May Haiga

Published at World Haiku Association

Sacred Heart Mission

The grounds of the Sacred Heart Mission are one of the hidden jewels of history and photography in Oklahoma. There is always a sense of pervading peace as soon as I pass the gate and begin walking in. There seems to be a difference in the light at the Mission, as well. It is just a little warmer, a bit clearer and softer at the same time. There is a timeless feel that comes over me as well. I do not understand how any of this works – just know that it is a common experience the many times I have been there. And somehow it manifest in the photographs I make. Maybe I am more peaceful and methodical in my shooting. Maybe things do slow down to where I can actually see them.
So when you go make sure you have plenty of time because you will certainly lose track of it. And do not be surprised if maybe your images feel timeless.

Near Konowa, Pottawatomie County, Oklahoma the Sacred Heart Mission was founded in 1877 to meet the needs of the recently relocated Citizen Band Potawatomi Indians. On Sunday, May 13, 1877, the first Mass at Sacred Heart was held under the open sky. The mission eventually consisted of a monastery, boys' school, girls' school, convent, college, and church. Sacred Heart Monastery for many years was the center of Catholicism in Oklahoma.

On the night of January 15, 1901, a fire broke out in the dining room of the Indian Boys School and swept out of control. The entire mission was destroyed with the exception of a few small buildings. The bakery and the two-story log cabin are the only buildings that remain today.

Spring Haiga

Spring

HDR of Mountain Boomer in the Wichita Mountain Wildlife Refuge
In Oklahoma you know Spring is here when you see Scissor-Tailed Flycatchers, Meadow Larks, Dogwoods in bloom and Mountain Boomers.

Oh, and your favorite TV show being interrupted for severe weather updates.

A Special Refuge

"Feeling and photographing what causes feeling is no assurance that others will feel. But after once discovering what one wants to arouse in other people, the knowledge that one may frequently fumble in trying is only a challenge." ---- Minor White

Mounts Sheridan & Roosevelt

Jed Johnson Lake

I have been spending a fair amount of time lately exploring and photographing in the Wichita Mountain Wildlife Refuge. The Refuge is for animals but I have been going there to retreat, relax and recharge for many years.
I believed I knew all about making a good landscape picture. Now, I again realize that I need constant practice and refocusing. For good and not so good reasons as well as some legitimate and some spurious causes I was out of touch with my photography. But, slowly the concentration and patience to work in a way that for me leads to good photographs is returning. I have stopped trying to see or do too much. Go to every place that I liked or where I knew there might be photo opportunities. I got the old, heavy tripod out and lug it around so that when I go to a place I take time to explore it visually and thoughtfully. I watch the animals and the way they interact with each other and their environment. I watch the Light, and I pay attention to what it is that is interesting and attracting me. I strive to be open to the questions that each moment and location poses and the multitude of answers that each image provides. I am reconnecting with photoself and the natural environment.

Thank goodness for the Refuges of this world.