People and institutions will inevitably disappoint us, but . . .

Lately I've been relearning an old lesson; namely, that people and institutions will inevitably disappoint us. I know too that others could say the same of me, even though I strive to minimize the suffering I cause as much as possible. The Gospel writers had it right when they reported of Jesus: "He entrusted himself fully to no person, for he knew what was in a person." Earlier this week a friend whom I respect immensely fed back to me my own words: "We only ever have 'God.' " And, I would add, the Goddess, Mother Earth, Sophia. When I truly embody this realization, then I'm able to maintain a lighter touch on people and as a result am empowered to enjoy their presence for what it truly is, in a relaxed, non-expectant manner.

Photos: (Top) Reflections and conifer pollen in Lake Solitude; (Middle) Pink Columbines with The Grand Teton in the background; (Bottom) Fog rolls in over The Grand Teton; Grand Teton National Park, WY, July 4-5, 2015