In the cool of the morning I like to stroll down this smooth pebbled path. It exudes tranquility and calms my spirit. My eyes are captivated by the little patches of daisies and creeping phlox tattered around the edges of the path with fresh dew clinging to them. The pale yellow and deep purple flowers provide an eye pleasing contrast to the hues of the lush green of the forest. my senses are awash with the cool air and the smell of the damp trees. In the still of the morning I can hear the soft crunch of the discarded leaves and pine needles strewn on the path. As I wander on I can hear the forest starting to come to life. The gentle breeze softly shakes the branches, pitter patters of feet start to stir and buzzing wings of various sizes take flight.
I am delighted to see little brown squirrels with their soft bushy tails and soft eyes scamper about. Before long I see a family of white rabbits. Each one with subtle unique markings. I think there are five of them, the mother and four bashful little babies dutifully following her. I muse to myself with delight on how precious baby animals are and how much I enjoy seeing them. As I continue to quietly scan my surroundings, my eye catches a brilliantly colored blue dragonfly taking a long drink from a tiny pool of water gathered on a withered leaf. He looks up and seemingly acknowledges me with a slight nod of his head. I gleefully nod back and tell him good morning as I smile from ear to ear. Then I spot a family of brightly colored hummingbirds fluttering around a dark green bush with soft orange flowers gracefully hidden behind a huge feathery red fern. I am simply amazed how quietly busy they are gathering their nectar for breakfast.
As my soothing stroll continues along in this wonderous place, Mother Nature continues to wake up her brood for the day. I am in awe of all of the beautiful sights to behold. I must be careful not to disturb even the smallest creature. As i reach the halfway point on the path there is a familiar and comfortable wooden bench that I put there some time ago. Over the years the bench has been through all kinds of weather, both gentle April showers and harsh December gales. In spite of the adversities of the weather my bench steadfastly remains with the groove of my body worn into the right side of it.
It is here that I often sit quietly, sometimes for hours, just observing everything in this outdoor palace. I delight in watching every living thing from the tiny black ant to the swaying flowers to the few owls lofted snugly into the sturdy oaks. It is not long before the entire forest is awake and abuzz with activity.
The delicate balance between all of these creatures amazes me and can be obvious to anyone who will sit long enough to see it. There is much to be learned as well. The peace and harmony that exists here is an invaluable lesson if we would all just take a moment to recognize it.
I very much enjoy beginning my day with my walk on this path. It seems there is always something new to see and enjoy. All of the plant and animal life are amazing to behold. No matter what is going on in my life and the world, this place washes it all away and leaves my spirit refreshed and ready to face another day. No matter where you are or what time it is, a walk through even a little slice of nature can bring a sensation of happiness and renewal in this crazy and busy world.
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