Trees

There he stood, proudly wearing his fall colors…a glorious oak tree. As a child, I loved to climb trees, quietly secreting myself among the leafy branches. Sometimes reading, sometimes just sitting.

To me, trees are fascinating beings. They selflessly offer so much, providing shelter and food and beauty and inspiration. And they exhale so we can inhale.

Trees show us how to gracefully embrace change…releasing the old and welcoming the new. And in the face of adversity, they stand tall, reaching for the light while remaining deeply rooted in the Earth.

Such amazing creations they are…I love them all.

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

Patient

It seemingly happened overnight…dozens of trilliums popped up across the forest floor. But in actuality, these lovely plants developed quite slowly. And with the Earth’s patient tendering, they’ll live for up to 25 years. Amazing…

As I marveled at their natural beauty, I had a thought. Spring is a time for new beginnings. And like these beautiful plants, new beginnings are fragile, requiring patience and care.

I recognize that my human self expects immediate change. But my knowing self appreciates that there’s a timing beyond my understanding. Well worth the wait, I’m certain.

For now, I’ll stay close to the heart of the Earth…patiently awaiting new life.

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

Promise

A few days ago, I awoke to a glimmer of sunlight peering through the clouds. After a long succession of cold, rainy days, my heart sang. With camera in hand, I headed to one of my favorite wandering places.

Though the calendar still registered winter, I could feel a hint of spring. And I spotted a few crocuses reaching for the sun. How were they even possible? The ground had been blanketed with snow not so long ago.

And I had a thought. Perhaps the flowers were a promise…nature’s promise that life persists no matter what. A reassurance that the Spirit of the Earth is constantly manifesting Her dreams and visions, and welcoming us into Her creative realm.

In that moment, I exhaled…grateful for a preview of spring.

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