Bold Coast Reflections

Ah, the Bold Coast.

It can reveal itself in bold, magical ways.

It is deeply moving.

And sometimes terribly beautiful.

That said, it can also be close, intimate, and hard to fathom.

It can be wild, rugged, and remote.

For the longest time, I’ve struggled to reconcile the two. This is a place that can be hard to reach, both physically… and emotionally.

I can relate this to my own nature. I like showing my bright, colorful, and bold side to the world.

But, I must admit, I have a darker, more remote side, too.

My aversion to showing photographs that express this nature has been apparent. I guess this mirrors my attempts to run away from the anxiety and depression I’ve struggled with at different times in my life.

I seek awe, wonder, and beauty because I need them. I share what I find with the world because I know we all do. I also want that joy reflected back at me.

Lately, though, I can feel myself letting go a bit and embracing the darker themes.

I know I will always seek the light.

But, by accepting that there is also darkness, in the world and in me, I don’t have to hold so much tension.

Time and experience have shown me that the path out…

Is through.

My fun, playful, and sociable nature…

Can co-exist with my more serious, intense side.

It’s not all bright, sunny days.

And that’s okay.

When the fog is in, the sense of isolation can feel overwhelming.

But there can also be a sense of intimacy with everything that is nearby. Distances shrink.

I like to spend time looking up.

But I know there can be just as much beauty and wonder to behold looking down, too.

Thank you for reminding me, Downeast Maine.