While out for my morning walk a few days ago I noticed this tree. The patterns on the bark intrigued me and I was curious about how those patterns were created. My knowledge of trees is very limited and my research skills are less than stellar. So I have been wondering ever since what this tree is offering me by way of knowledge and wisdom. Are all these shapes and bumps in the bark “scars” caused by some sort of attack perhaps by insects or animals chewing on it? Or is this the result of a natural process of shedding that has created a vision equivalent to that of an abstract painting? I don’t know. I just know there is beauty in it that I have taken the time to notice and appreciate. I wonder if others have noticed it. No doubt they have.

While I stood there observing the tree I felt like it was watching me as well. Perhaps you too can see the eyes in the bark. It was like one of those sci-fi movies where the trees come alive in the forest and start attacking the humans who have intruded in their space. Yet, I was not aware of any antagonistic energy between us. More curiosity on both our parts. I have walked by this tree many times and never before taken the time to actually be there with it and allow myself to be touched by its energy in a conscious way until I now. It is amazing what we can discover both about ourselves and about creation all around us just by paying attention.

A Colourful Image

Later on another walk I found I was more aware and vigilant about noticing the things around me. I felt the energy buzzing in me. Suddenly, this beautiful flower caught my eye. I was taken in by the rich colour in contrast to all the earthy browns and greens of the forest. It stood out in a way that seemed to say “look at me”. I asked my friend who was walking with me what kind of plant it is. She told me it is a thistle. I don’t remember seeing a thistle in bloom before though I am sure I have at some point. The distinction between the sharp needle like thorns on the bulb and the stem of the plant compared to the softness of the purple head of the flower is worth noting. It was the soft spiky petals that caught my attention or I would have walked on by without any particular notice of the beauty of this otherwise ordinary plant, whatever ordinary means.

Intrigued by the Flow of Water

At a recent visit to the Sulphur Springs Conservation area near Hanover, Ontario, I found myself drawn in by the sound of the water. This was significant for me because until I got new hearing aids, the sound of water flowing over rocks was something I had not heard for a very long time. I only watched it. It was amazing to me as I experienced both the sound and visual aspects of water, rocks, earth and plants all working together. The experience was something that is hard for me to explain. It was as if the water was flowing over my body. All my senses were working together. Not only was I hearing and seeing it I was feeling it even though I was standing on the edge of the stream as it flowed on by. My Spirit became one with the Earth and I sensed it in my body. This is the beauty of paying attention and being mindful when surrounded by nature.

What I now know for sure, dear readers, is we are all part of this beautiful planet called Earth and no matter how we ignore the signs in front of us we will always be connected. What affects one of us affects all of us on some level.

I took time that day to give thanks to the trees and water and Spirits of the Land for the life giving energy that is offered through their presence with us. We are truly blessed in ways we can never fully comprehend. I pray for the forests and water and for all the humans who are destroying the land so that we all wake up and pay attention before we destroy what gives us life.

As we walk gently upon this Earth we call home let us give thanks.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. I would love to read about your experiences with nature.