Not far from our dorm here in Plymouth, Henry Green and Ralph are heading up a 7-week totem pole project with the University of Plymouth. Last night, My P. and I had chance to drink a few pints of Stella beer with these amazing First Nation artists who will soon erect a 15 foot totem pole at the university entrance. Seems that the U.K. if full of unexpected, chance encounters with artists (see here and here).
From shamanism to fishing rights, from the Mayan calendar (which ends in 2012) to British redwood trees, from mystical experiences to cross-cultural marriages, our conversation was a refreshing change from our graduate studies.
Ralph reminded me to enjoy life: to live each day is if it were the last. I know. I know. This is a cliché. But I needed to be reminded. I worry too much about my studies. Thanks to two First Nation guys with eagle necklaces and silent eyes that say more than words, I aim to take a different approach in my graduate studies this year. Live more, worry less. Take time to be with people I care about.
And most of all, remember Spirit.
image of totem pole by Henry Green, one of the foremost totem pole artists in North America Coastal Peoples
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