A Way To Observe the World

The drawing assignment: toast a slice of bread. Draw what you see.

I look at the bread. Notice the shapes, the holes, the light and dark patterns.

I begin a mantra. Slow down. Don't rush. Use a pen. Start with the shape of the bread. Make certain that the line follows, meanders along the edges.

Forty minutes later and I finish drawing a third of the slice.

To really look at something takes time. To let my mind, eye, and hand travel across the surface means shutting out all distractions.

I placed the toasted bread in a sandwich bag. Tomorrow I'll continue.