He who can no longer pause to wonder and stand rapt in awe, is as good as dead; his eyes are closed.

– Albert Einstein

Sofia asks us for wonders. In post number 1, I featured the endemic Elliots Storm-Petrel galapagoensis; ”Elliot” after the man who discovered the bird and “Petrel” refers to Saint Peter walking on water. ”Storm” was the part given to it by the sailors, who believed the birds were warning them about a storm coming their way. To get three OK photos I spent hours on deck and clicked hundreds of shots. I still think it is one of the greatest wonders I have witnessed.

The whole world is a wonder, and so is everything in it. It’s wondrous to see the tiniest ant at its daily work, it’s wondrous to see the sun rise and set, it’s wondrous that we are here, on planet Earth. I only wish we took better care of her – the only home we have.

From the greatest mountains…

…to the endless plains,

from the waves of desert …

… to the deepest jungle –

from the oldest creatures…

…to the youngest member of a family.

And from different religions to different peoples.

When we understand that everything is connected, it’s clear we must live in peace and harmony with each other in order to preserve our home and to survive.

Sofia says: ”We’re looking for the moments, places, people that we treasure, the little stories behind a shot that stuff our lives with meaning and joy.” Remember to link back to Sofia’s original post and to tag Lens-Artists so we can easily find you.

Last week we had Patti’s challenge on the importance of how to focus on our subject. A great, technical theme that rendered fantastic photos and differrent approaches. Thank you all for the inspiration.

Next week it’s John’s turn to lead us, Saturday 20th June. Until then, stay well. I will be in Greenland from tomorrow.

If you want to know more about the Lens-Artists Challenge, please click here.