silence.....

I find solace in the tranquillity now that my words have ceased. Once, I clung tightly to them, believing they defined me. Yet, in this silence, in this expanse, the 'in-between' has elongated into an expansive realm. Rather than feeling adrift, I am deeply anchored and connected. What once demanded urgent expression now feels excessive. Words seem inadequate to capture existence. Perhaps I've reached a point in my journey where silence no longer needs filling—I embrace the quiet with newfound comfort.

The old world has faded, yielding to lighter times where we wield the power to shape our reality. Experience now takes precedence over words. This shift entails following the heart and engaging solely in activities that evoke joy, vitality, and upliftment. Surround yourself with kindred spirits who understand and uplift you. If it resonates, pursue it. This is our time to thrive.

the many colours of shanti...........

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Many ask, Would we 'Souls of Byron' meet with 'The Bangalow Cowboy'? The notion was amusing, given Shanti's also being known as the 'Mullum Cowboy'. It seems everyone wishes to lay claim to this vibrant soul.

Speculations abound, whispered among locals. We were intrigued to delve deeper into one of our most sought-after personalities. Shanti arrived promptly, impeccably attired as usual, sporting his iconic 'hot pink' suit, cowboy hat, and enviable shoes. He remains a captivating enigma, even after our interaction.

While few truly comprehend him, both locals and visitors find Shanti alluring, approachable, and always willing to converse. He infuses our streets with vibrancy and levity. Often spotted traversing long distances on foot, cane in hand, or hitching rides on our rugged roads, Shanti's presence seems omnipresent, like a colourful time-traveller.

Shanti is a soul on his unique journey, adorned with hues brighter and more stylish than the rest. He possesses a narrative spanning from darkness to light, enriching our understanding of human resilience.

Throughout our 'Souls' project, we have observed that adversity serves as the alchemy forging character. The deeper one delves into the shadows, the more potential for transformation—a process akin to transmuting lead into gold. The essence of man lies in his ascent.

Shanti represents another thread in the intricate tapestry adorning our land. Articulate and courteous, he graciously acknowledges curious onlookers. Behind his trademark sunglasses lie depths waiting to be explored, accompanied by captivating stories. Highly intelligent, his musings on life are thought-provoking. As for the book he always carries? He's studying web development—a 'life technician' coaching, multilingual, and injecting vibrancy wherever he goes.

Many questions were posed and answered in his typical cryptic manner. Do you have children? "We are all God's children." Your outfits? "God dresses me." Family? "We are all family." A car? "Look at all my cars," he says with a wink, gesturing at passing vehicles. "I have many drivers too." And so it continued—a captivating encounter leaving me enchanted by Shanti's presence.

Indeed, Shanti's charm graces our world. It's worth experiencing his vibrancy in our towns—Bangalow, Mullum, Bruns, Byron—he'll be there. Our resident cowboy.

art of living.......

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Our encounter with Craig was expected to be as serene and gentle as the man himself. Arriving early at our meeting spot, we were greeted by the rhythmic melody of waves crashing against the shore and a cool breeze brushing through the air. Amidst the stunning mandalas and intricate sand art, Craig was nowhere to be seen. Elie and I silently admired the masterpieces, careful not to disturb what felt like works of art.

Suddenly, emerging from among the rocks, was Craig, clad in shades of blue, with a rake slung over his shoulder. Here was the soul we sought. Craig explained that he often retreated after creating his sand art, emphasizing the importance of integrating each piece. "Each drawing is a spiritual healing, sometimes even a rebirthing," he explained, highlighting the demanding nature of his craft.

For over two decades, Craig has graced Main Beach Byron Bay with his artistry, earning recognition both locally and globally. When asked why Main Beach, his response was simple yet profound: "I want to share with as many people as possible." His genuine mission is to spread love through his creations. Craig's process is intuitive; he does not plan what to draw but allows the images to flow through him as he guides his rake through the sand. It's a mystical experience, one that Craig humbly accepts as part of his being.

Remarkably, Craig harbours no attachment to his creations—a testament to his deep understanding of non-attachment to material things. "I'm in love with life, and life loves me," he shares, emphasizing the importance of giving without expecting anything in return.

I'm struck by the recurring theme in our Souls project—the pursuit of happiness through service and passion rather than external validation. Those who radiate the most joy are driven by an internal compass, guides them towards their true passions. It's in this space that magic truly happens.

Spell & The Gypsy Collective

We yearn for authenticity, a tether back to who we innately are. Many of us would forsake illusory perfection for a flawed yet rich tapestried life. Our innate curiosity, our quest for authenticity, is ingrained in our being. Traveling through life isn't always picturesque; true beauty often resides in the messy, the imperfect. Spell's genesis was humble, born from the passion of down-to-earth sisters whose creations have become integral to our community.

What I speak of isn't contrived; it's a rare find. Spell's essence evokes memories of my childhood in the '70s, reminiscent of simpler times. Living amidst nature, I rediscover the quietude and connection I longed for amidst the city's chaos. It takes me back to a time when life moved slower, unadorned, allowing me to listen to the whispers of the land and the yearnings of my heart.

Sometimes, inspiration lies in the smallest details—a texture, a print. We tread carefully in a world of consumerism, mindful of the balance between possessions that stir our souls and the superficial.

nectar of life......

"What The One in you is truly looking for, is the nectar of life itself:
to find the fullest, grandest, most complete expression possible.
And that defines the purpose of your soul.
And there is absolutely nothing else going on. Ever!"

Openhand

souls......

A true master follows her own footprints, encoded within her before she arrived in this incarnation. Someone else may remind her, someone else may in-power her, but noone else can possibly know the unique contours of her own true-path. Only soul knows the path it is here to walk. The next step is right there inside of you, divinely imprinted on the souls of your feet. Jeff Brown

forgiveness

Devastation, pain, and loss often act as catalysts for cracking your heart open. Yet, it’s the act of forgiving those who participated in such pain, devastation, and loss that truly opens your heart to the point where it cannot close again. This doesn’t mean you need to trust those who betrayed you, or act as if you’re ok with the circumstances in view. Instead, forgiveness is a moment of existential gratitude where you find the depth, courage, and strength to thank each character in sight for the role they play in the evolution of your consciousness. 

Even when forgiveness invites you to thank the things you’d rather oppose, judge, or deny, only gifts of healing are offered when your willingness to change frees you from demanding change from anything or anyone else. You don’t have to like what has happened, or even love the circumstances you face, in order to thank the Spirit within each character for bringing exactly what you needed to shine as never before. Shining your light doesn’t necessarily mean feeling wonderful all the time, but being aware of a deeper spiritual reality blossoming throughout the ups and downs of life. 

Whether you’re aware of this deeper reality or not, you always deserve more love, not less. This is the heart of transformation. Matt Kahn.

we are here...

"We are here to peel of all the layers that cover our true Nature, 
we are here to unravel our Soul. During our life we will come to the realization that all hate and destruction is born out of disconnection. We are here to find our ways back to Love. Our wounds are the doors to enter true Greatness. "  Tara Isis Gerris

Ikigai

I've always been drawn to the concept of Ikigai, a Japanese term encompassing one's destiny, purpose, and role in creation. Discovering our Ikigai begins with understanding ourselves—peeling away layers to reveal our true essence. This life is meant to be lived joyously, infused with meaning as we contribute to the greater whole.

Somewhere along the journey, I lost sight of this truth. Ignoring the wisdom of my heart, I lived predominantly from my mind, driven by a relentless pursuit of some elusive destination. Looking back, I realize many decisions were motivated by a need to become someone, to achieve something.

Observing my children play, I'm struck by their innate ability to be fully present. When did I lose that sense of playfulness? When did layers of fear and self-preservation overshadow my existence? The world is undergoing profound shifts, recognizing the inadequacy of old paradigms. Our collective struggles—depression, addiction, disconnection—are symptoms of our detachment from self, family, planet, tribe, and Ikigai.

No longer do material possessions or distractions fill the void within. The constraints of societal conditioning and ancestral patterns are crumbling, urging us to seek soul-nourishing experiences. Emotions, once suppressed, now surface as anxiety, frustration, and anger—signposts guiding us back to our core truth, our Ikigai.

Amidst the chaos, truth emerges, birthing the new as old structures collapse. I'm reminded that life is meant to be a soulful journey of passion, adventure, and love. May we all rediscover our true selves.

{Byron Palm Reader}

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it doesn't interest me...

It doesn't interest me what you do for a living. I want to know what you ache for, and if you dare to dream of meeting your heart's longing. 

It doesn't interest me how old you are. I want to know if you will risk looking like a fool for love, for your dream, for the adventure of being alive. 

It doesn't interest me what planets are squaring your moon. I want to know if you have touched the center of your own sorrow, if you have been opened by life's betrayals or have become shriveled and closed from fear of further pain!I want to know if you can sit with pain, mine or your own, without moving to hide it or fade it, or fix it. 

I want to know if you can be with joy, mine or your own, if you can dance with wildness and let the ecstasy fill you to the tips of your fingers and toes without cautioning us to be careful, to be realistic, to remember the limitations of being human. 

It doesn't interest me if the story you are telling me is true. I want to know if you can disappoint another to be true to yourself; if you can bear the accusation of betrayal and not betray your own soul; if you can be faithlessand therefore trustworthy. 

I want to know if you can see beauty even when it's not pretty, every day,and if you can source your own life from its presence. 

I want to know if you can live with failure, yours and mine, and still stand on the edge of the lake and shout to the silver of the full moon, “Yes!”

It doesn't interest me to know where you live or how much money you have. I want to know if you can get up, after the night of grief and despair, weary and bruised to the bone, and do what needs to be done to feed the children. 

It doesn't interest me who you know or how you came to be here. I want to know if you will stand in the center of the fire with me and not shrink back. 

It doesn't interest me where or what or with whom you have studied. I want to know what sustains you, from the inside, when all else falls away. 

I want to know if you can be alone with yourself and if you truly like the company you keep in the empty moments. 

Oriah Mountain Dreamer

Sea Shepherd

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For years, I've been eager to capture Adam's essence. As the local head of Sea Shepherd, his face bears the tales of the sea—a map of adventures and exploration. He exudes the aura of a seasoned captain—confident, passionate, and outspoken. It's hard to believe that he was once shy, as he stands before us now, a stalwart defender of our oceans.

Standing at the forefront of conservation efforts, Adam embodies the conviction and determination needed to protect our planet. Faced with ignorance and indifference, he tirelessly spreads the message, knowing that change will come. Established in 1977, Sea Shepherd is dedicated to preserving marine ecosystems and species for future generations.

Adam's work has yielded tangible results—he speaks of increased awareness and victories against whaling and poaching. His passion extends beyond saving "cute whales and creatures"; it's about safeguarding our oceans, the very foundation of our planet.

Reflecting on his conservation journey, Adam recalls the community's collective efforts to protect Terranium Creek—a testament to the power of grassroots activism. In a world that often demands conformity, this community stands firm, driven by a deep connection to the land and a sense of moral duty.

As Adam contemplates expanding Sea Shepherd's reach to land conservation, it's evident that the organization's impact knows no bounds. Volunteers from around the globe risk their lives in service of our planet—a profound act of selflessness.

Adam's humility shines through as he insists that the focus should be on Sea Shepherd, not on him. For him, it's not about individual recognition but about the collective mission to save our planet. His words resonate—a reminder that we're all in this together.

chrysalis.....

“We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty. ”

— Maya Angelou

In this moment, gratitude fills my being—a sentiment often echoed: "Be grateful for what you have; focus on the positive." Yet, amidst the darkness, finding gratitude proved elusive. Well-intentioned words sometimes deepened my struggles, leading to shame spirals. However, setting aside forced positivity allowed space for authenticity, where the soul could work its magic. Dropping expectations, I surrendered, trusting in the natural flow of life.

Today, I feel a sense of emergence, stepping into the light once more. Clarity and inner strength guide me as I embrace my journey. Like a caterpillar in its chrysalis, transformation unfolds steadily. For those still cocooned, healing unfolds in its own time—be gentle, knowing others hold space for you.

In this moment, I cherish:

The sacred space of my garden

Beginnings

Connection

Being truly seen

Closure and new chapters

Warmth of a fire

Sunlight painting golden hues across the sky

Rainbows

Love notes

Lego in my bed

Changing of seasons

Tender moments shared with loved ones

Deeply woven connection with community

Sweetness of kisses

Adventures

Poetry

Lessons learned and growth experienced

Love—radiant, boundless, eternal.

Well kissed lips

Gathering with my little ones

Collecting fruits, berries and bones

Harvesting

Love, love, love

{Mr Vintage}

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In approaching our photographic adventures, I embrace a mindset of openness and clarity, devoid of judgment and liberated from expectation. Reflecting on my encounter with "Mr. Vintage," I confess to harboring preconceived notions—imagining a middle-aged vintage enthusiast, perhaps a bit serious and rigid. Yet, as our spontaneous shoot unfolded, my assumptions dissolved into the ether, replaced by an unexpected delight.

Unlike our usual meticulously planned sessions, our rendezvous with Mr. Vintage was impromptu and free-flowing—an exercise in improvisation and spontaneity, which often yields the most magical results.

On a crisp Friday morning, we descended upon a trendy Byron warehouse, greeted by a gathering of effortlessly cool individuals basking in the sunlight. Among them stood Mr. Vintage, or rather Nathan Galatopoulos, a vibrant and adventurous soul exuding youthful exuberance. As he scaled warehouse walls and reclined amidst racks of clothing, it became evident that he was more than just a vivacious party companion.

Throughout the shoot, Nathan revealed layers of depth and wisdom beyond his years—a man of purpose, direction, and clarity at the tender age of 26. His generosity of spirit and adventurous nature left an indelible impression on us, infusing the day with vibrancy and life.

Departing from our encounter, we carried with us not only the tangible gifts Nathan bestowed upon us but also a renewed sense of vitality and appreciation for life's unexpected treasures. Among these treasures was Nick Cunningham's album "Letters," a gift that continues to resonate deeply, its tracks serving as a soundtrack to my days. (Link: http://www.nickcunningham.com.au)

Mullum Herbals

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“You have to seize the moment, close the door!" exclaimed one of the girls, urging us into action. And so we did, attempting to capture a fleeting moment amid the bustling activity of closing a popular shop. Yet, even as the doors closed for barely two minutes, a queue of eager customers began forming outside, impatiently knocking.

As someone who savours taking my time, especially with group shots—an aspect not particularly within my expertise—I am learning to embrace the spontaneity of the moment, understanding that perfection often lies in imperfection. My critical eye is gradually softening, allowing me to surrender to the whimsical and adventurous nature of our endeavours. Each photograph carries its own unique identity, reflecting the essence of the subject matter and the journey undertaken.

From its humble origins in 1994, Mullum Herbals has blossomed into a thriving organic dispensary nestled in the heart of town—a beloved icon attracting visitors from far and wide. Owned by Val, Jacinta, and Elvian, Mullum Herbals was founded with a mission to provide alternative healthcare and foster employment opportunities for the community.

"It's a very intimate environment," explains Val, underscoring their commitment to personal growth and spirituality. Over the years, Mullum Herbals has evolved into more than just a store—it has become a social hub, a place where individuals converge to seek advice, solace, and community connection.

Elvian's poignant perspective highlights the depth and intelligence prevalent within the local community, challenging misconceptions of the town being merely a haven for "hippies." Their dedication to client confidentiality and their unwavering commitment to holistic healing testify to their integrity and respect for their patrons.

As the community's awareness and education regarding natural healing methods continue to grow, Mullum Herbals stands as a beacon of empowerment, encouraging individuals to take charge of their health and well-being. The reciprocal trust and respect shared between Mullum Herbals and the community underscore a profound partnership—one built on mutual support and reverence.

In this symbiotic relationship, both parties enrich each other's lives, fostering a sense of unity and belonging. It is a bond to be cherished and celebrated—a testament to the enduring spirit of collaboration and compassion.

{Fire mane}

Fire Mane embodies a powerful force, a woman fueled by a mission engraved in her heart. From the very first time I heard Chrissy speak, her words resonated like a clarion call to action. I was captivated, sensing an immediate and profound familiarity in her voice—a palpable presence of healing medicine. Sitting among the audience, I sensed an undeniable pull towards our eventual convergence. It felt as though we were blessed—or perhaps fated—to embark on a sacred pilgrimage to Peru together.

Chrissy, or Fire Mane, as she is known, possesses an unwavering determination that transcends mere words. She not only speaks her truth but lives it out loud. There were moments when I found myself overwhelmed by her boundless energy and relentless action. Yet, amidst it all, Fire Mane has imparted upon me a profound lesson: the beauty of walking our own unique path and remaining true to ourselves. She has shown me that our diversity is our most precious gift.

At times, I have grappled with the question: am I doing enough for the world? While I navigate the complexities of daily life, Chrissy fearlessly stands on the frontlines of protests, her unwavering commitment a testament to her dedication. She has served as a mirror, offering me one of life's most profound teachings: that life is not a race, and there is no destination to reach. Simply being who we are and sharing our unique essence with the world is enough.

During my time in the underground temple in Peru, Fire Mane embraced me. Together, we sang the ancient songs, and she bestowed upon me the gift of sound healing atop the mountain, serenading my soul and beckoning my fragmented parts back home. This pivotal moment marked a significant milestone in my journey towards wholeness, for which I hold deep gratitude.

From the very moment I laid eyes on Chrissy there was a stirring within—a recognition of her power to effect change on a global scale. Fire Mane is here to disrupt, to challenge, and to transform.

Musings......

The voice I recently mentioned is resurfacing, prompting questions about the direction of the Souls of Byron project. Is it acceptable to intertwine personal reflections? Should the focus solely be on the encounters between souls? How did this venture become so intimately entwined with my own experiences? Did I naively anticipate that our selected souls would bare their souls without me doing the same? Will my writing ever remain straightforward, discussing mere weather or offering brief soul biographies? Or is it destined to delve into deep introspection, revealing my innermost thoughts for all to see? Only time will tell. For now, I trust in the authenticity of what I offer. My words may not resonate with everyone, but perhaps within them, someone will find a spark of recognition or inspiration. Perhaps they will serve as a catalyst for self-discovery or offer solace to others on their own journeys.

a crack in everything............

“Ring the bells that still can ring, Forget your perfect offering, There is a crack in everything. Thats how the light gets in. ”

— Leonard Cohen

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The recent Souls shoots have been profound, intricate, and challenging. I search for the right words, feeling that any attempt falls short of capturing the essence.

Souls of Byron transcends any previous project I've undertaken. It permeates every corner, every facet of my life. Engaging deeply with souls, absorbing their stories and emotions, leaves an indelible mark. These threads intertwine with Elie's and my lives, profoundly impacting us both.

For the first time, I see others without the veils we typically wear. Peeling back layers, I unearth gold amidst insecurities and quirks. Embracing my own darkness and imperfections has enabled me to love my authentic self—frayed edges and all. In doing so, I now behold others through the lens of my heart, seeing their messy, intense, delightful humanity.

True beauty resides in imperfection; flaws are the badges of our shared humanity. I'm drawn to faces etched with stories, eyes that unveil lifetimes. Share your scars, your tales; reveal your entirety. Embracing our entirety liberates us, for it is the sum of our parts that makes us unique.

Like Kintsugi, where broken pottery is repaired with gold, our fractures become pathways to greater beauty and depth. The authenticity of being human overwhelms me, as I marvel at the courage and complexity inherent in our existence. To all who bravely show up, keep shining your light.

quote.....

“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” -Howard Thurman

friendship....

Expanding upon my gratitude list, I feel compelled to express my deep appreciation for the profound connection and friendship I share with my "Souls of Byron" sister. In this moment, I want to honour this exceptional soul, Elie, who is the very heart and essence of Souls. Without her, this project would not have blossomed into the enchanting journey it has become. Elie was the visionary behind "Souls," a clear conduit for the inspired vision. Together, we embody a unique alchemy, united in our desire to create beauty and forge connections in the world. Our bond is fortified by honesty and trust, forming the bedrock of our partnership. I always knew I was meant to be her co-creator, the chosen counterpart in this endeavour.

I am endlessly grateful for Elie's intuition, which has guided us through the twists and turns of our "Souls" journey. True friendship is a beacon of grace, offering understanding and compassion when one of us needs to retreat for a while. We hold space for each other, supporting and uplifting one another in times of need. Through our friendship, I am learning the true meaning of love—being seen and cherished for who I am, even when I forget my own worth and contribution to the world. Elie's unwavering belief in me, and her recognition of my talent, creativity, and inner radiance, have been a constant source of strength and inspiration. She embodies humility, generosity, and purity of heart, with a delicate balance of softness and strength. Her profound wisdom and self-awareness empower her to shape her own reality, while her devotion to her family is a testament to her boundless love and commitment. Elie's zest for life, her passion, enthusiasm, and reverence for every moment, continually touch, move, and inspire me.

I am grateful for the adventure we embark upon together, for with Elie, it has always been about the journey. My dear friend, I feel immensely blessed by your presence in my life, and I am grateful beyond words to call you not only a friend but also family. I love you dearly. Expanding upon my gratitude list, I feel compelled to express my deep appreciation for the profound connection and friendship I share with my "Souls of Byron" sister. In this moment, I want to honour this exceptional soul, Elie, who is the very heart and essence of Souls. Without her, this project would not have blossomed into the enchanting journey it has become. Elie was the visionary behind "Souls," a clear conduit for the inspired vision. Together, we embody a unique alchemy, united in our desire to create beauty and forge connections in the world. Our bond is fortified by honesty and trust, forming the bedrock of our partnership. I always knew I was meant to be her co-creator, the chosen counterpart in this endeavour.

I am endlessly grateful for Elie's intuition, which has guided us through the twists and turns of our "Souls" journey. True friendship is a beacon of grace, offering understanding and compassion when one of us needs to retreat for a while. We hold space for each other, supporting and uplifting one another in times of need. Through our friendship, I am learning the true meaning of love—being seen and cherished for who I am, even when I forget my own worth and contribution to the world. Elie's unwavering belief in me, and her recognition of my talent, creativity, and inner radiance, have been a constant source of strength and inspiration. She embodies humility, generosity, and purity of heart, with a delicate balance of softness and strength. Her profound wisdom and self-awareness empower her to shape her own reality, while her devotion to her family is a testament to her boundless love and commitment. Elie's zest for life, her passion, enthusiasm, and reverence for every moment, continually touch, move, and inspire me.

I am grateful for the adventure we embark upon together, for with Elie, it has always been about the journey. My dear friend, I feel immensely blessed by your presence in my life, and I am grateful beyond words to call you not only a friend but also family. I love you dearly.