Being outside in nature is one of my favorite things in life. One of the experiences that allows me to breathe deeply, feel whole and at peace. And yet, lately, with the cold weather, too much work, and the like, I haven’t been communing with nature.

Sunday, we had a warm up and I made it out to a nearby park. And again, I am reminded of its centering qualities.

While walking, I saw this bench. I love that people dedicate park benches. It’s likely I have seen this bench many, many times but either the plaque is new or I haven’t been paying attention. It could go either way.

In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks — John Muir

Nature is a giver. It reminds us of who we are and also of how big it is and how small we are. It provides perspective for ourselves and our problems.

Once I heard ultrarunner Jeff Browning say that everyone should experience nature and find a place they love. Only when we all have skin in the game will we care about the planet, nature, mother Earth.
I think he’s right.
We all need to find a place in nature that captivates us, whether it’s a waterfall, a freshly bloomed flower, or an undeveloped field across the street.
Nature speaks to us in ways that nothing else does because it doesn’t use words, it speaks to us through spirit. It speaks through all of our senses and we all interpret it differently and that’s part of the beauty.

We get more than we were expecting.
And it’s always just what we need.

Sunshine & Sarcasm,
Lowi & G