Nature’s Magical MomentsReflections on nature and self
Norris, Tennessee
Wisdom Whispers through the Four-Fold Way
November 7–9
Malaprop's Bookstore/Cafe
55 Haywood St. Asheville, NC
May 1; 7pm
Reading and Discussion
Women's Spirit
The Mountain, NC
May 14–18
Elkmont—Great Smokey Mountains
Conscious Kinship: an Outdoor Experience for Women
May 28–30
Serenity in the Smokies
Forgiveness, Nature Meditations
September 18–21
Displays of Love
As I sat on the swing in my backyard, a soft gentle breeze began to sweep through the trees. My thoughts stilled and I suddenly became aware of all the colors around me. The trees had greened out overnight, forming a canopy of so many shades of green that it is hard to find words to describe them. As the sun broke through the leaves, rainbows of color filled the area. The brilliance of the moment took me by surprise. I became more and more aware of the newness of life that surrounded me. Wildflowers were scattered throughout the woods, displaying their soft colors.
My heart soared with wonder for the miracle of it all. As I sat embraced by the feeling of new birth and spring, two blue jays flew in for a drink of water. The male, looking brilliant in his “mating colors,” sat on the edge of the birdbath while the female drank the cool water from the basin. It appeared that he was watching out for her, protecting her from any possible harm as she nourished herself. When the blue jays left, two cardinals came and playfully flittered around the water. After the female refreshed herself, she joined the male on the edge of the birdbath, and they lovingly kissed each other before flying off into the cover of the trees.
These open displays of love and affection were enchanting. I was reminded of the love I have in my life. There have been times however, when I have felt unloved and unprotected. I don’t want to forget those times because those lonely moments have helped me learn how to give and receive love with an open heart. It is the memory of those dark spaces of time that cause me to stop and embrace the nature teachings of this warm sunny afternoon. The tree branches filling out, and creating a green canopy, shading the area so that the wildflowers can softly enter the world in all their color, remind me that each day of my life is a new beginning and that my life is bright and wonderful. The birds displaying their love and caring for each other remind me of the joyful love that blooms in my life. I’m not very different from the birds; we both soar with delight when we experience those precious moments of giving and receiving of love. Yes, it is a wonderful life, and when I stop long enough to look around me, the wonders of nature teach me how to live with a joyful and thankful heart.
Reflection:
What have the difficult moments in your life taught you about love?
How do you give and receive love from the people around you.
Affirmation:
I am a teacher of the heart who openly receives and extends love into the world.