REFER TO GREY: Contemplations by Robert Greigos © 2007-2024

We’ve all heard that phrase accusing someone, maybe even ourselves, of living inside a bubble. And, we all know what is meant, that we have allowed ourselves to become insulated, detached, protected from what is really going on around us. “Hear no evil, see no evil, speak no evil” is the epitome of life isolated from anything that might undermine our sense of wellbeing, clash with our preconceptions, or argue against our dearly held beliefs.

There is no God, you say? You are irrelevant. I have no interest in listening to you.

We are all God’s children? Bah, humbug. God favors those who choose wisely and who improve themselves. The rest will be left behind.

We will all be held responsible for the consequences of our actions? So you say. But I care only for what the consequences will be for me, right here, right now.

Diversity is strength? No, it is not. Diversity is chaos.

There is more to learn? I don’t think so. I have learned enough. I know all I need to know.

Yes, there are many ways to erect a wall and huddle ourselves inside. The question is: is that a good thing? Good for us as individuals? Good for society as a whole? Good even for the environment upon which we all depend?

It was reported this week that the oldest thickest most resilient arctic sea ice north of Greenland is breaking up amid strong winds and arctic temperatures that have risen above 60 degrees Fahrenheit. That is concerning news to me. Is it for you?

Also reported this week was the discovery of an enzyme produced by a microbe inhabiting our guts that can change Type A red blood cells into Type O blood cells. Type O cells can be given to anyone in need of blood. Type A cannot. That was thrilling encouraging news for me. Does its importance even register with you?

Finally, scientists studying an unusual variety of corn found in Southern Mexico have now published their findings. That variety of corn secretes a sugary mucus from hairs on its roots that microbes in the soil feed on, producing nitrogen fertilizer as a waste product that the corn plant uses to grow. No extra runoff producing fertilizer needed. Now that is cool news. What do you think?

Regarding the images above, at left is a slimy film on a wooded coniferous swampy area next to a lake. Gases produced by small plants growing in the water have produced bubbles in the film within which the plants continue to grow until they finally poke through to open air. Kind of cool, don’t you think?

And at right, Spanish moss hangs down over branches of cedar trees lining the lake, upon which two mostly oblivious fisherman angle in the sparkling waters.

Bubbles, you say? We all live within bubbles beyond which our attentions fade. Given the limitations of our brains, that is to be expected. But, I don’t think it advisable to allow that fact to limit our curiosity or inhibit our courage to investigate.

May the last weeks of your summer be both enlightening and spiritually enriching.