The Natural World

We might be surprised at what we can learn if we open ourselves to the unexpected.

When I spend time quiet and alone with the land it resources me like nothing else. Stepping out into a new day and leaving the village behind as light stretches out over the eastern horizon feels as if I have a secret assignation with Mystery and can be myself again – remember who I really am.

I see the world through quiet eyes, and listen in a fresh, unguarded way. How I am doesn’t have to make sense to anyone else - I am free. Sometimes for a few days– sometimes just for a few hours. It is worth the effort to let go of time and commitments and have no agenda- just to be silent and listen.

To go out empty and alone, without companionship or shelter is a gift to ourselves. Scary for some, terrifying for others, yet a gift to our soul. Both children and adults can remember how to notice the signs and symbols of the natural world, how she speaks to us in simple ways and offers guidance and her own unique wisdom if we just give her the space and time. There is nothing new in this…our forebears embodied this understanding. We have just forgotten.

We can translate these experiences into our everyday. An encounter with a tree, bird or caterpillar becomes a mutual greeting. The world becomes alive to us – an opportunity to meet with the sacred in each step we take. We can be changed by living this way. When we listen to the wind, we may feel witnessed- seen- equally recognised.