Meeting the Wanderer Within

When was the last time you took a wander through the woods?

We are often taught to engage with the world from the perspective of efficiency.

Upon entering the forest, she asks us to do away with our hurried mind,

offering the chance to greet the moment which lies before us.

The more we seek, the more we seem to find.

Indeed, it seems the most fruitful path to go may be to abandon the script of needing to be anywhere in particular.   

To arrive at the center of the path, what a wonderful place to begin.

The forest speaks,

We must find room enough from the noise of the world so to listen.   

Once we start to hear the song of the wind’s whispers, the notable force of the sun’s gleam through the trees,

then every petal is a roadmap, each leaf a scripture to uncover the next true step.

The more you let your mind be swept into the fantastic nature of the Earth's architecture, the more you can find the magic which dwells in the deceptively simple aspects of life already enveloping us.

At a time when our natural resources are at such a threat,

The depth of our action towards protecting and stewarding the natural world comes from our engagement with what this great Earth has to offer. 

Do not despair at the falling flowers which lie so far from you,

Greet the forest at your own doorstep,

Do not forget to water the wild which still exists in the corners of your eyes.   

How can you greet the land, earth and sky which surrounds you?

Bridges of Connection

Upon entering these new spaces, offer a prayer or intention to the place.

This establishes a dialogue between you and your surroundings.

Continue this dialogue through your attention.

Perhaps the birds song is a conversation for you to share in,

Or simply listen to.

When you enter a natural space, begin to practice the role of a wild gardener.

What do you have to offer the land through your knowledge and relationship to what surrounds you?

Whether it be by steering clear of native species under threat, or by clearing dead brush from the path,

Give offering to the places which you encounter.

Recognize your entwinement with the elements that greet you.

The dance of your relations can be as visceral offering song or words of love to the place you are connecting with.

Offer water to a wilting plant if you can spare it,

Gather the discarded rubble of careless travelers past,

Do it all with an understanding that you are walking with the Earth, not simply passing by her majesty..

Start today, this very moment.

Greet the world with a spacious curiosity, and no doubt you will find a home for yourself within the wild which gazes back to greet you.