Tags
American neoclassical sculpture, letting go, Maine, Portland Museum of Art, spring cleaning, Wolfe's Neck Woods State Park
When I’m about to embark on something new, different, and a little daunting, I often remind myself to “go with the flow,” stay in the present, and loosen my grip on the controls. I imagine myself diving off a cliff and taking a very long ride down into a warm, welcoming sea.
Putting away my expectations, hopes, and fears and just taking the new adventure one step at a time allows me to release the burdensome stones that tend to accumulate during everyday life.
It’s like spring cleaning for the mind. We take a few steps back,
put the past aside,
and step into the light.
The photos above were taken at the Portland Museum of Art in Portland, Maine. Walking into this atrium was like stepping into a serenity bath. These figures are locked in their quiet reveries for all time. Standing among them, I felt all the residual heaviness I’d accumulated over the past winter vaporize under their cool gazes.
Stuck as they are, these statues remind us that we can lighten our mental load by letting go of those tightly held ideas that hold us back. Instead of jumping in to make “wise” pronouncements about people and things, we can instead bolster our wisdom by simply holding still and taking the time to listen and observe.
In a few days I’ll be traveling to new places. The landscape, culture, and people will be very different from what I am used to. We won’t even speak the same language. So that I don’t miss anything and take it all in, I’m going to follow my own advice. Mentally, at least, I’m packing light.

Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport, Maine
What a relief. The chapter sounded like a suicide letter. Glad it is not, but quite the contrary. A celebration of life and all that it offers. Good for you for seeing the world. Good for us that you share what you see.
Enjoy wherever it is you are going, travel is a perk that alot of people don’t ever get to experience. Just don’t drink the water.
Bon voyage!!!
Those sculptures are gorgeous! I love the one of the mother and child–the draping of the fabric is exquisite.
Judith, this is fantastic advice for now and always…merci friend. Have a fantastic time and travel safely please!!! xo
Thank you for sharing your experience (and photos) from your visit to the PMA. I know a number of staff members (including myself) who “refresh” in the sculpture gallery on a daily basis. It does have a certain calming effect, especially in the springtime light.
I wish you safe travels and hope you are able to see some great art!
Love this. Your photos on this post are beautiful. So peaceful. Have a wonderful time while you are away. Relax. Enjoy. And take lots of pictures!!!! Be safe!
Judith,
I am jealous you are going. My own plans have fallen through. I will be eager
to read about your trip from your own unique perspective.
Another great batch of photos! The stones in the person-shaped cage are especially intriguing.