Mere communion with nature, mere contact with the free air, exercise a soothing yet comforting and strengthening influence on the wearied mind, calm the storm of passion, and soften the heart when shaken by sorrow to its inmost depths. — Alexander von Humboldt
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How beautifully expressed! It sums up perfectly how I spent yesterday with a former colleague and treasured friend. Amid the heartbreak emanating minute-by-minute from the Gulf of Mexico, the precious time we shared walking in the beautiful arboretum at the University of California, Davis, provided the “healing” balm I desperately needed.
Generous rains California received during the last several months have created a spectacular panorama of lush greenery and flowers blooming of every variety imaginable. The air was sweet. The sounds of birds lovely music to our ears. The Davis Arboretum is home to all sorts of living beings but it was the squirrels and the ducks who were the stars of the day. Although teeming with life, the quiet was soothing. People were enjoying the experience and in spite of the activity, respect and appreciation for the beauty of nature were clearly evident.
Reflecting on the day, I thought about how increasingly disconnected humanity is from nature. Thankfully, there is a growing sense that humans are slowing beginning to recognize the necessity to connect with the natural world. Nature must always be defended and valued for its own reasons.
Rather than dwell on the calamity that mankind now struggles with in the Gulf of Mexico, I’m going to ask each of you to think about how you interact with nature. Ask yourself, “What can I do right in my own backyard to contribute positively to helping nature?” Visit this page on our website and see if one of these 10 facts might provide some insight into and motivation for you to help animals in your community.
Together we can contribute positively to our world. We appreciate and thank you for your support!
Til next time,
Susan