John Muir, an influential Scottish-American Environmentalist and Author, was born in 1838. John was known as the ‘Father of the National Parks’ and was a strong advocate for the preservation of wilderness in the United States. A favorite quote from John that has special meaning to me is, “In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.” It is all about giving back. More information on John Muir’s life and contributions can be found here.
Giving back, in my humble opinion, is a cornerstone to a healthy life. We can give of ourselves in many ways and when we do, our lives become enriched. Consider the benefits of healthy relationships, be they spiritual, personal, employment, societal or with Nature. Today I will focus on the benefits of a healthy relationship with Nature.
Specks and Carrots
I spent my early years growing up on a farm. My constant companions on the farm were a dog and a cat, Specks (short for Speckles) and Carrots. Specks was a Collie mix and Carrots was . . . orange. Carrots was a typical farm Tom cat. He would tag along with Specks and I as we went out to explore the farm. Nature fascinated me! I’d collect interesting rocks, study insects, turn hay bales over in hopes of finding a snake or a mouse, and watch the ducks in the lake. For Specks, every outing was the best day of her life. Carrots was only in it for the mice. Very cat-like, was Carrots. Little did I realize at the time all those outings were giving back to me.
Giving back to Nature
My Father was a Farmer in those days. Watching him I learned the many ways we can give back to Nature, for good Farmers are also Environmentalists. Stewards of the land. We had some cattle on the farm and cattle create fertilizer. Dad “gave back” to the land with a most fascinating piece of equipment (at least it was fascinating to a five-year old boy!), the manure spreader! Wow, that machine was a marvel to behold when in action! But ultimately it’s purpose was designed to give back. (It also made a great tank when not in use as I played ‘army’.) Additionally, my Dad planted trees. LOTS of trees! I learned from that and continue to plant trees to this day. Giving back.
In Nature we find healing
Ever since my boyhood, I find myself returning to Nature. Long walks in the woods, or out on a lake in a canoe or rowboat. Wow! There is no finer experience for me. And that is why I photograph wildlife and nature. It is a healing experience many times over. First and foremost when I am afield capturing images that stir the senses and secondly (repeatedly) when I return and observe the photos. I view my photos daily. They serve to stir memories. They serve to draw me back into nature.
The sight of a sunrise or sunset – which no two are alike. The scent of Pine needles. Wind slipping across my face. The taste of spring water. The sound of a Cardinal in the early evening. All these things stir the senses while they stir memories. And it all comes back to the healing touch of Nature. Our minds can become overtaxed with an unpleasant situation. Nature offers respite that can lead to sustained well being. An opportunity for new growth. A place we can go to become strengthened and invigorated.
Deer!
I recall the first time I saw a Whitetail Deer. It was on a walk on the farm. I was walking alone this time – but I savored the solitude. Stumbling across a plowed field, looking for rocks in the overturned soil, when suddenly a great commotion snared my senses in the fence line ahead. What was it? A flash and a bound, and another bound. Gone. It was a deer! A beautiful Doe. I had never seen one before. Time stood still. I remember it like it was yesterday. I still feel the energy and joy from that moment in time. Nature continues to heal through our positive memories of those outdoor experiences.
Giving back to others
And that is why I decided to share my compositions with others. Giving back. I hope you find enjoyment and peace viewing my photos. I hope they stir positive memories for you and create a desire to get out in Nature where you will construct the foundations for new memories and renewed healing. We can take a beating in life. There are many types of stressors lurking along our journeys. Tamp those negative experiences down with a commute in Nature. Bring healing to your window into life. Find the Peace as you find Nature giving back to you.
Closing
Do you have your own special memories you would like to share in a comment on this Blog. Feel free to make a post. Do you wish to speak with me privately regarding my photos or posts? I can be reached here. Have you seen the GREAT sale I’m offering? There is more information about it in this post. Want to read another entry on Farm Life. You can do so here.
Take time this week to step out into Nature. Take in all it offers. Use all five senses if possible. Perhaps you can find a quiet place just to sit and meditate. Listen to the stillness. Feel the calm. Smell nothing but the air’s calming scent. Let Nature give back. And in that moment of detachment and solitude, I hope you find Peace.
