My weekly visit to the botanical garden started with a glance down this path to the little thatched-covered seating area and a stop to take a couple photos. I’ve photographed it before from other perspectives so it surprised me that I was pulled in from this angle. It was my first clue that I needed solitude. I’m an introvert in the center of my being although I know how to be outgoing and sociable. We went to a Super Bowl party Sunday evening that was fun but all the people and noise quickly drained me. I was excited about being invited and I’m glad we went, but I still hadn’t recharged by Tuesday morning.
The Botanical Gardens opens an hour early on Tuesday for members and dogs. I usually see three or four dogs who are walking their owners. There may be a photographer or two and a couple of birders. This week there were swarms of people, in pairs and threesomes, and all of them were talking. They invaded my space, my garden. They irritated the crap out of me.
I did what any sane introvert would do, I hid behind my camera. I focused my mind on the structures of succulents and woody trunks, vicariously buried my head with wading birds that were fishing, escaped from walkers to capture drops on the petals of a lotus, emotionally climbed a Florida pine. I lost myself in details and found the needed peaceful quiet for my soul.
I hope that you will be able to find ways to fill yourself up during the upcoming weekend by being with lots of high energy people (if you are an extrovert) or by finding reflection time alone or with one other caring person (if you are an introvert). Maybe you will be able to have some of both in the proper balance to bring the needed well-being to your life.
A New Day: Living Life Almost Gracefully 
this is a wonderful post Pat, filled with soul nourishing images and color that in this
never ending winter of ours, is so appreciated. and the introvert in me welcomed the perspective,
i feel this way everyday! lol…just wanted to visit a bit to ty for liking my recent poetry/drawing post, encouragement is always greatly appreciated.
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These are gorgeous – love that water lily!
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Thanks. 🙂
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Darn those swarms of people invading YOUR space. 😉
{Hugs}
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They do a great job of controlling for mosquitoes, now if they would only do something with those pesky tourists. 😀
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What a great place Pat …. Beautiful Botanical Gardens Thanks for sharing my friend 🙂
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Thanks for visiting, friend. 😀
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Beautiful shots!
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Thanks – I appreciate your visit so very much. 🙂
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love the title – glad you hid behind your camera!
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🙂
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There certainly is a difference between the soul of an introvert and an extrovert. I’m an introvert and my husband is an extrovert. He can move seamlessly between people and events, while I prefer a time to recharge. Love the little seating area.
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It looks wonderful Pat! Especially Botanical 140!
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Beautiful series of images Pat 😀
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Thanks, Joe. I had fun taking them and then processing them for the post.
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