Is Nature Real?
Posted by Robin Easton
ANCIENT TEACHERS: Of the Most Fundamental Wisdom
Often the wild creatures we fear the most are our greatest teachers. To live in harmony with them we must awaken to full consciousness. As we come to understand our own need to survive we begin to respect the survival skills of other species.
“It is imperative to maintain portions of the wilderness untouched so that a tree will rot where it falls, a waterfall will pour its curve without generating electricity, a trumpeter swan may float on uncontaminated water – and moderns may at least see what their ancestors knew in their nerves and blood.” ~Bernand De Voto, Fortune, June 1947
“When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world.” ~John Muir
“Is Nature real to us? Does she flourish in our awareness, in our minds and hearts and breathing cells, everyday? Flourish to the extent that we are Nature and are in love with ourselves? Or have we, without realizing it, slipped into an anesthetized state of being and Nature is only a vague concept that’s ‘out there’ somewhere? Are we manifesting this detached reality?” ~ ©Robin Easton (Excerpt Naked in Eden)
How important is Nature in your life? How do you feel when you do connect with the natural world? How often do you spend time with Nature, and connect in such a way that it is just you and the land, no speed boats, mountain bikes, snowmobiles, and so forth? Do you feel you are in constant connection with the natural world around you? Do you experience planet Earth as a living being? I would love to hear your thoughts and insights; they may help us all. Thank you my friends.
With Love,
Robin
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Related Links:
The Choice
Forced into Awareness
Through Wild Eyes
Keeper of the Circle
I’d Rather
ME: When the World is Not Looking
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This Site: © Robin Easton
Website: http://www.nakedineden.com
Blog: http://nakedineden.com/nakedinedenblog/
Related Posts:
33 Comments so far...
guitarmusings Says:
7 July 2009 at 5:48 pm.
When you ask the question how do I feel when I don’t connect with the natural world, I didn’t have an answer. I know that when I connect with the natural world and take it in fully, I feel alive! Even if its walking through a parking lot in the city. The natural world doesn’t have to be at 11,000 feet in the mountains; although it helps. With that, I guess that when I lose touch with the natural world, it don’t feel anything. I’m feeling numb, not alive.
Thank you for helping me learn just a bit about myself today Robin! You’re awesome!
Robin Replies
Dear Larry, This is very touching what you wrote here, also very honest. I agree that nature can be almost everywhere and I also believe that all of Earth is sacred even the Earth buried under concrete and tar. My heart weeps for these parts of Earth. I always talk to the Earth in these place, maybe especially these place. I also agree that it certainly helps to get out away from the cars and noise. Something magical happens, automatically. We let down, breathe and experience peace…without even trying. I remember your writings about being up on the mountain in your tent and you were SO wonderfully alive and emotional. I was very moved by that and never forgot it. —I also hear a lot of people say they feel numb or not alive when they are in the city day after day. —And Larry, YOU are awesome. This sharing comes straight from your heart and is really appreciated.
[Reply]
Stephen - Rat Race Trap Says:
7 July 2009 at 6:59 pm.
Robin, I loved your video. I want to go naked in the forest too! Too many people around here though. I’d scare somebody to death! 
I didn’t know how important nature was too me until recently. I’ve always been awed by its beauty and concerned about its destruction, but I didn’t know how important it really was to me – how it made me truly feel. Even though I live about 70 miles from the beach I almost never go. I’ve went for a day and hung out enjoying the ocean twice in the last few weeks. I love it! I recently spent time in the mountains of Colorado and I can’t say enough good about that.
An ice cream truck came down the beach both times I was there. The people bother me, but hey, I’m there too. But the ice cream truck and its obnoxiously loud music really bugged me. I followed my own advice and let it go but it made me realize I need to find some isolated places in nature where there is no other human or human effects. I don’t think you can really connect with other people around.
Robin Replies
Dear Stephen, I’ve felt in you this awakening to nature, especially after your trip to the mountains. Like I said I think you have a latent or previously hidden love affair with nature in you, just waiting to burst into life. I think nature could be your greatest source of peace, nourishment and refueling. I also suspect that you are wide open to her. –I understand how living in the city can make it a bit more challenging. But I think you are on the right track going to the beach, even though it is not like your high mountain experience. It is still better than not going at all. Even a garden can afford a wonderful connection with nature. I say grab it wherever you can. I am eager to see how this unfolds in you as I really believe it to be part of your path. Thank you my friend. —PS Yes, we too have those ice cream trucks. The worst part is when they go around the neighborhood 10 times a day and the tinkling little tune sticks in my head for days. LOLOL!!
[Reply]
starflight/marcel lemieux Says:
7 July 2009 at 9:05 pm.
Nature has always played a double role for me…first it was the whole discovery of its mysterious diversity and all the different species, plants, animals, insects, etc. that composed it….endless discoveries..than its dangers..well you sort of got to know how things work right…I lived in the wild a fairly long time…as an example: lived on an island with 20 pounds of brown rice and just survived on sea food or whatever I would find..build a log cabin with drift wood and build nice fire at night…listen to the sound of the sea and watch the stars or moon forever…secondly I was also pulled in by civilization..so I went inland..discovered lots of nature there too…great park, and more…so I manage to always have some kind of contact with nature..its like taking air in..could not live without it..whenever I feel the need to connect…it will be with gardening, walks in nature..(love national preserved parks)..a canoe trip on some river, camping,..even watering flowers is cool to me…I get to see their growing and beauty..nature is vast ..nature is plentiful..wild or domesticated….gee even when I go to a fruits and vegetable market I touch them, smell them and sometimes just kiss an apple before buying it…I love life and all nature is important to me…I never really questioned the ancient wisdom (its there)…I know that when I lean my back to a tree; its blending its energy with me..or when I splatter water from the river on my face..I’m thankful..so nature is a ground, a pause in time, an eye opener to the marvels of this world…I’ve seen a video on youtube were the author has another vision of things…nature was not in danger…man was..nature will survive..we don’t know about civilization..a well done video with a large view of things……peace
Robin Replies
Oh Marcel, This is a whole poem in itself. So beautifully expressed. I sit with tears in my eyes and my heart full and bursting. I hear you my brother. It’s as if you wrote the feelings imprinted on my heart by Nature. I simply know and understand how feel and experience nature. You have lived a remarkable life, the life of a free-spirit and free-thinker. Your days on the island sound much like my early days in the rainforest where the forest ran right down to the sea. You are so imprinted with Nature that you ARE nature. We all ARE Nature but you are blessed to be someone who is very aware of it, which is truly inspiring for those around you. Yes!, even watering flowers can be an ecstatic experience, filled with color and expectation, watching them grow and bloom. I too go “ga ga” over fruit and vegetable stands, the colors, shapes and abundance of life just THRILL my senses. It really is about seeing and appreciating every scrap of nature everywhere we go. —I also really relate to what you mention about the youtube video. I write about that very concept in my book. Nature will always be here. We are sooooooo blessed to be part of her if even for a time. And the question is not whether she will survive — as I believe she will go on in some form or another for ages to come. The mystery is, as you say, whether we humans/civilization will survive. Knowing this only makes me want to soak up as much of nature as I can while I am here. As you know so well yourself; it is an ecstasy to be madly in love with Nature. Thank you Marcel.
[Reply]
Jonathan - Advanced Life Skills Says:
7 July 2009 at 9:46 pm.
I seek not the things of man, but rather the balance of nature. At 21 I moved from the fast lane to the middle of nowhere in the mountains of Southern Oregon. I love the woods, the rivers, and the ocean. Everything is in balance and it touches me on the deepest level. There are two distinctly different worlds on this planet of ours, the natural, and the unnatural. My choice is always the same.
Robin Replies
Dear Jonathan, The other day I was jotting down questions to send you for a possible interview and I was thinking about your time in the wild. There are many self-improvement writers, coaches, etc. out there, but there is something about your work that is continually touched by another elusive element, one I’ve not been able to put my finger on. It is a depth, a wisdom beyond book learning, beyond conditioning, something that ‘sees’ and feels beyond the standard self-improvement genre. I could be wrong here, but I believe that, at least in part, that it stems back to your time alone with nature at a young and crucial stage of your development. It manifests as someone who is more expansive and sees things in a far reaching way. Nature tends to do that to us because she shatters a lot of our preconceived notions or domestication or social conditioning that we humans take for granted and more often than not don’t even see….because we have no contrast (if we’ve not spent time in nature). Anyway all thoughts for an interview. —Also loved your beautiful line: “I seek not the things of man, but rather the balance of nature.” Yes. I know.
[Reply]
Dragos Roua Says:
7 July 2009 at 10:21 pm.
Great video, Robin, I loved the music. And the experience described was fantastic
Robin Replies
Hi Drago, thanks for stopping in and I’m glad you enjoyed the video and smiled even more that you like my spontaneous primal music. It was a first for me. Normally my stuff is more traditional. —As to the experience it WAS fantastic. Forged my whole character. Thank you, Dragos.
[Reply]
Bird Says:
8 July 2009 at 1:57 am.
I live among urban sophisticates in one of the world’s big cities, and my survival skills are often of necessity very different to the ones you honed when Naked in Eden. I live in a place where kids are scared to walk on grass because it’s “dirty” and have friends who spend their lives in dark, noisy bars. But nature has never been unreal to me; how could it? We are swimming in it every day, like it or not, immersed in it whether we see it or not – you don’t have to go into the wilderness for that to be fact.
But I worry that many have turned away from the actual world; perhaps the city just attracts those who would deny our vulnerability, who only want people and human things around them. They are safe and happy in an artificially constructed world where they shy away from their surroundings – the air around them, what they eat. The Earth allows us our illusion, but for how long? Those people would not thrive if the trappings of the human world were stripped away. I’ve often joked to R that if the sh*t hit the fan I could live out of the hedgerows, build a shelter, get clean water – I’d be ok, in fact I’d like it. I’m filled with horror when I try to imagine how an average city person would do, but maybe I’m not giving humanity enough credit in thinking that.
Anyway, not denying the truth or reality of nature is the only way that human beings are going to survive. We can’t beat it, we can’t control it, we can’t get outside of it, though “progress” deems we should try all three. We need to live steeped in it, completely aware, whether that’s in the forest or the city.
And *coughcough* apologies for not being around here half as much as I should be. You know, work, life, the grindstone and all of that stuff Thank you for dropping by on me – it’s always an honour
Robin Replies
Dear Little Birdie, I am sooooooo glad you stopped by because, well, 1) it’s always good to see YOU. 2) this comment seriously ROCKS on so many levels. I just love it.
I knew you LOVED nature but I had no idea what a staunch ecologist, survivalist, nature writer, voice of nature and more that you are. You should take this whole comment and use it as post on your blog. It is excellent. So many insights here. I think if things ‘fell apart’ that it would be very hard on so many city folks. Those with more resilience, resourcefullness and courage might survive, but so many might suffer intolerably. I am like you and could forage in many areas of the world and could get clean water, shelter, fire, etc. I think these skills should be taught in every high school as a prerequisite for graduation. As you say, “The Earth allows us our illusion, but for how long?” Yes, as Marcel and I were saying in his comment, Earth will heal what she needs to heal and will rid herself of parasites if she needs to, and one way or another go on. I believe humans are being asked right now to align themselves with Nature’s balance. Like in my video I say (something to the affect), “unconsciousness in a luxury we can no longer afford not if we want to survive.” This not only holds true for humans but all species, all life. At present we are unconscious of who we really are, what we are doing and where we are headed. I do believe there are many in the world like yourself and others here on these pages who see clearly and do what they can to bring change and awakening to those around them. That is why I think it would very powerful for you post your comment here on your site. You could expand on it. You are an eloquent and punchy writer who speaks bluntly and honestly. I am so honored Little Birdie to have you here whenever that is; I never keep score. We can come and go as we need. We are just connected no matter what. Thank you dear.
[Reply]
Mihaela Lica Says:
8 July 2009 at 3:35 am.
Nature is very important in my life too, Robin, especially since I got my baby (9 months ago). You know, when a new life enters in your life you have time to see the little things you otherwise tend to ignore. Of course, I was an environmentalist even before, but since I am a mother I see things in a different light, I find new meanings…
“The true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade you do not expect to sit.” (Nelson Henderson)
Robin Replies
Dear Mihaela, although few words this comment has many layers of meaning. Yes, as a new mother you will look at the world in whole news ways that you might not have previously. I could tell you were already an environmentalist and in love with nauture, but now you have a child. I think a healthy and aware parent worries about what the future will be like for their children. They want them to grow in a world with trees and clean air and water. I think it is a HUGE concern for aware parents the world over. I don’t have children and STILL worry for our children. What are we leaving them. I can become very emotional about this at times because I love children deeply and find such joy and spontaneous love in them. I relate easily to children and they do with me. So bless you dear friend for being this aware and finding/seeing these new meanings… —I also LOVE this quote, another I had yet to hear. It is simply elegantly beautiful, like nature. I send good wishes for both you and your tiny new life (9 months old — so little).
[Reply]
Evita Says:
8 July 2009 at 7:04 am.
Ehm, ehm… lol I am just clearing my throat to answer your questions No just kidding I know I cannot turn this comment into an article!
Robin the story is amazing!!! Accountability! Responsibility! Being aware of our actions! Those are the paradigms for the future world I believe.
Our society indeed has left us with eyes closed or half closed, when it comes to the animals, and the environment. We live our life from day to day, sometimes say we care about the enviro, but generally speaking as soon as something becomes “inconvenient” we nicely push it to the side, because after all we do not want to disrupt in any way our comfortable lives.
But I think the time has come that we do need to get disturbed and start facing what each one of us, through every single action is creating each day. From whether we recycle or eat meat to how much driving we do and what kind of clothes we buy. All of these choices are making a HUGE difference to the plants, animals, waters, soils trees and skies. We can no longer ignore this. I do believe mother Earth is calling out to us today louder than ever. We have forgotten her. But the good news is some of us are hearing and more are starting to hear her call. We cannot let her wither away any more than she already has, we must continue the healing process.
So how important is nature to me? well I know you know. But for the others out there, it is me. There is no me without nature. I love spending time in it as often as I possibly can (although if one were to examine my life, it is still not often enough) but I get better each day. If I spend at least some time in nature each day, that to me is a great day! I love all the animals that nature has provided, every single one of them I love (that is also why I cannot possibly eat any of them), there is no more discrimination for me when it comes to the animals, or even the plants in my yard. Our grass in the back yard grows wild with all sorts of diversity and I am proud of that. To others it may seem “unkept”, to me I only see the beauty of what is possible when we allow.
So thank you for this beautiful post again!
Robin Replies
Dear dear Evita, WOW! You are amazing. This loaded and I love it. You wrote:
“I think the time has come that we do need to get disturbed and start facing what each one of us, through every single action is creating each day. From whether we recycle or eat meat to how much driving we do and what kind of clothes we buy. All of these choices are making a HUGE difference to the plants, animals, waters, soils trees and skies.”
It’s like you read my mind. This post I did was originally much longer and said almost verbatim what you wrote here. When I read it I laughed out loud and thought: “Thank you dear Evita!!!” Actually, you wrote it more beautifully than I had. But I took it out as I’ve had a lot of long posts and wanted to give people a break, especially with the video. So I am very grateful to you for carrying the ball the rest of the way. You and “Bird” both raise such important issues in your comments. I too believe we are being asked to rise up and awaken, and I know that many are, but many more are not. So, as I told Bird in her comment, this comment of yours would make an EXCELLENT post on your blog. You writing is passionate and insightful. —My experience with Earth is that she loves me. I find my deepest love in communion with Earth. In light of this insight, I believe she loves us all and without judgment. She simply loves. She IS love. And she is calling to us, telling us to awaken and live in harmony and balance if we wish to survive. It is not a threat or ultimatum, simply the truth, the laws of nature. If we put enough poison in our air and water eventually it will kill us. I am not a doomsday person and never was, but I am a realist. I like to see what is going on around me so that I can make healthy and proactive choices in accordance with any situation. As you say, choose what I eat, buy, how much I drive, what clothes I wear, etc.
And yes, you ARE Nature, dear Evita. I too cannot live without Nature. I BECAME her a long long time ago and now see through wild eyes. Thank you for such a compelling piece. I’m serious about putting it on one of your blogs. You have the ability to help others see Nature through your eyes. It is a gift.
[Reply]
Lynda Lehmann Says:
8 July 2009 at 7:08 am.
Robin, I very much like your excerpt from Naked in Eden.
You are wise, empathic, and compassionate beyond your years, and that comes across in all your posts.
I feel as you do, that nature is so much an integral part of my being that I cannot conceive of being separated from it. I have had friends who actually questioned my proclivity for looking up! “You’re always looking up, Lynda!” they would say. I would answer that upwards is where the trees, the clouds, the sky, the reaches of the universe are–and in the lofty billows of clouds is where dreams are made. There, and in the deepest, slightest details of the landscape, as well.
I only know that I live to be in nature–it soothes and fills my soul with sweetness and wonder. That’s why I love Maine so much, because it offers me the opportunity to be far more immersed in nature than when I’m in metro-suburbia.
Robin, your posts are so poignant and expressive, and you are so generous in baring your thoughts and feelings so that we can all be enriched by them. I cherish having “met” you and having access to your wonderful posts.
Please forgive me for taking so long to get around. I am, along with my husband, just way over my head with this house-finishing project. I may even stop posting for a few weeks, we’ll see.
Thank you for being part of my journey by sharing yours, my friend. Your Being has touched my soul. I think of you even when not doing blogging-related “stuff.” May your spirit fly free, always~!
Robin Replies
Oh my dear Lynda, how do I even begin to reply to such a beautiful, heartfelt comment? I see how you live your life entrenched in nature and nature in you. Everything you touch, express and share has the wonder and glow of nature in it. So this is such a compliment to me. I truly can’t even begin to tell you how effected I am by it. It brings tears to my eyes.
I too live to be with Nature, every single day. I loved your use of the word ‘sweetness’. Yes, Nature fills us with sweetness and wonder. People who spend intimate time with Nature often exude an innocence or freshness of spirit about them that is very uplifting. They have the wonder of children. Nature does that to us. She captivates our hearts and fills us with wonder and awe. I’m so glad you are having a love affair with Maine. She is teeming with abundant life. One feels like they could lay right down and bury their roots into the very soil; it is so rich. —Lynda, as you tell me never worry about how often or when we connect. We are already far more connected than these pages. We both know that. I’ve a feeling one day we will meet. Thank you for being so generous of spirit with me and for ‘seeing’, for being part of my journey. It’s soothes and speaks to my core. I am soooo blessed by your presence.
[Reply]
Lynda Lehmann Says:
8 July 2009 at 7:12 am.
ROBIN, can you send me a banner linked to your site, to put on the sidebar of my blog?
Did I tell you that you inspire me as much as Barbara Kingsolver, one of my favorite (nature-loving) writers?
Robin Replies
Dear Lynda I am soooooo touched by this and grinning ear to ear. No, you had not told me this and I am blown away! Barbara Kingsolver also lives in Maine. We are all connected. She too is one of my favorites. Just so pithy and rich. I’ll also see what I can do about a banner. Wow! I am truly honored Lynda, just stunned. Hugging you, Robin
[Reply]
Randall Says:
8 July 2009 at 8:31 am.
Your question, “How important is Nature in your life?”, is perhaps the most profound question confronting humanity. Not that we have a choice in the fundamental importance of Nature, for we are inseparable from it. The importance relates to our conscious realization (or lack thereof) of this relationship. The abuses humans inflict on Nature (and therefore, ourselves) stems from a lack of awareness of this relationship. If we would awaken, then the abuse would necessarily end.
Robin, I know you are well aware of this relationship. As you point out in your video, when you become a conscious part of the food chain, you are quickly educated to this fact.
Robin Replies
Dear Randy, Wow! You make a brilliant distinction here. This is a powerful statement you have made and would be great on your website. In fact it is one of the BEST nature quotes and insights I’ve ever read. Yes, we ARE Nature and therefore inseparable. It really is a matter of whether we realize this or not. Our lack of realization does not change, as you say, the fundamental importance of nature. I also agree that we cannot abuse nature without abusing ourselves. We ARE nature. And yes, when we awaken we can no longer abuse. I highly value your sharing here Randy and all the work you do that rekindles humanities inseparable connection to the natural world. Your connection to the wild and her creatures is a gift in my life and I’m sure in many others.
[Reply]
Lance Says:
8 July 2009 at 10:34 am.
Hi Robin,
Love the video – so real…and honest.
Nature is a big part of my life. Not always so much in that I’m out in it – so much as it’s important that I do connect with nature. I believe it’s not the quantity of time that matters, it’s the quality of that time. For me, this is often just time in our yard. I find such peace just wandering around, maybe back into the forest a ways, and really just letting all of nature permeate my soul. It connects me back to Source. It brings me back into alignment with “me”. If just feels “right”. Maybe that’s not a really good answer, for me, though, it works. Because that “right” is coming from someplace deep within me, and that’s a place I very much trust.
Robin, thank you for this, and for having me really think about what nature means…
Robin Replies
Dear Lance, I love the fact that you recognize that ‘quality’ of time in Nature VS quantity of time is very important. There are people who can spend their whole lives in Nature and still not really connect to its healing, soothing, grounding abilities…its life force. That you are conscious while in nature is very important, that you feel connected to ‘Source’, yourself and Nature, the fact that you sense a rightness….all these things are so wonderful. I strongly relate to your use of the word “right”. I put this quote (that t I wrote some time ago) on my email signature. “I believe pure truth can be found in Nature. If we really listen to the trees, rocks and infinite stars, all things are made clear…..and right.†(© REaston) This really covers both your points here of being in Nature in a quality way where we let in Nature, as you say, let Nature ‘permeate’ us. The second part of that is that when we can do this our souls align with Nature’s harmony and our world is made ‘right’. …And Lance, I think it is a perfect answer. Thank YOU dear soul.
[Reply]
Shirley Says:
8 July 2009 at 10:43 am.
Is nature real? If you can touch it, feel it breath it it is real.
Does she flourish in our awareness, in our minds and hearts and breathing cells, everyday? Even in a city like Cleveland nature exists. Even in Cleveland I sat on the swing and listened to birds. Can’t say I had a wiff of fresh air though. None of that in Cleveland.
Flourish to the extent that we are Nature and are in love with ourselves? Now this I have experienced.
Or have we, without realizing it, slipped into an anesthetized state of being and Nature is only a vague concept that’s ‘out there’ somewhere? Nope it’s out the back door if you choose to see.
Are we manifesting this detached reality? This I can’t answer. I’m pretty connected to nature. I’m not at all detached. I have a thing against snakes but as long as they aren’t poisonous they won’t bug me too much.
How important is Nature in your life? It’s so important that where I live currently I experience bouts of depression. I don’t like people enough to want to live on top of 100 of them in one street corner.
How do you feel if you don’t connect with the natural world? Depressed.
How do you feel when you do connect with the natural world? At home, at peace with myself and the world, calm.
How often do you spend time with Nature, and connect in such a way that it is just you and the land, no speed boats, mt. bikes, snowmobiles, and so forth? As much as I can.
Do you feel you are in constant connection with the natural world around you? When I am surrounded by nature.
Robin Replies
Dear Shirley, I really enjoyed how you took each question and answered it. Of the many things I enjoy about you, your deep love of Nature touches me the most. You THRIVE in Nature. I see it every time you write about Nature. I remember the first time I read something you’d written about Nature, I was stunned and KNEW that you were someone who had FAR MORE than a passing relationship with the natural world. It really is at the core of your soul. You not only love Nature, but have a beautiful understand about listening to Nature. I love that and of course I relate. —I’ve often seen people I know who have told me they were very depressed and then when we got out on the hiking trail and sat in the woods, waded through the creeks they just came to LIFE!!. They told me that there depression started to melt away and didn’t matter as much. And that just from one hike. I think all schools should get children out into Nature waaaaaay more than they currently do. So many classes could be taught outdoors (if not in the wild then just in a park or an area beside the school with flowers and trees. I think it would make a huge difference. —I was SO excited and deeply touched when I wrote: “Flourish to the extent that we are Nature and are in love with ourselves?” And you said: “Now this I have experienced.” It is very difficult to fall deeply in love with Nature and still hate or dislike ourselves. Again, another way Nature can heal us. Thank you for being YOU.
[Reply]
ZuzannaM Says:
8 July 2009 at 12:13 pm.
Dear Robin
Thank you so much for the profound video presentation
in relation to Nature. I like to share some of my musing
in response to your Blog… “Is Nature Real?”
NATURE IS REAL
Our existence depends on Nature
Imagine no sun, no trees, and no blue sky
Imagine no rain, no birds, no bees or butterflies
Imagine no rainbow on the sky but constant dark days.
Can you imagine how this will affect humanity?
Our existence would come to end too soon
If no longer these, we were not able to see Nature
We fully depend on Mother Earth and her grace.
We shall protect and think harder to bring balance
To Tropical Forests, to keep them in an enchanting form
To protect the Wild Life that is yet to be born
Yes, the Nature is real and we depend on her in many ways.
From wood to herbs, to clean air because the trees filtrate
They do help us to breathe the fresh air and sustain our health.
We depend also with the water supplies as well, so please
Keep protecting the Mother Earth she will thank you for that!
July-08–2009
By Zuzanna Musial
© 2009 Zuzanna Musial:rose
Robin Replies
Dear Beautiful Zuzanna, I am so touched by the message in your poem here. I was just telling a friend that we humans take so much for granted. Yes, imagine if we all woke on day and all the trees on Earth we gone, vanished. We need to protect and nurture that which we love and cannot live without. We are completely dependent upon Nature. Like Randy says when we abuse Nature we abuse ourselves. There is no separation. None. —I love so many lines here, but this line I find magical: “We shall protect and think harder to bring balance… To Tropical Forests, to keep them in an enchanting form…” The words “..an enchanting form” are exquisite and so describe virgin rainforest. Zuzanna, thank you for your true and sensitive heart. You have a deep love of Nature; I have always know this.
[Reply]
JOURNEYTIME Says:
8 July 2009 at 1:22 pm.
Hi Robin,
Nature is the essence of who we are and the benchmark of how far we are prepared to annihilate the very essence of our own beings.
When the realisation starts to filter down to the masses of people who are caught into the cycle of wasteful consumerism then it would be realised that each time we contemplate and decide to destroy a bit of nature, for profit and greed, we are in effect destroying our own humanity.
The more nature bleeds, the more our path diverges and brings with it it’s own unique challengers as a wake up call each step of the way.
Are we listening?
Do we hear?
Are we able to respond adequately?
Those are all questions each one has to ask and empower themselves in the process to find the equilibrium on the road to wholeness.
Thank you
namaste friend
derick
Robin Replies
Dear Derick, this sharing is so beautiful and complete there is nothing I can add. I can only say how deeply I resonate with your insight. Yes, I pray that humanity as a collective can realize that they ARE Nature and it truly is ourselves we destroy. Likewise when we revere, nurture and love Nature it is ourselves that we revere, nurture and love. Although I believe that within the Universe all things are in perfection, we humans have fallen from Grace and as with all things in Nature whether human or mosquito, to not live in balance and in harmony with Nature often means the end of that species…but I do not believe the end of Nature. —I also think we all need to search our souls and honestly ask the questions you have raised. They are an excellent place to start. Thank you my dear Derick. I so enjoy your depth of wisdom.
[Reply]
Sandra Says:
8 July 2009 at 3:38 pm.
Robin,
You remind me that I don’t connect with nature as often as I should. The lessons that we learn from nature are priceless. I love the animal kingdom and the valuable lessons that we especially learn from lions, wolves, swans, dolphins and geese. It has been interesting here in the northeast about people feeling that Canadian Geese are messy and destructive to property. Yet, we as humans do not say, we are messy and destroy their natural habitat. There is a great poem about geese and if human followed their leadership style, we would be a lot better off. Also, there is nothing like listening to the birds early morning hearing them sign the song of a new day. Thanks for reminding me of how awesome our planet is. Peace
Robin Replies
Hi dear Sandra, You wrote: “The lessons that we learn from nature are priceless.” Yes, we learn about ourselves deeply and holistically, in a way that is not easily forgotten, in a way that becomes ‘body-knowing’. I love what you wrote here about people feeling the geese are messy and destructive to property….and then you say. “Yet, we as humans do not say, we are messy and destroy their natural habitat.” Excellent insight and truth. Humans are the messiest animal on Earth, not only to ourselves but to all other species. —I love the sounds of geese. We often hear them as they fly overhead in the fall migration. There is something about it that tugs on my own primal yearnings. I want to follow them in cool autumn air, follow those same urges in me to pick up and walk the path imprinted on my heart. Thank you for sharing Sandra. Lovely.
[Reply]
Kit Says:
8 July 2009 at 10:35 pm.
First of all, I LOVE that quote from John Muir! I’ve never seen it before- thank you for posting it.
Is Nature Real? Oh, yes, a thousand times YES, and a thousand times more. What is the definition of “real”? (from dictionary.com:) 1. true; not merely ostensible, nominal, or apparent 2. existing or occurring as fact; actual rather than imaginary, ideal, or fictitious 3. being an actual thing; having objective existence; not imaginary 4. being actually such; not merely so-called 5. genuine; not counterfeit, artificial, or imitation; authentic 6. unfeigned or sincere
- Looking at this, I’d have to say that Nature DEFINES what is real. Nature is not about our oddly human world of ideas. Nature is REALITY. It is as true, factual, objective, actual, authentic and sincere as it gets.
However, “Is Nature real to us?”- that is a different question. Not an objective factual question, but rather a question pertaining to perception and ideas. The answer I think, is too often “no”. Even for myself, someone who deeply values Nature and tries to make it part of her life, even then Nature is not always paramount in my awareness. But I know a great many people for whom Nature is even more abstract and removed from their thoughts. “Are we manifesting this detached reality?” YES. Sadly. And that will haunt us, even more than it already does.
It’s easy to get swept up in the minutiae of our existence, the many details of “life”, and forget that all of our hullabaloo pales next to the immense, interdependent, infinite web of true LIFE that is nature. For all our conceits and demands, we are but a humble participant in it. Nature defines true reality.
As for me? I crave contact with Nature. It grounds me, delights me, and fills my reserves for dealing with my responsibilities elsewhere. It is truth and beauty. You’ve read many of my blog posts; I know you are aware of Nature’s importance to me. You know how I strive to pass this love and awareness on to my children. In a way I am in constant connection with Nature – it is always an undercurrent, a low hum that runs beneath my human endeavors, swelling beautifully from time to time, only to subside again for awhile. The more I practice awareness, the more connected I feel even through daily tasks. This is a worthy reminder to be more aware, more of the time.
Robin Replies
Dear Kit, this comment is remarkable, stunning, profoundly clear and insightful. I love how you distinguished between Nature’s “having objective existence” and whether or not Nature is real to us. This whole comment is absolutely brilliant. You need to save it and either use it as post on your site or submit it as an online magazine article. I too believe Nature is real in her own right. I just so understand where you are coming from. You have expressed this clearer than I’ve had EVER seen it expressed. I am just blown away. You are a true, staunch and powerful voice for the wild. I LOVE this these lines: “I’d have to say that Nature DEFINES what is real. Nature is not about our oddly human world of ideas. Nature is REALITY. It is as true, factual, objective, actual, authentic and sincere as it gets.” WOW!! That part about “Nature DEFINES what is real.” Oh dear Kit you speak a language I know so well. I hear you dear one and all my senses bask in your truth. I am blessed and honored to be part of such wisdom. It comes from one who deeply knows and relates ‘with’ Nature on a regular basis. And as you say there is always the low hum that runs beneath your human endeavors. Yes, I know this too. I think that you, like me, have become Nature. Thank for this remarkable sharing. I take my hat off to you!
[Reply]
BunnygotBlog Says:
9 July 2009 at 1:14 am.
Hello Robin,
This is my first time on your site. I loved the video and what you have written. I wake up with the birds, seriously. The sound of birds chirping in the morning and you know there is a crow that visits me then also. I find nature gives me a feeling of peace and tranquility like almost nothing else.
Robin Replies
Dear BunnyGotBlog, I have seen you around so many places and am honored to have to visit me. What a treat! Thank you for your kind words. I too LOVE waking to the morning birds. There is such sweetness in this experience, as if my whole body is infused with joy and all the world is made right. Yes, Nature offers enormous tranquility. I’d too would have to say that it is my greatest peace. I can’t live without it. It would merely be existing. Thank you for sharing here. I am touched.
[Reply]
Dorothy Stahlnecker Says:
9 July 2009 at 5:01 pm.
Hi Robin, this is a great video and yes I’m in touch more now then I’ve been in the past and it seems to mesmerize my mind allowing me to hear and feel more of nature around me. Somehow when I’m walking and listening without realizing it I’ve begun to feel more passion in me. Too bad so few get to understand this concept of man and nature as one blended and defining.
Hugs Dorothy from grammology
grammology.com
Robin Replies
Dear Dorothy, I am so touched that you are now enjoying nature more. I agree with you in that if we can get out into nature (without all our machinery) and just sit or walk, something magical starts to happen. Our minds start to forget everyday worries and we DO become, as you say, mesmerized by the natural world around us. It just seems to seep in and sooth and heal. And yes! Nature is passion manifested in infinite form, we start to feel that passion inside us and realize that we are part of it. Thank you Dorothy. I am hugging you right back.
[Reply]
Julie Says:
10 July 2009 at 11:12 am.
Nature is as real as everything else. 
What’s special, for me, about nature, though, is that Nature is the BEST PLACE EVER for helping me feel what’s REALLY real. There are no words to explain or describe my love affair with Nature. Everything about her is another avenue for my instantaneous connection to my own real self, my spirit, OUR spirit.
Just as each of us is one aspect of God/Spirit/All That Is, so too is everything in nature—all the terrain, animals and insects and winged and finned creatures, the plants and air and fire and water…every teeny tiny aspect. So, when I squat to watch ants going about their business, or when I sit with eyes closed and listen to the night bugs, or when I feel every sensation that a breeze brings as it brushes my face, or when I hear my horse nicker or the elk bugle or the cat purr, or when I smell the freshness of grass or the air after a desert rain or the mingled scents of pine and decomposing wood in the forest….ALL of it instantly brings me the peace of connection, of belonging, of being an infinitesimal speck, an enormously powerful and creative speck, that exists in same importance as everything and everyone else. I am no more important or less important or more real or less real than anything or anyone anywhere.
Robin Replies
Dear Julie, I think you need to spend more time with Nature. I think you are just a bit out of touch! HAHAHAHAHA!! Okay, okay, I’ll be serious. Julie all I can say is that you have BECOME Nature. And this is something I know so well myself. It’s as if Nature spoke to me here. Here again is the detail I keep telling you about. Yes, Nature is all these things and more. And EVERY single bit is of equal importance. This comment made me think of these lines in my book:
Crocodiles and Perfection
“Every cell of organism Earth has its function. Every being plays its part in the unfolding of life. Each one of us, human or mosquito, pine needle or rock, is unique and contributes to the other. Even the estuarine crocodile that on extremely rare occasion eats a human being is millions of years of perfection in the making.” ~ Copyright: Robin E Easton
Thank you dear Julie for expressing your own Nature so beautifully, in a way that I find great sweetness in. We are so blessed to live in a world full of beauty, a world that continually speaks with us. We need only listen. And you ARE listening so well that have become Nature. We all are. But you are so very aware of it.
[Reply]
Chris Edgar | Purpose Power Coaching Says:
10 July 2009 at 12:17 pm.
Thanks for this — it reminds me of the intention I’ve had for a long time to just go and sleep in the woods as a sort of mini-vision quest. Or perhaps a full-size vision quest is necessary for me. I always say “well, when everything’s totally lined up, I will,” but of course that won’t ever happen.
Robin Replies
Dear Chris, Well, what a surprise to see you here. I am honored. This comment is interesting timing for me as I am about to do a vision quest in a couple of weeks as long as I can get away from work. I am already stockpiling my gear in the living room, making a list and checkin’ it twice. I too have been waiting until everything is all lined up and THEN I will go, but as you say that doesn’t always happen. So I decided to just go. I encourage to listen to your heart and follow where it wants to take you, wherever and whenever that is. Sometimes we know and sometimes we just have to jump in and ‘do’. When and if you do a vision quest, please let me know, I’d love to hear how you go. I wish you well. Above all listen to your heart in all things. You will never go wrong. Thank you for your visit and sharing. I appreciate it and relate.
[Reply]
Liara Covert Says:
10 July 2009 at 2:19 pm.
Anything and everything is real that you choose to dream into being. To quote Viktor Frankl,
“A human being is not one thing among others; things determine each other, but man is ultimately self-determining.”
Robin Replies
Dear Liara, what a lovely quote. I’d not heard this one. Also, I really resonate to what you are saying here and feel the power of it in my bones. It is vast. There is such magic and freedom in it. Thank you for sharing this.
[Reply]
Robb Says:
10 July 2009 at 3:50 pm.
Kia ora Robin,
What beautiful comments and so awesome to read the common threads which connect us all. For me one day by the mountain river in the Ruahines changed my life forever. It was as if I had come out of a drugged sleep and Awoke for the first time. I could see the earth pulsating, hear every ripple of water, the wind whistling gently through the beech trees. I have come to realize that I probably had been dealing with depression in my life, and found this place which literally saved me. I can still become very melancholic, and am going through such a patch now. Yet there is not a day the Ruahines do not accompany me, make me smile, stop and realize the falseness of so much of what we are to hold dear and pursue out here. Wilderness now seems to always be within me, the Ruahines are always whispering in my ear, and they are calling strongly to me right now to return.
I have been working up in Taranaki and under somewhat stressful circumstances. Taranaki is underneath the shadow of Mt. Taranaki, an active volcano and one of the most beautiful sights one can see and in winter covered in snow just takes my breath away. I found this mountain speaking to me amongst this busy stress, literally soothing my soul and reminding me of the Timelessness of Nature, and the folly of our often trite worries and concerns. Kia kaha Wild sister. Rave on.
Aroha,
Robb
Robin Replies
Dear dear Robb, I am so moved by this comment. Oh yes, I see that you and Nature have fallen in love with each other. You have become Nature and Nature has become you. People often only see that they have fallen in love with Nature, but when we truly fall in love with Nature we learn/experience something deeper (which you know so well), and that is that Nature falls in love with us. I think you and I are so much alike in that we have a deep passion for the wild places and wild things. We both recognize that Nature does not judge. We can be who we really are and she simply and effortlessly embraces ALL that we are, everything without question or shame. We feel the love and the vitality she instills…and we lose ourselves in her. We become so absorbed in Nature that we forget ourselves and remember who we really are, all at the same time. This made me think of a couple of lines from the book I just finished.
“I wasn’t alone anymore. Mother Earth loved me as her own child. She is a life force able to love so many and yet love each one intimately.” ~ ©Robin Easton (Excerpt – Naked in Eden)
I also had this thought about you, Rob. Sometimes souls are born so sensitive and deeply aware of all that is around them. They are born wide open, wide awake and with no barriers or buffers. If they are in a world filled with Nature, peace, beauty and love, a world that is in harmony with their souls inner core, the soul does fine. But if that same soul is born into a world that is not in touch with itself or nature, and if it were YEARS before that soul found a reflection of themselves in their world…then that could be great cause for depression. This could happen to a child. They could have the best parents and even parents that take them into Nature on the weekends and spare moments (like mine did), but if most of that child’s life is spent in the “system” of school, church, college, work, etc. They might eventually forget what it was they even hungered for, what caused them to feel depressed or melancholic. I’ve often thought how you are so bonded with Nature that living anything less than that way of life is hard on your senses. It does not mean that you do not love your family; your profound love for them is SO obviously deep. It could just mean that you need to be in constant communion or entrenched with what Nature offers you personally. I relate to this. That is why you focus on Mt. Taranaki; even in a challenging time you are drawing on Nature to sustain you, which is so beautiful and very smart. It touches me dear friend. It is why I call you my dear Wild Brother. You are. —You know Rob, you probably already do this, but you can even talk to Nature when you are in the city or town and ask her to help to get you through. To be with you, to give you her strength and love. She will. Even when you stand in a store or city pavement, an office, etc, you can tell the Earth to come up through the layers of concrete and into your body. She will. —I hold you in the highest regard and am profoundly moved by your honesty in this comment. You are so genuine that you inspire me (and I’m sure others) with your beautiful authenticity. —I hold you and beautiful Tara and the boys in my heart. You are not alone. Aroha dear brother, Robin.
[Reply]
Michelle (Artscapes) Says:
10 July 2009 at 9:40 pm.
I had a walk a few years ago. I came across and ran into so many creatures by the time I got home, I felt ‘tangled’ in this web (literally at one point). It is so true that if we let ourselves, we can learn so much from the creatures we encounter. I am not good with spiders – but I have learned so much from them. Robin – you remember my story….
“…and moderns may at least see what their ancestors knew in their nerves and blood.” This part of the quote you posted above really struck me. I love to wander through places where man’s creations are slowly returning to Nature. There is both loss and immortality in these places familiar to the modern eye and yet saturated in the thing our ancestral mind knows so well, if we just sit still enough to listen – and to feel. There is perfection in entropy and the cycle of which it – and WE – are only one part.
Robin Replies
Dear Michelle, Yes, I remember well your spider story. So powerful. I agree that we have so much to learn from our fellow (non-human) beings. I can honestly say that I learned more about what it means to be human from my non-human friends that I did my fellow humans. I write about this more in my book. —Also I love what you wrote: ” love to wander through places where man’s creations are slowly returning to Nature. There is both loss and immortality in these places familiar to the modern eye and yet saturated in the thing our ancestral mind knows so well,…” This is SO lovely. You writing here is beautiful. We humans often see ourselves as invincible and omnipotent, but to go to place that nature had reclaimed can be both a humbling and powerful experience. Humbling because if we are open we realize our own immortality and powerful because we get to experience the true omnipotence of Nature. It remains to be seen whether humans will continue as a species and I do believe regardless that Nature will continue in one form or another. And there is a timeless peace in that for me. Thank you my dear friend. I really enjoyed this insightful comment.
[Reply]
Plastic Mancunian Says:
11 July 2009 at 6:02 am.
Hi Robin,
Interesting post as always. I too love nature, but I prefer the serene countryside of England. I know that I can walk across rolling green fields and enjoy the sound of birds, watch rabbits jumping about and bump into the odd cow, sheep, donkey, pig, dog, cat etc. I can watch bees buzzing around flowers and I feel at peace.
However, I am not too fond of places where I am likely to become part of the food chain. As magnificent as some of the creatures of the world are, I feel scared in their presence – I guess its a primeval alarm being set off inside. That said, I would love to go on Safari in Africa and view the wildness of that magnificent continent from behind the protective doors of a land rover (as long as it could withstand being attacked by a rhino of course).
I’ve already spoken about my love and fear of Australia, where humanity is definitely somewhere in the middle of the food chain. Imagine swimming in the Pacific Ocean and seeing a blue ringed octopus? You would say “What a wonderful beautiful creature” shortly before it stung and killed you. There is no antivenom for this creature.
For me, that puts the whole question of nature into perspective; it is beautiful yet it is deadly therefore we MUST respect it as well as embracing it.
Thanks for another interesting insight.
Cheers
“Plastic Man”
Robin Replies
Dear PM, I just love your comments. You make me chuckle even when you aren’t trying to be funny. I so relate to your preference of the serene countryside of England. I grew up in Maine, USA, which is very much like your serene English countryside. We had nothing poisonous or deadly, unless someone died of cold in the winter. So when I went to Australia…well…needless to say you know what it’s like. LOL!!! I initially wanted to run back to safe little serene Maine. And yes, in Oz one is MUCH more aware of the “food chain”, or at least you and I both seemed to have that reaction and I think many people who venture off the beaten path (and are aware of what’s there) have the same sense. —I REALLY like what you wrote here about Nature being both beautiful and deadly and therefore we must respect it. That is the same conclusion I came to…and I think it is not only a very real conclusion but a healthy one. If we go into Nature thinking it’s all fluffy little bunnies and fluttering butterflies we may be setting ourselves up for disaster that could otherwise be prevented. Because the reality is that there are creatures who can eat or kill us. So I really LOVE your thoughts on balance. You, my friend, are both wise and funny and always a joy to connect with.
[Reply]
Michael C. Dewey Says:
11 July 2009 at 6:40 am.
We have a deck in the back of our big White House. There is about a quarter acre backyard where almost a half a tree snapped off the top last winter when things froze up. The grass has not been cut for workers are coming to dig the yard up for a septic. With Green Trees lining both sides of the yard this time of year, its fun to watch my cat Dusty explore it all, and even climbing up the fallen tree. That’s about as close to nature as I come in this age.
Robin Replies
Dear Michael, Your yard sounds like a wonderful place to feel Nature. I love this comment because it reminds us that Nature can be found everywhere. Even in our backyards or an inner city. People cling to nature not only in the city parks but in small patches of gardens in abandoned lots, or on window sills, or feeding the pigeons or ducks. It made me think of the “Bird Man of Alcatraz” who was someone in circumstances completely cut off from Nature and yet he found connection with nature through the birds that came to his cell window. Although I have lived in some very remote places I truly believe that our backyards are one of the best place to start building a connection with Nature. With over 6.5 billion people on the planet we can no longer afford to all go back into the wild. We would completely destroy our few remaining wild places. So I thank you for this important reminder that we can find Nature all around us…even in our backyards.
[Reply]
eddie Says:
12 July 2009 at 6:37 pm.
Nature is the purist form of spirit. There is no fairness or morality, just the beauty and brutality of all that is. It works in a breathtaking symphony of sound color and vibration..and so as the shrew gives up its soul to the predator cat to fulfill its part in nature’s chorus, so be it. For therein lies the perfection, the art and deadliness of spirit’s expression. Won’t we all hear bells peal as we turn to dust? A lot of wonderful posts here from a lot of ‘nature spirits! Nice work Robin.
Robin Replies
Dear eddie, I LOVE these words: “Nature is the purist form of spirit. There is no fairness or morality, just the beauty and brutality of all that is.” That is something that I came to peace with in the rainforest. This whole comment is just loaded with insight of one who knows the land and has embraced the laws of Nature. And all aspects of Nature: the perfection, the art, AND YES, even the deadliness serve to awaken us (if we keep minds and hearts open) to be more aware of the great picture of Nature and our place in it. There is such an intrinsic quality to Nature. Nothing is wasted and everything is part of all the rest. There is no separation. —-Also, I agree; there are some extremely brilliant and insightful comments here by many ‘nature spirits’….including this comment of yours eddie. It’s deep and pure poetry, and yet brutally honest like Nature. I love that. Thank you my dear friend.
[Reply]
Tammy/Cricket Says:
12 July 2009 at 8:44 pm.
Well, being from an area that runs along the Tennessee River and in a place that is basically untouched behind my home…I am at constant peace with nature. My life would not be complete without my daily contact with the smell, sights, sounds, movements, and just the silence that nature gives me…even poison ivy. I also know that things around us are changing so rapidly. I see the decline in the fish and wildlife. It is very frightening to me to witness this. Having two children that will one day not have all the beauty that I see really saddens me.
We are each only open to that in which we open “our” own eyes to. My life begins each day with wide open eyes. I want to one day sit in my old rocking chair, gazing off at the distance and never say the words, “I wish I had stopped to notice nature…and all of the gifts it provided me.” I want to have pictures in which to gaze and know my legs walked me there to see a beautiful moment. I want my children to see what I got to see so that one day they can continue this fight to help keep things green.
It was great to read all the comments above. As with most all of your post, I hold back my thoughts until I can come over to read all that your friends have to say. A nice place to come read before turning the lights out for the day.
Hugs,
Tammy
Robin Replies
Dear Tammy, this is lovely! I can feel your deep and serene connection to Nature and your desire to protect and ensure that your boys have the same experience. I REALLY hear you about wanting to look back and KNOW that you connected with Nature on the deepest level. I think to connect with Nature in this way is to connect to all of Life, ourselves and the Universe. I am grateful that you take this time in Nature because I feel it in you and think of you when I am out hiking. I can feel you so strongly through our mutual love of Nature. —I too am blown away by the comments here. In fact I am stunned by the profundity of connection that these beautiful souls have to Nature, each in their own way, but all VERY much alive and aware. Your presence here is always a gift to me, Know that dear Tammy, You are beautiful and intensely openhearted. Thank you for that and more.
[Reply]
Liara Covert Says:
14 July 2009 at 7:00 pm.
During recent travels in Estonia, I marvel at the untouched forests. To connect with nature wherever you are now is a meaningful endeavor for it enables you to reconnect with soul.
Robin Replies
Dear Liara, You must have been deeply touched by the forests of Estonia. I’ve seen the Schwarzwald of Germany, but not the forests of Estonia, only photos online and they look truly magnificent, so inviting. I would be humble, awed and inspired by them; I know. Yes, my friend, I too connect to my soul in Nature so quickly and to the deepest most authentic part of myself. There is something so clean about Nature. It washes away all that is not really me. A bit like a clean summer rain. It makes me think of a line from the book I just wrote (I am speaking with the rainforest): “Your love decomposes all that is not me. You leave me with wild prehistoric eyes. In our mating I forget myself and separation vanishes as if it had never been.” ©Robin Easton (Excerpt – Naked in Eden) Thank you, Liara, for being a kindred inspiration in my life.
[Reply]
soulMerlin Says:
16 July 2009 at 9:22 am.
Hi Robin ~ A love of nature has always been with me, but the feeling of the whole spiritual power has grown as I have got older. I’m typing this from Lindisfarne on my first day there…I’m on holiday with Liz for three days. I admit to preferring the forest to the ocean….but the ocean surrounds the island and I am learning from the infinity of it all.
Just before I switched on my laptop and discovered I have a signal….it takes around half an hour to load a page….Liz was telling me that there is a small oak tree now growing in her garden…I haven’t noticed it yet, as she tells me it’s very small and only has around 5 or 6 leaves. My favourite oak tree is around 400 years old…and this little baby oak will be around long after we have gone….it made real sense to me when I read Mihalea’s quote above
“The true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade you do not expect to sit.†(Nelson Henderson)
I think that’s a beautiful statement.
love
henry
[Reply]
sidd Says:
16 July 2009 at 9:40 pm.
nature always speaks to me in common hours and I know that there is some kind of energy that really heals when your in and around the environment.
I love your poem at the bottom it’s so authentic and honest.
sidd.
[Reply]
Michael C. Dewey Says:
17 July 2009 at 3:22 pm.
You Dear Robin are a great break to me from the Politics I read online. I can’t wait until our leaders start listening to nature so we can form a world of peace with all. Until nature is at peace… the lion will not lay down with the lamb. I dream of that day; for its written it will happen/but sadly not as long as the BOMB/s exist.
[Reply]
Tami Says:
17 July 2009 at 8:24 pm.
Yes, I connect with nature. However, I feel that my respect for it and the survival instincts of all its creatures grows and develops each year in passing. The small little secrets slowly unfold (as you mention) as I develop and gain more respect for my own life (and, existence). I can still become a little uneasy in the company of Texan night creatures and insects, but I do try to remind myself that they are all important….whether cute like daytime ladybugs and butterflies, or nocturnal scary ones with many eyes and hairy legs that “go bump in the night”…hehe.
[Reply]
