The power of place in sanctuaries of the spirit
Let there be intervals when we shall do nothing, think nothing, plan nothing, but just lay ourselves on the green lap of nature and “rest awhile.
From Streams in the Desert
Two days ago. The afternoon of Christmas Eve 2021. I drove out to the state park, 400 acres of salt marsh, tidal creeks, maritime forests, gardens full of blooming camellias, ancient, moss-draped live oak and tall pines, all there waiting to help dispel the gloom that had been settling over me this holiday season.
This sanctuary in the middle of a bustling city is quiet and far removed from the world around it, which is full of traffic and sirens and busy people hurrying to and fro. This is my escape from it all, 15 minutes from where I live, and on that afternoon, an hour before closing, I encountered only a couple of other people besides myself. Quiet. Christmas Eve. A bench to rest on awhile under live oaks, facing the marsh and tidal creek, where in the far distance I could see the city, its colleges, hospital complexes, tall bridge over the river that leads directly to the nearby sea.
It was about 65 degrees with a cool breeze off the marsh. I breathed in fresh sea air. I felt calm and cleansed as late afternoon sunlight and shadows accompanied me during the conclusion of my walk.
As always after this experience, I felt like a different person. Time temporarily lost itself in quietude and the subtle, yet intricate beauty of this magical place. I relaxed completely. I observed every little detail I could, just as I have so many times before at that exact spot over the years.
It is as near and dear to my heart, and as familiar a place as I could ever know in this life. It’s very being and presence are why I feel so unalterably attached to this singular location, this dot on the map, which is where I can experience the mystery and grandeur of Nature, hidden in plain sight.
I have been privileged over a lifetime to be able to keenly know about and appreciate these gifts and truths, discovered in Nature, as I observe, gaze in wonder at things that pop out on the forest floor, and see patterns, shapes, colors — little things I can’t ignore. Blue skies, clouds, sunlight. All of this comes to me, and I am aware of my true home. For a brief, blessed interval of real time, I let my troubles dissolve into nothingness, and I am one with my surroundings.
In back of a shadow there is always the sun.
Look closely at what Nature reveals
https://www.flickr.com/gp/camas/3L2Xjf
I have read over a small number of your previous entries. They are smooth, well-organized thoughts. Peace to you during this holiday season.
@iamnur Thank you so much for the kind words. I look forward to hearing more from you about my writing. Reactions from readers keeps me writing and enthusiastic about the whole process.
Good wishes and peace to you as well in 2022.
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Each should be so lucky to have such a spot as yours. Peace and quiet. My mom used to say she wanted some each time we kids got loud. I am happy for your time spent with a minute of sheer abandon. 😎
@tracker2020 Oh yes… I am extremely fortunate. This is a Nature sanctuary like non other I have known or experienced, and it is so close to where I live.
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Nature really is the great healer. You are so lucky to have such a wonderful place so close that you can easily go there any time you need solitude or comforting. There is nothing so close where I live, & I miss being able to do that so much! And it will still be close even when you’ve moved into your apartment, won’t it?
@ghostdancer Yes, it’s actually closer. The new place is in probably the best location I could find.
@oswego That’s great — something on the plus size about the move. Hoping you can find more pluses, to help with the incipient sense of loss. {{hugs}}
@ghostdancer 😌☺️ I’m looking for them, and there are a lot of pluses, but the counter-balancing negatives make for a rather precarious ride initially. 🤔🥺
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