How does color affect you?

Color's Impact

“Think of all the different animals and the differences in how they see color. Some don't see color at all, others see a few colors, others see lots. Some monkeys, for example, see red quite poorly. Birds and bees see color way into the ultra-violet range. Other animals see color way down into the infrared range. Humans are blind to both. So it could seem like color is clearly in the eye of the beholder.”

Ken Taylor (Philosophy Talk Website; The Philosopher's Corner)

Can you imagine what it would be like not to see colors? What richness would be lost to you if your color range was limited to the primary colors of red, yellow and blue? Looking out from my porch right now, I can see at least ten shades of green, an entire spectrum of browns and yellows, four or five hues of sky blues, several depths of shadow grays, and that's just in the natural environment. Even people who cannot physically see color, can feel it, can imagine it, have perhaps some genetic memory of it stored in their cells.

Color is metaphysical. It evokes moods, affects our nervous system, and alters our perceptions. We speak of blues and greens and purples as cool colors, reds and oranges and yellows as warm. Warm colors evoke closeness, they feel cozy. They cause large spaces to seem more intimate. Cool colors recede, they calm and soothe; they make a small space seem larger, even though it isn't. Entire books are written on the perceptions people hold about red-haired people—hot tempered, sultry, passionate, dangerous. And blondes—well, we won't even go there! There is a reason people wear black for mourning, white for weddings, and red for...certain other things. Perceptions.

The ability to see colors is a gift we should never take for granted. Today, put down your technology and look around you. Check out your fellow human beings and what they're wearing. What comes immediately to mind? Notice both the spectacular and the subtle beauty of creation. We are entering the most colorful season of the year, a delight for the eyes. Mother Nature is about to celebrate her Fall Festival, and you're invited!

                                                                In the Spirit,

                                                                      Jane