I have never been one to learn the scientific name of every plant, flower, bird, cloud formation or the type of rock that makes up a mountain. Of course, the labeling and categorization of such things provides the entry point to a deeper understanding of nature, and I do admire those who pursue and delight in developing such expertise. It could be that my brain is not suited for such memorization, much less a rigorous scientific analysis of how things function and interact in the world.

Throughout my life I have been drawn to how a particular scene in nature — a forest, a mountain, a desert, a lake, a beach — makes me feel. Does this landscape stir my soul? If it does, I know right off because I can feel it pulsing inside of me. But why? What is it about a place that moves me? This is what I wish to explore. The surge I sometimes feel. What is it exactly? Where does it come from? The sense of wonder, the interconnectedness? Why is it that in certain places I sense a magic? Is it the beauty? The solitude? The sense of geological time? The earth’s energy?

This, I imagine, is a mystic’s approach to viewing nature. Some would probably say it’s also a lazy way to go about it, and it certainly is in contrast to the scientific approach, but simply being present and attuned to my feelings while in nature brings me immense joy. You, I hope, will continue to develop and strengthen your connection with nature over time. If you wish to know the rocks and the sky, know the rocks and the sky. If you wish to know the wildlife and the roll each animal plays in all of this, by all means, do it. If you simply wish to find the best places to sit and gaze in wonder, this I can assure you: only good will come of it. Regardless of how you decide to engage with nature, my hope is that you will always seek it, and care for it, and hold it forever in your heart as a fundamental piece of a well balanced and meaningful life.