church, the priest was talking about with the Scripture readings how power is used in the world. That world leaders use power to enforce their agenda; politicians use power to manipulate the laws; and people in general on social media can instantly condemn a persons name or integrity.

But, those of us who are believers, have the power to be witnesses of truth and love. And that power is not our own, but that of Jesus who dwells inside us.

As those readings say:

“You are witnesses of these things.
And behold I am sending the promise of my Father upon you;
but stay in the city
until you are clothed with power from on high."

Which brings me back to these simple flowers. The purpose of photography is the power to see the every day in a different light.

When I was in college it was explained that you follow the form until you gain insight to take it out of the box. And that is a fine starting point if you don’t want to spend time or energy questioning the form.

But, I took it out of the box from day one because I couldn‘t figure out how to stay in the box. Because questioning the form, to me, was embracing the new part of the medium as precisely where forward motion happens.

The only right way is the way that helps you make the change you seek.




Enjoy your day, you'll never get it back,
Frank

Frank J Casella is cofounder at CMCSmen.net, an American, Catholic, photographer, independent artist, and blogger about hope and God's love in the world at blog.frankjcasella.com. Frank Casella's Email address is writeme@frankjcasella.com.




The Silent Power of God's Love Copyright 2019 Frank J Casella

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

Sometimes weeds are beautiful to look at, other times can grow so much when not cut back they can choke out flowers and other landscape growing around them.

In life, weeds are the distractions and noise that keep us from doing the deep work that we are called to do.

In our spiritual lives, weeds are the things that keep us from God. When you give God the place to speak, He has a lot to say.

All of this to say, that we need weeds in our lives to help us keep our focus, and the fastest way to success is to replace bad habits with good ones.



Enjoy your day, you'll never get it back,
Frank

Frank J Casella is cofounder at CMCSmen.net, an American, Catholic, photographer, artist, and blogger at blog.frankjcasella.com. Frank Casella's Email address is writeme@frankjcasella.com.




Weeds Copyright 2019 Frank J Casella

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

I've titled this picture 'Free Bird In Flight'. If you look at the lower left ( Click Here to view larger on website ) just above the tree line, you will find a bird in flight.

Makes me think of this quote:

"Be like the bird who, pausing in her flight awhile on boughs too slight, feels them give way beneath her, and yet sings, knowing she hath wings."

--Victor Hugo


Enjoy your day, you'll never get it back,
Frank



Free Bird In Flight Copyright 2019 Frank J Casella

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I like how a touch of the morning sunlight dances on the full bloom of the Judas Tree. Along with the silhouetted branch patterns, makes for a welcome lift from the usual green that we see the rest of the warm months. Change can be a good thing. But some people fear change.

Some change is like the season, we know the purple leaves will come and go about the same time each year. Sometimes we have to trust change and move with it as things develop. It is said that FEAR stands for False. Evidence. Appearing. Real. Yet we can also have the fear of the Lord ... meaning reverence.

I don't know if you can relate, but it seems the more I surrender my self to the will of God, that He wants me to go deeper with Him. He wants my full intention, and not a drive-by feeling. But I have learned that God will only make things work out to those who fully surrender to His will, and don't take it back once they give to it.

I found this Prayer of Abandonment in the Catholic Men's Bible by Fr. Larry Richards:


"Father, I abandon myself into your hands; do with me what you will.

Whatever you may do, I thank you: I am ready for all, I accept all. Let only your will be done in me, and in all your creatures. I wish no more than this, O Lord.

Into your hands I commend my soul; I offer it to you with all the love of my heard, for I love you, Lord, and so need to give myself to you, to surrender myself into your hands, without reserve, and with boundless confidence, for you are my Father."


Have a blessed day,
Frank

Other Side of the Fence Copyright 2012 Frank J Casella

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

The Solitude of Silence

One key element to much of my art photographs is in listening to the silence. I learned this from a friend of mine who challenged me to spend one hour a day, for sixty days, in the solitude of silence.

Solitude: Time alone with your own thoughts and free from input from other minds.

I thought it would be like when I go to Holy Adoration for an hour each a few times a month, however, I couldn't last fifteen minutes in my first hour of silence. By the end of the sixty days it was very reveling to me how much more I had clarity of mind, at peace, and seemed more happy.

What happens during this process is that all of us have this noise in our heads, both from all the interactions we have with other people and things in our daily lives, as well as the information overload we take in. In fact, after the first couple weeks of doing this process you will notice how much the noise suppresses our own thoughts deep inside .. the things God may be saying to us but we never hear.


"There is enough time in a day to accomplish everything God wants me to do. If I am harried, it is because I am doing things that God has not asked of me." ~ Lisa Brenninkmeyer


Many people I share this process with say how they spend five or ten minutes a day in silence, because they don't have that kind of time. Others, you can tell, are afraid of the silence. But one thing I have learned from the silence is that you come to learn God's voice.

It's like finding the beauty of flowers in the middle of the wooded preserve, just like the picture above, the things that I once worried about and struggled with are no longer a weight on my shoulders.

I no longer see the things through my camera that I once did, rather, I see new things always seen but never noticed.


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Enjoy your day!

Frank J Casella,



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

Saint Joseph - Foster Father - Copyright 2016 Frank J Casella


As you may know, the Catholic Church is in the Year of Saint Joseph, and this concentration has brought two elements of clarity for me about this Saint.

First that he was a man of few words, but, rather spoke through his actions.

Second, he was chosen for an enormous responsibility from God to be the provider and protector of Mary, and then Jesus.

The Bible doesn't say much about Joseph, but what it says is powerful if you really study it.

St. Joseph was a man who understood the "why" of Mary, the Mother of Jesus, and her 'Yes" to God to be that her womb is known as the first tabernacle of Jesus.

In the Gospels it tells us to love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, and soul. And to love your neighbor as yourself, through Mercy.

St. Joseph did just that!




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Thanks for reading.

Frank J Casella

Saint Joseph - Foster Father Copyright 2016 Frank J Casella

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Draw Near to God by Frank J Casella

The morning sunshine illuminates the clouds in the blue sky, and evaporates the fog in the tree tops as well.

God is love, and invites us to draw near to Him. So that we can be illuminated with His Light, and allow Him to remove the fog we often have with finding our purpose.


"Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you of two minds."

James 4:8

www.usccb.org/bible/james/4:8



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Thanks for reading.

Frank J Casella

Picture made with the iPhone 5s camera. Copyright 2018 Frank J Casella: Draw Near to God Copyright 2018 Frank J Casella

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

Dear FAA Family and Friend's, 


The simple moments in life like this help us to put our priorities in right perspective.

We can be so busy that we miss out on the sunrises in life, the times in the silence of our own thoughts.











"Be glad, let earth be glad, as glory
floods her, ablaze with light from her
eternal King, let all corners of the earth
be glad, knowing an end to gloom and
darkness.�

~ The Exsultet: The Proclamation of Easter

Happy Easter to you and those you love!

Frank J Casella

Photo: Early Spring Sunrise Fogs Copyright 2020 Frank J Casella

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The Immutable Laws of God

A bare altar with purple banner sets the tone at Holy Name Cathedral in Chicago, Illinois, where faithful Catholics visit throughout the days for prayer and observing for Holy Week.

Is there something in your life that takes priority over loving God with your whole heart?

The Ten Commandments represent God’s immutable laws. Obedience to Jesus and His name brings salvation: “He who believes in Him is not condemned; he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.� (Jn. 3:18)

The Commandments, fulfilled in Jesus, form the “skeletal structure� of Christian morality. Our virtuous response forms the muscles, tendons, and flesh. But we remain in conflict with ourselves because of our sinful inclinations, while the Commandments provoke conflict with the world—and within the Church.

The five elements of the power to completely transform your obedience to God is your prayer life: begin the conversation, ask God what He wants, give yourself to prayer, transform everything into prayer, and make yourself available.

But the sixth element is more important than all of them put together.

Just keep showing up.



Thanks for reading, have a blessed and meaningful Holy Week!

Frank J Casella




Photo: Lent - Color Photo Copyright 2016 Frank J Casella


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


STICKERS

Accessorize your life with unique stickers from photographer and independent artist Frank J Casella!


Produced by Pixels (Fine Art America), our vinyl stickers are available in four different sizes and are kiss-cut to create a 1/8" border around the perimeter of each design.


Each sticker has an adhesive backing with plenty of stickiness to cling to any smooth surface while still being easy to remove.


Shop now on Pixels or my Artist Website!



Here are some of my favorites ....


Measuring Up To Jesus Sticker

Star-Spangled Banner Sticker

Havana Brown Cat Sticker

Threshold - Faith in the Light of Dawn - Tulip Sticker

City of Chicago - River Tour Sticker

Symbols - Jesus With Us Sticker

Crucifix Sticker

Chicago Morning Commute - Monochrome Sticker

Saint Joseph - Foster Father of Jesus Sticker



Find more on Pixels and my Artist Website!


Thanks for reading. Enjoy your day!

Frank


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Photo: Summer on the Chicago River - Black and White Sticker - Color Photo Copyright 2013 Frank J Casella


Monochrome Art Photography of two people enjoying the scenic view of the Chicago River in the summertime.


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Sign up to join other viewers who have my latest scenic from the preserve sent every Sunday directly to their inbox.

Preview photographs at Homewood Izaak Walton Wall Art

Simply send me an email to - hiwp@frankjcasella.com - and then add ' SUBSCRIBE HIWP ' in the subject line. You should get right back an auto responding mail to confirm.

Thank you for reading. Enjoy your day .. and see you in your inbox soon.

Frank J Casella




Photo: Rustic Autumn - Painterly - Copyright 2020 Frank J Casella.

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This is a unique moment that I made through a broken out window. If I had been in the building my lens would have steamed up.

I do not talk much about my days as a firefighter, but I think this photograph explains much about that.

You see, fighting fires is like hell on earth, and being a firefighter taught me much about my faith. When you go into a burning house, it is very hot and very smoky, visibility is very minimal that you have to feel your way around.

The steam from the firehose makes it very uncomfortable, and you feel totally out of control other that what you are trained to do.

Not only do you need to have deep trust in your partner that you go in with, but you learn to have trust that God is protecting you. To me it is better to have God, than not have God, and I don't know how the firefighters who did not believe in God did it.

As important as this work was towards saving life and property, - one life lost is too many - It pales I think to the impact I am making today with my pictures and the Catholic Apostolate that I co-founded ... only because the reach of people is much larger, thankfully, than the numbers of people caught in an emergency fire situation.

So, although I have many pictures of the fire service, this is the one image that tells the story for me about what it is about, and what it means, to be a firefighter.

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Photo: Truck Company Ops. - Color Photo Copyright 2013 Frank J Casella


A firefighter performs over hall to check for fire extension.


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Get New Subscribers Up To Speed

FAQ For The "Uninitiated"

Today's post doesn't apply to everyone.

It's for the "uninitiated" only.

And it is basically an unorthodox "FAQ" for the influx of newer subscribers I have gotten over the past few weeks, with the blog posts from 2021 thus far.

So there's no real weekly blog " thought " today.

Just links to prior emails that are now on my artists website blog.

And a way we go -->>>

Get Sunday Scenic from Izaak Walton Preserve

Things Happen for a Reason

Let There Be Peace On Earth

Keep Your Focus

The Interesting Thing About Dialogue

Works of Mercy

Frozen Bench

Rooftop Winter Sunset - Impressionism

Goodbye Buddy the Wonder Dog



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Photo: Sunlight Shadows On Ice - Abstract - Color Photo Copyright 2016 Frank J Casella


Ice patters on black pavement juxtaposed with shadow patterns from the morning sunlight.

Although this may look difficult to walk on, it is something beautiful to look at. Likewise, the challenges or struggles we face in life can strengthen us, when we know that we are prayerfully in God's love.


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Goodbye Buddy

By Frank J Casella

In case you have not heard, Buddy, the Golden-Lab, passed away on February 13th. I would like to share with you a few highlights of his life, and some pictures, as a way to provide (for me) some closure. And you can find a link to pictures below.

Buddy was born in the Fall of 2006, and came to my family in 2007. Our children pooled their money from birthday 's and holiday 's to get him.

Although, there were a few dogs from the shelter before Buddy, they went right back because they ended up not being a good fit for our home. Our good friend, Tracy, who is a dog behaviorist helped us sort things out. Then Grandpa located Buddy, as he is a huge dog lover. So Buddy is a rescue dog, and we named him Buddy because my son always wanted a dog named Buddy .. and boy was he ever!

What we learned as we started to socialize Buddy, is that he had aggression towards women. We agreed that Buddy was suppose to be our dog, so Tracy helped us all to get on the same page and help Buddy to be a ' dog ' again ... and that took a little over a year (and boy did that training help out when we got Strudel, the King Shepherd Dog, as she was a dominant breed).

One highlight from all the training our friend Sherry, who works with American Kennel Club. showed us how to certify Buddy as a Canine Good Citizen Dog. After a few try's, which is normal, Buddy finally was certified. The kids in the neighborhood, who are now all grown up, loved and where always happy to see Buddy very much. And when I would take him to the library and wait outside while another family member was inside, the kids going in and out of the building would stop and love on Buddy. ... he loved every minute of it too .. he no longer lunged at the mom's in aggression .. you could tell he loved being a dog again.

Buddy loved to stay outside all of the time, bathe in the sun, and play with his ball. He also loved to go for long walks and run. The first few years with us, we took him to the dog park. He always loved to run laps on the track, several rounds, and when he got tired ran for the big mud puddle (until Tracy showed us how to keep him out of the mud!).

When we took him for walks at the Wetlands Preserve, Buddy could not stay out of the water. Buddy also loved to play basketball with the children, and often would wait under the basket for the ball to come through the net and bop him in the nose. He was also a good blocker and gave everyone from the neighborhood who played with us a hard time getting to the basket ... he wanted the ball.

Buddy also had a number of health setbacks, like a ruptured ligament in his back leg (a basketball injury), one eye got damaged at the dog park, he also was attacked a few times - once by three Pitt Bull Dogs at the same time. The last few years we thought a few times that Buddy was going to leave us, but he would bounce back and prove us wrong. Our friend Dr. Christie was the best Vet for Buddy, she took the best care of him and helped us do the same in many ways ... especially after Buddy was attacked.

Buddy and I spent a lot of time together, as I have a home office, so he would let me know when he needed to go out, when it is time to go for a walk, and when it's time for food .. .and the time change didn't matter, he was always on the clock. The past couple years Buddy could not get up off the floor, so we had to help lift his back legs .. but once on his paws he was ready to go.

Now that we are dog-less, I'm reminded of one thing 'Boiler Mike', who is the guy who installed our boiler and a/c system said, and that is " a house is not a home without a dog on the floor ". Over the years I have often thought how ' DOG ' spelled in reverse is ' GOD ' and that is no coincidence ... for dogs show us much about unconditional love.

You can find pictures of Buddy here, and I hope they make you smile.

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Photo: Dogs and the Sesons of Life - Color Photo Copyright 2019 Frank J Casella


A Golden Retriever Dog celebrates the colorful leaves of the Autumn season.


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Rooftop Winter Sunset - Impressionism - Color Photograph Copyright 2021 Frank J Casella - frankjcasella.pixels.com

I was up on the roof of my house during a major snow storm, and found this beautiful moment in time of the sunset through the trees ... it reminded me of an impressionism painting, so I gave it that effect. Enjoy!

Somtimes, when we change our perspecive, in the storms of life, we can find the true beauty of hope and the love of God in our lives, and in this world. This is why it is important to always make time for pause, and to notice the signs and wonders around us through people, places and things.


Thanks for reading, have an enjoyable day.
Frank



Photo: Rooftop Winter Sunset - Impressionism - Copyright 2021 Frank J Casella.

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Frozen Bench by Frank J Casella

A winter blizzard leaves a bench frozen and covered with snow of a hometown in the American Midwest - Copyright 2014 Frank J Casella - frankjcasella.pixels.com

We recently had a rather snowy blizzard here in Chicagoland, and the weather forecasters mentioned how we have not seen anything like this in about six years. So I went into my archives from 2014 and found this gem of a documentary image. It could just as well been made these past few days.

I always try to find a moment in time that is ralatable to the masses, yet unique enough to creat three - second - impact when you view it. Like for use on the wall in waiting rooms or on a greeting card, for example, that takes you out of your present moment in life to study what is going on in this scene.

I remember when I made this picture. how I took a walk with the iPad Mini camera, in search to find a documentary moment of the deep snow blizzard, yet keep in tune with my distictive message of hope and God's love in the world. Whenever I go on a photo walk, I pray for the Holy Spirit to point my lens to what the world should see. So, short of the long, I recall walking across the street and then turning to see this moment in front of me.

This says a lot more than, say, deep snow on top of a car, or the gutters of snow shoveled from sidwalks, or even low hanging snow covered tree branches. The message here is that, although you might like to see a person sitting on the bench with shorts in the summer sun, despite the chill of the deep snow, if you take a step back there is a beauty from God's paint brush.

Throughout the seasons of life, it is important to see the beauty in every moment and to make the time to look for it, because then God can inspire you to seek the beauty where he is at work in your own life.

Thanks for reading, have an enjoyable day.
Frank



Photo: Frozen Bench - Copyright 2014 Frank J Casella.

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Works of Mercy by Frank J Casella

When I look at this picture, the reddish Fall leaves in the trees with snowy branches, I can not help but think about the mercy of God. How most trees lose their leaves by the time it snows, these trees (which I think are classic Burr Oak) seem to keep their leaves. How many times do we hold on to, or carry, things in our lives that only mercy can provide an answer or closure?

You may see mercy in a different way with this picture, but, what this all brings me to think about is the Catholic Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy. The Corporal Works of Mercy are found in the teachings of Jesus and give us a model for how we should treat all others, as if they were Christ in disguise. The Spiritual Works of Mercy have long been a part of the Christian tradition, appearing in the works of theologians and spiritual writers throughout history.


The corporal Works of Mercy are:

To feed the hungry;
To give drink to the thirsty;
To clothe the naked;
To harbour the harbourless;
To visit the sick;
To ransom the captive;
To bury the dead.


The spiritual works of mercy are:

To instruct the ignorant;
To counsel the doubtful;
To admonish sinners;
To bear wrongs patiently;
To forgive offences willingly;
To comfort the afflicted;
To pray for the living and the dead.


Most of all, this takes Prayer in Times of Seeking God's Will.


Thanks for reading, have an enjoyable day.
Frank



Photo: Red in the Wooded Winter - Copyright 2021 Frank J Casella.

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.... is that it means "a conversation or exchange between two or more people,"

Dialogue is important so that we can function as a society, and to foster personal growth.

To learn the viewpoints of others, so that we can then create our own viewpoints on life.

With today's use of technology, specifically smartphones, it can be easy to put off being in-person.

However, it is the personal interaction of all the human senses that gives dialogue its power and effectiveness.


Thanks for reading, have an enjoyable day.
Frank



Photo: The Interesting Thing About Dialog - Copyright 2017 Frank J Casella.

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This beautiful moment in time came and went in less than twenty minutes, yet it is one of those moments that you steal some time to notice God's creation, that He is still in control.

The thought that came to mind, though, before I clicked the camera shutter, was how without this sky the trees are back to the 'reality' of everyday. That you have to look through these trees to see the full picture of colors and cloud formations.

The same thing happens in everyday life, that if we don't keep our focus on what is important, we can become distracted by the 'eye candy' in front of us. That it is okay to appreciate the beauty of life to reminds, those of us who believe, that it is not all about us but through His love.


As a side note: I have become very disappointed in recent months with the lawmakers in our nation's Capitol here in the USA. It seems they have not been keeping their focus, and making discussions in haste or based on emotion of the moment, instead of using wisdom and good judgement with the people they serve in mind. There will always be polotics, but I think it is influencing too much of what they are doing as of late. This photograph illustrates then, I think, seeing the true beauty through the trees, or keeping your focus through the struggles.

In any event, I hope whatever this moment in time brings to mind for you, that you find it meaningful even if it is a quick as it came and went, and from my camera to you.

Thanks for reading. Have an enjoyable weekend.
Frank
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Photo: Winter Sunrise Through Silhouetted Pines - Copyright 2021 Frank J Casella.

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Comment or question? Contact me


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