8.2.10

grounding myself


I received some really jarring news yesterday, and don't really have much to say right now.  I didn't wear this today.  I am just in jeans.  I took these pictures on Saturday as a test to see what I wanted to wear in New York.   All I really want to do right now is read 'Grounding Myself Philosophically,' a chapter in The Scholar Warrior by Deng Ming . Dao, about taoism and the natural life cycles.  Taoists have a very grounded, peaceful, present and accepting perception of life and death and move gracefully between its cycles. Is anyone else familiar with the I Ching or Taoism?  Philosophy is a topic of tremendous interest to me.  I have often thought of starting a blog or club dedicated to philosophical discussion.  I have a great capacity to discuss topics like this dispassionately, with a rational, calm, and non judgmental demeanor.  If this seems interesting to anyone else let me know.  I would NOT want it to become a soapbox station where we stubbornly scream about our personal opinions with closed hearts and heads, but a place to have non judgmental discussions anonymously about existential things.  A safe place.  More of a questioning forum full of things to think about, feel about, and decide for ones self if it makes sense.  These probably already exist.  I don't have to be the one to start this, so if you know of one please give me the link.  I would love to join a discussion.  I guess I do have a lot to say right now.

COMMENT OF THE DAY:

Blogger what i would have worn... said...

I have been quietly following your blog for a little while now but felt I might be able to offer something to today’s discussion.
I have been travelling a rather bumpy path myself for a little while now and whilst I cannot claim to be a philosopher or even someone of a particularly scholastic inclination I am happy to tell you of the personal conclusions I have come to.
The most important thing is to have faith in yourself.
You can’t control what happens in the world but you can control your reaction to it. You already have the power somewhere within you to overcome any obstacles thrown in your path; you just have to find it… and when you do it is really something beautiful.

Is that too heavy for a fashion blog? I hope I didn’t come off like some kind of a self help nut job… Perhaps I should finish by saying that I really love this coat/dress (?) and how you have styled it…

52 comments:

merl said...

i would be interested in reading said entries, though I'm not philosophical enough myself to add to the debate. i used to love debating with people about politics but i feel like everyone has become so entrenched with their point of view, that it's not a discussion, but like you said its "a soapbox station where we stubbornly scream about our personal opinions with closed hearts and heads" neither side is always in the right or wrong, and while i do lean towards one view, i'm not opposed to listening to anothers POV as long as they are as open as i am.

i hope you find your forum, or start one.. and like i said i'd like to be a silent observer..

(and yes i love your belt and necklace.. had to toss in the fashion probs in there!)

bonfire of my vanity said...

i have really been enjoying your blog. your style is really amazing. i hope that you find some peace today and that the news you heard isn't too bad. thinking of you and sending good vibes.

http://bellisimama.blogspot.com/

Ess said...

I was always interested, but I never knew where to begin. Maybe you could let us beginners know where to start to learn more (specific books).

p.s. yay thigh highs. Looks great.

www.theclichequeen.blogspot.com

Wild as a Mink said...

This outfit from Sat. will be a perfect choice for one of the days in NYC-except its really cold here right now. Just FYI.
then again, please don't stress much about outfits--your everyday outfit choices are already much better than 95% of what's being worn here.
I'm sorry to hear you got some unsettling news...I hope you can find an inner peace and have life back to normal by next week (then again I don't know the news, so I'm not sure if this is possible, I'll just hope for the best for you.)

sarahannnoel said...

It might be a little bit different than what you're going for, but you might check out soulpancake.com. Rainn Wilson (from The Office) helped start the site, and it's a place where people share art, projects, and deep questions/discussion on social issues, philosophy, religion, and culture.

h. hart said...

I would love it if you started that blog, I would comment/help write it (although you dont know me, so that might be a strange offer). I threw the i ching for the first time this december, and found it...clarifying? though-provoking, perhaps. Good luck with this, and keep us posted!

JoAnna Duncan said...

Everyone could use a safe non judgemental place to share their thoughts/views/questions. I've read a bit about Taoism - it had a certain grace that appealed to me, it didn't hold all the answers I was looking for but there was a lot of good principles in it. Keeping an open heart and mind is vital if we're serious about finding real "truth" or peace - I hope you do start you're forum. I also hope your news doesn't throw you off course or cause you too much upset.

www.thebeanscene.onsugar.com

Jen said...

Philosophy isn't a subject that's ever grabbed me much - the study of intangible things seems less interesting than the study of people. But I'd definitely be interested in reading your thoughts on it!

Hope you're okay. xx

Idée Géniale said...

Oh lady, I hope you're o.k. You have my number if you need to call. Although, I'm sure you have friends and family surounding you to unload. And Nickie is right, please remember that it is cold here!! And not everyone dresses to the nines everyday. Comfort is key.

What we four say said...

I'm so sorry to hear of your loss dear. I would love to read about Taoism/Buddhism and new age stuff too. I find it interesting and most times very uplifting. In fact, many of the books I own are mostly on those said subjects.

I can safely say I do enjoy your blog very much and have been so glad I found it just a week ago. I'm so sorry to hear you are having a hard time but I am sending my best and wishing you clarity to get through it. Take care doll!

No said...

I would be incredibly interested in anything you would have to say concerning philosophy. Its always been one of those subjects that continues to intrigue me. (and you look divine as always!)

Anonymous said...

eekk I hope all is well! I did feature you in my blog today as you were an inspiration for my recent outfit.

I love your look for NYC!

chris @ court + hudson said...

i agree with merly - i used to enjoy discussions on philosophy and society, but i've found that it's just not something that can be had online. opposing responses seem to elicit this rage in people to spew harsh comments towards others, so i've found in person debates and discussions much more meaningful. I'd love to know of a place online if you find that "safe place."

and i almost feel guilty for asking about fashion in the same breath, but you leave me little choice! your dress, is it a men's shirt? oversized cardigan? i can't tell and i'm kind of really digging it ; )

Varpu said...

Oh I'd love to read and participate in a blog like that! I'm always up for constructive discussions on interesting subjects and I think you seem like a good person to keep a blog like that. If you have the time and enthusiasm then definitely go for it, I'm in at least!! :)

Jolie said...

I hope you are okay!! I do love your outfit, very outdoorsy and very feminine at the same time! Adorable! Wishing you the best! xoxo Jolie

Sarah K. said...

I would love to hear your philosophical thoughts. I'm not very educated on the subject (although I have taken a few classes) but I have very strong opinions and I love to hear others'.

also, I hope you're okay. "jarring news" sounds so worrying. whatever it is, I hope in time it won't be so jarring.

Marie McGrath (The Joy of Fashion) said...

I love the bohemian feel to this outfit. I also love the hat, so feminine!

www.thejoyoffashion.blogspot.com

Kelsey* said...

I would love to see a blog about philosophies. I have not read/studied about it but I do have an interest and open mind.
I love looking at your blog each day. I do hope that you are able to find some comfort from the bad news that you received.

Sidewalk Chic said...

I'm sending positive thoughts your way...I hope you have friends and family there to comfort you.

I love this outfit by the way -- it's so bohemian and chic.

I took an Asian Religions class in college and though my knowledge of Taoism could use a refresher, I would definitely be interested in reading (and perhaps participating) in a forum for it.

- JoAnn, Sidewalk Chalk

San said...

Hope you are alright.

Taoism?! Interesting. If you really can discuss things like this dispassionatly, I'm really glad and right there with you. I found that most people get to emotional and close off, to discuss, to toss around ideas and debate them. I'd love this kind of discussion.

Anonymous said...

Thanks for the last comment. You are too nice. Send me a link if anyone starts the discussion, I would love to join! :)

Anonymous said...

please feel better soon! my warm wishes are with you & i look forward to reading about you in higher spirits.
xx

Anonymous said...
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Anonymous said...

take you and just add warm coats + tights! done and done.

Let the planning for fun weekend begin...! GONNNA BE AMAZING! Can't wait to see you :)

xo, Kim www.crowded-closet.com

LyddieGal said...

I'm sorry to hear you received some bad news, I hope you are able to ground yourself and that better things come your way.

The outfit, is gorgeous of course, but there is nothing wrong with just jeans either.

Bri said...

Well this is a fabulous outfit, I love the over the knee socks and the great little belt!

sandyb said...

Hmmm, I'm very interested in a philosophical forum. Like you, I teach yoga and have been fascinated by existentialism and alternative methods since I was a teenager.

By day, I edit/write for a fitness and health magazine and, although I can't say I come across a lot of philosophical experts or periodicals in my work (far from it!), I'm always amazed by how many fitness fanatics are turning to teachings from other cultures to help find balance or another perspective on life. That's what it's all about, isn't it? - Perspective.

You could start another blog (I'd love to somehow be a part of that..) or you can add short snippets to your posts - like short lessons or "fyi" bits, you know? You're so creative that I'm sure you could even find a way to tie in your personal style. If it's too much to do on a regular basis, perhaps try every Sunday or Monday, as a way to inspire your readers for their upcoming work week (?) Whatever you decide, I'm sure it will have an honest and positive vibe to it, just like this lovely space.

In the meantime, SoulPancake is a wonderful site to check out!

-sandyb

Gina said...

I'm so sorry you are going through a rough time now--you are so lucky to be so grounded and graceful in response. i wish you luck in finding peace and working through this--and I'd love to engage in an open dialogue about the philosophies we use to live anytime.
xoxo,
Gina

Jessica said...

You look lovely. Sorry about your news, I hope everything is ok!

Corie said...

I know a little about Taoism. I use to actually study buddhism and a lot of the teachings (reading material) involved Taoism, Zen, etc...

Buddhist beliefs are sometimes intertwined with Taoism, there are strict differences between the two religions however.

I would definitely be interested in this blog you would start.

I'd say go for it!

Christen said...

I would absolutely love to join in some sort of philosophical forum. I was actually just searching for one the other day and couldn't really find one that was the right fit.

Love the way you belted that dress!

BikeWorkPlay said...

I don't like reading that you are having a tough time.. You don't deserve it at all- you're too kind and caring for that. Life can be so unfair at times.

Thank you for your FANTASTIC ideas/inspiration. I'll def be trying it all out. Thank you so so much. You must be so darn busy at the moment too.

All the very best from the other side of the world,
BikeWorkPlay

Unknown said...

ihave always been interested in philosophy. i have life-issues that sometimes make me seek out the answers. I do know that at first you ask for help.(with the powers that be)then when things DO work out, this creates Faith, the more faith u have, the easier everything you do becomes.then u MUST pay it foreward of you will lose it. this i KNOW for sure.u can write to me anytime and we can talk. I am an open book.without simple meditation anf a prayer to the p.T.b.helps keep me into today. I don't "thump" but an open to any spiritual journey. if you want to talk ot start a forum, i would love to be involved. let's face it, we can shroud our bodies with works of art and beauty, but there is so much more! :)

Celine said...

I read i Ching a while back. I definitely recommend it. I always go to books when struggling with something in my life. I hope you're OK - and I love your blog, for what it's worth. - Celine

Anonymous said...

I'm sorry to hear that you received unpleasent news. I hope that your spiritual strength will pull you through this difficult time. I wish you brighter days ahead, and look forward to continuing to enjoy your wonderful style!

tess said...

I hope things get better, I am sorry to hear about your bad news. I am not philosophically inclined whatsoever but I would intrigued to learn more/participate in discussion

guildedsecret. said...

i hope everything works out for you and your family. so sorry to hear that you're not feeling your best.

xo.
princesspolitico.blogspot.com

Anonymous said...

you look absolutely stunning in the 3rd photo. (well, you always look great, but you know what i mean!)
would love to hear some of your thoughts...share more with us!

Maz said...

I have sort of the same frame of mind, interested enough to make my own decisions but not to judge others decisions. I think your blog idea is a great one. If you find a site like that let me know. As for your jarring news, I hope everything is alright! Lots of blog lovin's and happy thoughts your way!

goldleafashley.blogspot.com

Lou said...

I have been quietly following your blog for a little while now but felt I might be able to offer something to today’s discussion.
I have been travelling a rather bumpy path myself for a little while now and whilst I cannot claim to be a philosopher or even someone of a particularly scholastic inclination I am happy to tell you of the personal conclusions I have come to.
The most important thing is to have faith in yourself.
You can’t control what happens in the world but you can control your reaction to it. You already have the power somewhere within you to overcome any obstacles thrown in your path; you just have to find it… and when you do it is really something beautiful.

Is that too heavy for a fashion blog? I hope I didn’t come off like some kind of a self help nut job… Perhaps I should finish by saying that I really love this coat/dress (?) and how you have styled it…

Sonya said...

A flawless outfit, as always!


www.sonyasark.blogspot.com

J. said...

It's so hard to have a lot to say but don't know where to begin speaking...

I just started following your blog...I love it!

Catherine Shu said...

I'm sorry to hear that you got bad news. I was diagnosed with a chronic disease a few months ago. Basically, I cried for two weeks, moped for a couple months and then tried to align what happened with my interest in pragmatism. It helped a bit. I hope your interest in philosophy helps you and I'd be interested in reading whatever you write.
the renegade bean

mahayanna said...

Once again, you are gorgeous! Love the coat and the way you wear it

Anonymous said...

I am sorry that you heard some not so great news today and I hope everything turns out alright. Sending you some postive and comforting vibes your way... and a BIG HUG!!

This outfit is adorable! You are going to have so much fun in NYC.. can't wait to read all about it.

Much love,
Amy

http://thebargainhunterextraordinaire.blogspot.com

anon said...

I hope things will turn out well and that you can find a forum that you like. There is a philosophy community on livejournal but no always peaceful!

The Jazzy Belle said...

Just want you to know first that i'm sending good vibes your way today mama! I hope you have found peace and are smiling right now. I'd love to talk w/ you anytime about any number of topics. If you start something up, please let me know. Sometimes you need a place to hear and be heard. Thinking of you today.. my email is stevimm12@aol.com if you want to vent... or just click my name and say something on my blog.
peace and love
Stevi

Melanie said...

That's so exciting that you're coming to New York! However, it's kind of cold here.. so you might want some more substantial pants;D And definitely boots!

xx, lightssobright

shannon said...

hello! i recently discovered your blog via WIW and i love it! very inspirational. and i was so happy to learn that you are an art therapist!

<3 a fellow art therapist :)

Anonymous said...
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Raquelita said...

I have taught about Taoism in my World Civ class, but I always feel like a bit of a fraud when I do -- like I'm out of touch with the dao and trying to paddle upstream.

I hope that you are ok!

I'm sure that your New York outfits will be fabulous. You constantly inspire me with your creativity!

Anonymous said...

Its IMPOSSIBLE for you to be old enough to have a son...sorry. I just found your blog via 'blonde behead' and I was SO shocked to read that. You seriously don't look 21 never mind like a mom. (I mean that in a good way, hope your not offended :) )

Anyway, I LOVE this outfit! Its amazing when people take totally random clothes and put them together like this, and the hat is classic!

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