We are but a speckle
Yet, Nature reminds us that we can make significant impact.
“We don’t need a lot to be happy, but we do need things that are real. (…) When we deny ourselves the authentic experience of being alive, we reach for more when what we really want is not to stretch wider, but to go deeper.” ~ Brianna Wiest
This reminder was incredibly aligned with what came up for me this past Super Full Moon.
Wiest talks about how we need concrete things we can touch, feel and live with. A glorious reminder to slow down, find ease, and connect. That we are alive and with purpose. And for me, what anchors my body in this reminder is this realisation that we are but made of the earth; and that going back to Mother Nature - and spending time with her blueprint replenishes ours in return.
Nature reminds me that I’m flesh & blood. A small speckle made up of Her, amongst the vastness of the earth.
Like the ants can impact the ecosystem greatly - even being so tiny - I too can impact the world at large, on a greater surface: By being myself; by living in harmony with Her; and by doing so within, amongst, and in community. I might be a speckle, but I can move, shift, and make an impact in my surroundings. I’m not powerless, even when I think I am. Nature reminds me of this every time I stop moving so fast, pay attention, and listen.
How the simple breeze on my skin brings me back to the present moment.
How to heat of the sun brings me back to the awareness of my body, and how it too needs to be fed with water & light.
How the moon’s rays comforts me into sweet reminders that even in the darkness, I’m not alone. That I can bravely step within it, knowing I will come back out eventually. That it is a natural cycle to do so for healing.
How noticing the water flowing is a strong reminder that nothing stands still forever. That with movement comes change, growth & anew.
How to birds’ songs invite me to dance, sing, laugh & let myself fly into fun & creativity. Not take myself too seriously at times.
How when the leaves turn colour and let go, that simple act of falling and decomposing reminds me that although there is grief in death - and the knowing that nothing lasts forever - there is new that awaits. And that is absolutely beautiful.
I could go on. There are many mindful lessons when we observe nature do its thing. Those are the things, moments, and experiences that can be touched, seen, and that energetically resonates deeply in our bodies. That connects our blueprints together to create ripple effects on a larger scale. It’s what brings us back into the body, in the present, and into consciousness. Being a small speckle, yes, but one who is concrete, alive, and who has power to move change.
These are the physical witnessings that grip at my heart, enlivens me, and reminds me that I am on this earth, in a physical body, for a reason. Even when that reason is not always clear to me. Nature reminds me to let go, trust the fall, and enjoy to rebirth that comes after.
Have you noticed how Nature makes you feel?
What comes up for you when you’re out there, slowing down, and paying attention?
Oh you are singing my song! So glad to find this post. I enjoyed the images and sounds and your descriptions. The post I shared on Sarah Fay’s office hours is called Talking Back to Walden. I think you might enjoy it. “We are made of the earth” -- indeed. https://open.substack.com/pub/buildinghope/p/talking-back-to-walden-aa1?r=4cg2x&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web
Love this!
I rely on nature a lot for my peace too. Sometimes, a simple walk in the park outside can uplift our mood. Sometimes, the sound of the birds is all we need to be reminded that it's the little joys in life(and the fact that these voices still exist in the middle of a city) that matter.
Great post!