Time

For a long while I watched this lovely female mallard resting on a log, an empty nester enjoying her new-found freedom after a summer of raising her offspring.

And I had a thought. It took her ducklings mere months to transform from eggs to adulthood. A blink of an eye…

And I was struck by how quickly my life is moving as well. I wondered if the duck was a reminder…a reminder to relish each precious moment. And to be open to all that life offers.

What a gift this life is. I don’t want to waste a moment…

(Click link to see more photos: wandernature.com/new-photos)

Wild

It was his distinctive sound that alerted me to his presence…a well-hidden bittern searching for breakfast. He was naturally camouflaged, and his disguise served him well.

For a brief moment, I felt a connection to him as one of Earth’s beautiful creations. I recognize that I’ll never know him or his family or join him in his day. After all, he’s destined to be wild, never tamed.

And as he disappeared into the tall grass, I honored him for his unique contribution to the web of life, certain that his existence is no less important than mine.

It was Charles Darwin who said, ‘The love for all living creatures is the most noble human attribute.’

I concur…

(Click link to see more photos: wandernature.com/new-photos)

Reconnection

Nature beings live in harmony with their surroundings, respectful and honoring of their natural home. I aspire to be more like them in their effortless connection to the Earth.

I thought about that as I watched this beautiful heron standing at the edge of a pond. As he tilted his face towards the sun, I wondered what he was listening to. Perhaps the Earth’s whispers…telling him where to find food and shelter, or when to mate, or what to teach his offspring.

Over time, we humans have lost our connection to the Earth’s natural guidance. And we’re just beginning to understand the cost to ourselves and our magnificent planet.

My hope, my dream is the reawakening of the ancient alliance between humans and our beloved Earth.

C.S. Lewis once wrote, ‘You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the end.’

In my heart of hearts, I know it’s possible…

(Click link to see more photos: wandernature.com/new-photos)