Kirk blAug

Today was a whirlwind of tension, beginning with an anxiety-inducing co-parenting counseling appointment. To add to the strain, a complex problem at work presented itself as an unyielding puzzle, contributing another layer of stress to my already fraught day. In search of solace, I turned to my meditation practice, hoping to find balance in its calming repetition. When a single session didn't suffice, I doubled down, giving myself over to the practice a second time. Seeking further release, I laced up my running shoes and set out with Goat, my loyal companion, for a run that I hoped would clear my mind as effectively as it would energize my body. However, it wasn't until the responsibilities of work and the weight of the appointment had lifted that I truly found my escape. I delved into the virtual worlds of video games—a realm where stress and reality dissolve into pixelated adventures. Today, I lost myself in the creativity of Tsunami's Mario Maker level, then transitione

On a crisp morning, I embarked on a solo run to Laumeier Sculpture Park, a sanctuary where art and environment converse in silent splendor. With each visit, I discover new layers of meaning within its vast, open spaces. Today, I revisited familiar sculptures, each resonating with memories and inviting reflection on their deeper meanings. The park's verdant paths led me to Tony Tasset's 'Eye,' an oversized, hyper-realistic eyeball sculpture that commands attention. Its unblinking gaze seems to challenge the observer, a reminder of the omnipresence of nature and the constant observation we're under in today's society. It's as if the 'Eye' encourages a deeper introspection, a call to look within as much as it looks out onto the world. Not far from this arresting vision is Alexander Liberman's 'The Way,' a towering assembly of red cylinders that reach skyward in a complex yet harmonious arrangement. Even as it undergoes renovations, it stands

This morning's journey with Goat, my steadfast four-legged companion, led us to the Lewis and Clark trail system in Weldon Spring, a place that holds a special spot in my heart. On a whim, I decided to break the routine and traverse the Lewis loop in the opposite, clockwise direction. This slight deviation from the norm felt like a refreshing change of perspective, a small rebellion against the expected. As we reached the point where the Lewis and Clark trails diverge, I chose the path less traveled by us lately — the Clark loop. The decision proved serendipitous. Away from my usual favorite bluff on Lewis, I stumbled upon a new bluff accessible from Clark. There, enveloped by the stillness, I paused to meditate. The tranquility was palpable, seeping into my very being and carrying through the rest of my run. The trails were quiet, with the overcast sky and brisk air deterring most from venturing outdoors. For Goat, this meant the freedom of roaming off-leash, a joy mirrored in his