Today at the first day of my Telluride Mountain Film Festival experience, I engaged with Eel/Water/Rock/Man. This short seven minute film made by Hal Clifford and Jackson Houston looks at the rich yet simple life of a Delaware River eel farmer named Ray.

The concept of enough.

Ray is a bearded 62 year old man who is living the life he knows to be true. He tells film makers the concept of “enough” is one people have trouble grasping, especially with the “American dream” of being a joyous self made millionaire. This idea creates an illusion that so many of us fall into. There is a sense that we can always do better, join on more cause, or go on one more extreme adventure. But what do we really need to feel satisfied?

Let us become more aware of our spiritual needs and be able to notice when they are fulfilled. Noting the continuous flowing greed that often defines America Ray entreats us to take a step back and attempt to find clarity in the way we live. The film’s crisp and vibrant images convey the ease and balance in one man’s passion.

For me this film prompted the thought:

How do you cultivate a true sense of contentment?

Inspired by Ray this is what I came up with:

1. Live life in accordance with cycles of the natural world.

Within the past year I’ve began developing a new internal sense of the world by bringing my awareness to the cycles of the moon. Noticing the effects of Earth’s giant partner in crime allows me to more intuitively understand the ebbs and flow of my emotions and those of the world. For Ray his life is dependent on the rains, winds, and seasons of the river.

2. Meditate. Just do it.

(As the street artist in Telluride like to stencil)

3. Give Thanks.

This simple act fundamentally grounds us. Every event here at Mountain Film the speakers, and film makers consciously aim to extend their gratitude to those who inspired and contributed to their creative process.

How do you find serenity in the living chaos?

Please share your personal tips/tricks with the elephant community!

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Emily is passionate about creative expression, hugs, breathing, traveling, and experiencing the natural world. She plays, sings, and dances in the magical mountains of Boulder, Colorado.  Follow her on Twitter.