"If you let yourself go, you will see God in that bird."

Your Friday photo…

Guest caretaker Juan Mendez photographed this turkey vulture in flight over Meher Mount. His comments about seeing God in nature are from his interview for the documentary film, Tree of Fire: A Story of Love and Resilience.

“If you let yourself go, you will see God in that bird.”

— Juan Mendez, Photographer and Guest Caretaker

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The following is an excerpt from Juan Mendez’s interview for Tree of Fire, the documentary film about Baba’s Tree at Meher Mount:

“Maybe one day Baba’s Tree will not be here, and we will be sad if we are alive at that time. But we have to remember God is above everything.

“You will find a way to connect to Him. You see a fox or you feel the breeze against in your face. That's a manifestation of God. So you just have to open your heart to to see that, to feel it.

“That’s why Avatar Meher Baba said you can appreciate God in nature. Trees, the wind, the birds, the fox, the turkey vultures are nature. If you take your time at Meher Mount, you're going to see species walking around or flying.

“You'll see the birds are majestic as they fly over you and fly over Baba’s Tree. So you're seeing God. If if you let yourself go, you will see God in that bird.”

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Tree of Fire: A Story of Love and Resilience

Tree of Fire is a heartfelt story of loss, survival, and spiritual connection. After a devastating fire, a once-thriving oak – blessed by Avatar Meher Baba – rises from the ashes to offer love and solace. The survival of Baba’s Tree becomes a living symbol of resilience and Divine love. Through personal testimonies, archival footage, and breathtaking imagery, the film invites viewers to rediscover their own capacity for healing, transformation, and spiritual awakening. Click here for festival screenings.

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"There's something magical that occurs when light shines on ordinary objects."

Your Friday photo...

Agnes Montano captured the sunlight emanating from a glorious sunrise as it reflected on the veranda at Meher Mount’s Visitor Center.

Looking outwards from the picture window in the reception area: The shadows of two Adirondack chairs, a small side table, a vase, bird decals on the window (used to deter birds from flying into the glass), and the branches of a Toyon tree are reflected on the sunshade, bringing to life this serene scene.

It is reminiscent of the softness, grace and elegance of an Asian silk screen painting.

“There’s something magical that occurs when light shines on ordinary everyday objects.

They can be transformed into beautiful aesthetic scenes.

Avatar Meher Baba’s light has that transformative effect in those that seek Him”

— Agnes Montano, Board Member, Meher Mount

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"I'm more of a sunset admirer..."

Your Friday photo…

Bing Heckman, volunteer and Meher Mount founding board member, spent a week as a temporary caretaker this summer. Here are his musings and Friday photo…

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“Sunrise. I look out the window, but I’m not getting up yet. I’m more of a sunset admirer. That said, the sunrise exudes serenity and awakening.”

— Bing Heckman, Founding Board Member

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When I arrived, it struck me that Meher Mount is very well cared for and maintained. I also saw that it’s teeming with life. 

There are many bird species, no doubt attracted by the birdfeeders and birdbaths. All are busy scurrying about landing, feeding, gathering, and dispersing. Some of the hummingbirds chase others off, defending a given feeder.

The lizards, butterflies, bees, and squirrels are also flying or running about. 

One is drawn to take time to listen to the sounds of the birds and a wind chime and to feel the gentle breeze. Maybe just sit and watch a hummingbird leisurely feed at the feeder.  

Breaking away from my routines at home, a quiet, leisurely pace emerges. At first, not sure what to do, but the day unfolds.

Time to think and reflect without distraction.

A new rhythm of the day comes about.

After a few days, one sees that the colorful California Orioles, crows, and other animals have their daily rhythms and routines, too.

Birds begin stirring at sunrise. After being active and a bit ruckus all day, they settle in about a half hour before sunset. There is quiet, but for an occasional chirp. 

Sunrise, I look out the window, but I’m not getting up yet. I’m more of a sunset admirer. That said, the sunrise exudes serenity and awakening.

There is no neglecting practical matters, just allowing a bit more space in between, managing to sit, listen, and see what is around. 

Is this a spiritual place? Everywhere is. This place just helps one see that. 

~Bing Heckman, Founding Board Member & Temporary Caretaker

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