Day 138 "RADical Days" 2015/Phipps Conservatory at night

Orchard Room

In Maslow’s theory appreciating beauty is a subset of  acquiring self- esteem which is on his pyramid that leads to  self-actualization on the top. There is no better place in Pittsburgh to appreciate natural beauty than at Phipps Conservatory. As I noted in Day 35, I have been to the Phipps many times, however this time was my first time going  at night, going for free during Pittsburgh’s "RADical Days,” and sharing the beauty with my mother.

Broderie Room

"RADical Days"  are a  yearly Pittsburgh celebration of its parks, sports facilities, and arts and cultural organizations. Admissions to various  places in town and various performances are offered without charge to the public funded by Allegheny Regional Assets District (RAD). This year's events are from Sep 18th to Oct 11th. Therefore, at 6 pm on a Monday night my mother and I decided to   explore Phipps Conservatory since it would be open until 8 pm as a RADical Days event.

Giant Lilly pads/Victoria Room

Reflection

The conservatory  had a very  different feel at night. It seemed to  exude mystery. In the tropical room I felt as if I was  exploring  a jungle in the moon light. I also had a sense of peace in many of the rooms which sparked with lighted glass sculptures among the foliage. 

Desert Room

It was a great way to spend a Monday evening.  My mother’s excitement was infectious as she pointed at different plants, commenting on the shape or size of their leaves and  asking for her picture in  almost every room. We laughed when we were spooked in the butterfly room as the conservatory was  close to closing, dark, and almost deserted.

There is still time to check out the Radical Days event schedule. You may discover something new that you enjoy! I did. The conservatory is open every Friday until 10 pm. 

Mom in Desert Room

Spiritual Reflection

"And why worry about your clothes? Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don't work or make their clothing yet Solomon in all his glory was not able to dress as beautiful as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and gone tomorrow, won't he more surely care for you? You have so little faith!" (Matthew 6:28 to 30)

Other sources

 Phipps Conservatory https://phipps.conservatory.org/

Pittsburgh Radical Days http://radworkshere.org/pages/radical-days-2015
What is RAD http://www.radworkshere.org/pages/what-is-rad