This is a poem by David Wagoner that really speaks to our connection to the earth. I believe Earth (Nature) is one of the portals we have here on earth to God, Divine, Source.
It’s a particularly tough time in the world right now. We are all still recovering from two years of the pandemic and easing into our daily routines again. Many of the old structures and ways have been dismantled causing change and confusion. We need these old structures and those who lead them to change. So, while this is positive — it is a transitory and unsure time.
This poem offers a beautifully simple solution for when you feel lost or disconnected. An openness to being present with what is around you through breath and awareness of nature around you.
There are many things around us that are direct portals or sources to the Divine. But, other examples are poetry, animals, and music (especially classical).
Lost
Stand still. The trees ahead and bushes beside you
Are not lost. Wherever you are is called Here,
And you must treat it as a powerful stranger,
Must ask permission to know it and be known.
The forest breathes. Listen. It answers,
I have made this place around you.
If you leave it, you may come back again, saying Here.
No two trees are the same to Raven.
No two branches are the same to Wren.
If what a tree or a bush does is lost on you,
You are surely lost. Stand still. The forest knows
Where you are. You must let it find you.
— David Wagoner
The solar eclipse on Monday, August 21st, was a much-needed surprise for many of us. That morning, I facilitated a meeting with an executive team. We planned a morning break to view the eclipse. Our group walked nearby to the local library and stood among necks of all ages and colors, craned toward the sky. We shared protective glasses and helpful photography tips to capture one of nature’s most epic events.
Mother Nature has been the single greatest healer and inspiration to me in my life. She has been critical to Living my Jam because there’s nothing more conducive to intuitive thinking than alone time outdoors. I love being outside and walking through the trees. I began hiking years ago and have hiked all over the world. I’m incredibly fortunate to live in an area that has many beautiful state and local parks. My greatest pleasure is walking alone in nature because it’s the quiet of nature that allows me to slow down and access my highest-self. We all need a practice that slows us down and brings us closer to ourselves. These practices are conduits that help us access ourselves and our true inner knowing. From here, we can Discover our Jam, Live our Jam and Spread our Jam.
