Mother Nature Welcomes Human Nature

Mother Nature drew the shades tight today. The darkness has fallen into the night and it is only noon. The lights illuminate my abode as if it were midnight, as a pouring February rain leaves droplets on the windows. The tapping sounds of the cloudburst resemble the beat of Celtic dancing on my rooftop. A gloomy day turns beautiful in the mind of an appreciative soul and that soul is me. “Thank you for this day!” I loudly exclaim.

We, as fragile, imperfect creatures allow so much to enter into our lives and upset our individual apple carts. It is a character flaw to be sure, but one that needs constant attention for improvement. How can we grow spiritually, intellectually, acceptingly or even lovingly if we refuse to open our eyes, minds, and hearts? It saddens me when I witness some extremely opinionated people who refuse to show even an iota of curiosity in regard to varying viewpoints. Many times I have written or spoken my mind on a particular subject, only to be educated in the errors of my ways. Once I get over the initial shock of someone questioning my infinite wisdom, I will delve further into their argument or reasoning presented. Many times I have changed courses, midstream and reversed myself. No harm, no foul…apologizing is good for the soul.

I’m puzzled by those who claim they do not watch news shows or read newspapers. Where is their curiosity about local, state, national and international events? Can you somehow bury your head in the sand without wondering about world disasters, wars, hunger, economies and social unrest? However, they may also be exposed to scenic cities, do good and feel good stories from around the world, international relief efforts and a myriad of humanitarian acts performed globally. How sad not to allow ones’ self the exposure to such magnificence that abounds.

Spring is right around the corner and I await the arrival as though I am a 7-year-old boy anticipating my birthday presents. Are you excited about watching Mother Earth begin her paintings of greens, yellows, purples and the kaleidoscope of spectacular colors that hang in the gallery of our senses? I’m at a loss when some people would rather sit inside and watch television or play video games and ignore the splendor in the grass. A certain joy and contentment that overwhelms me when smelling a newly mowed lawn. I relish the sight of the year’s first robins, hummingbirds, and butterflies. Unfortunately, I was out of commission toward the end of spring and for the entire summer season last year. In my zeal to prep the flower beds and vegetable garden, I had overfilled the wheelbarrel with compost and mulch. When the weight shifted I overcompensated and immediately went for an innie belly button to an outie. This resulted in a severe umbilical hernia and surgery that kept me out of action. I loathed turning the reins over to a lawn service, but such is life and sometimes we have to admit our limitations.

Each Spring I am blessed with both gracefulness and awkwardness when the protective doe emerges from the woods behind my house, and places on exhibit her newborn fawn. I watch…hypnotized…as the mother stands frozen; only turning her head in an ongoing effort of vigilance over her newborn. My grin is broad as the fawn, with legs so fragile, begins the awkward dance of life. How can people not appreciate such blessings? Is it a character flaw when a person shuns animals and nature?

Toward the end of March, the rotor tiller comes out of hibernation, gets all cleaned and gassed up in its annual CPR class to resuscitate the long dormant garden. Even in the cold northeastern United States, gourmet lettuce plants can and are planted and my garden is no different. Oh, can you feel the love? Having an organic garden with fresh vegetables brings out the Farmer Brown in me. I am the closest to God when my hands are digging in the soil. The dreams of a future harvest conjure up images of vine ripened tomatoes, pickling, and regular cucumbers, onions, radishes, string beans, squash, zucchini, and the nine months wait for the garlic which was buried in October. Of course, nature and her elements play a major role in whether the crops will be plentiful or not, but it doesn’t deter me in my quest.

Getting older, a flare-up of a long forgotten medical condition and a recent hospital stay has led me in new directions. First of all, is the harsh realization of my own reflection in the mirror (shaving isn’t that much fun anymore) and understanding that even though I mentally feel I’m in my thirties, the fact of the matter is certain physical limitations prove age has crept into my life. Secondly, things which once seemed so monumental are now so insignificant. No longer do I take for granted experiences or life in general. When I view the hilltops, valleys or streams, I see the minute details each provides. I literally do smell the flowers and embrace the environment around me.

See, taste, feel, hear and smell the world around you because it is so fleeting and yet so beautiful in its bounties. Remember; don’t sweat the small stuff in life, because when you are on your deathbed, it is all small stuff. Live life, hug it dearly and always be thankful.

Written By: Dennis L. Page

IF YOU BELIEVE IT...YOU CAN DO IT!