Various answers were given, and I was having trouble putting words to what nature means to me....but, of course, now AFTER the conversation, I have lots of words....
Nature is a part of me. It lights me up. At this point in my life, I am happiest outside, with camera in hand. There is so much to see and experience! I had lost that for a long time, and it has been re-awakened in the past couple of years.
One morning at work not too long ago, I was excitedly showing photos of a sunset I had taken the night before on the way home from work. Explained that I had to struggle to find a place to stop to get the shot. The response was something to the effect of "Oh, you're still new here. Pretty soon they'll just blend in and be another sunset. You'll get used to it like the rest of us." WHAT??? No, I don't think I will. Every sunset is different. Every monsoon has a different feel. Every cactus blooms in its own way. I'm not just taking a picture - it's an experience being captured.
On the Alaskan cruise mentioned in my previous post, I couldn't be outside enough. The views were great from all areas of the ship, but being outside made it even better. Towards the end of the cruise, we had some rough seas for about 24 hours. After going back to my cabin for the night, here's me - standing out on the balcony around midnight, in my pajamas and a coat, braced against the railing and the divider to the balcony next door so I wouldn't fall over, trying to get video of the ship crashing through the waves. It was cold, REALLY windy, and it was exhilarating! Next morning, woke up early, still rough seas, so I jumped out of bed, ran back out on to the balcony to experience it all over again. Loved it! (Later that morning other people were mentioning something about seasickness and not enjoying it....I don't think they appreciated my excitement....)
The conversation last night also focused on how in a world where we are now electronically connected 24/7 to everyone and everything, we are quickly losing our connection with each other and with nature. I completely agree, and see examples every time I take a hike.
The weather here on Memorial Day was spectacular. I knew the best views would be at Pinnacle Peak, so I headed on over to experience the awesomeness and shoot a few photos. Of course, half of those living in the Phoenix area had the same idea. Or so I thought.
On the one hand, I have to give everyone who was there credit for actually going outside on a beautiful day for a quick hike. On the other hand, I really wonder how many of them actually realized where they were and wanted to connect with their surroundings. They appeared to be there to just walk the trail and then go off to do other things. I saw very few actually look at and appreciate all the plants, animals, rock formations - much less try to disconnect from the busy-ness and connect with nature.
Most were walking and talking about: all of the stupidity at work, or the Netflix series they were addicted to, or gossiping, or family drama, etc. Um, I think they were missing the point of being outside on a hike.
Those who were there to run the trail for exercise had their earbuds in and were focused on the trial.
When I stopped to take pictures, I was blocking their way. They never saw the view, the bird, the plant, or the chipmunk that caught my attention. Actually, they mainly crashed by and scared away any wildlife. At the view point, they took their selfies, had a drink of water and moved on. Again, I think they missed the whole idea of having a view point....
For me, "stop and smell the roses" is more than just a saying. Really - how often do we actually stop AND EXPERIENCE the roses? When I take a hike, I usually take a few breaks to just sit on the ground, or rock, or bench if there is one, and take in my surroundings. To hear the birds, bees, flies, and whatever else might be around me. To see the clouds. To feel the breeze (if there is one) or the sun beating down on me. Sometimes I leave my camera at home on purpose (torture, really) so I can see the whole of the landscape, not just what I can see through my viewfinder.
Nature feeds me - mind, body & spirit.
Nature can be gentle and comforting, or it can be harsh and dangerous. It needs to be respected at all times.
When I share my photos on social media, it's not to show my emerging skills as a photographer - it's to share the beauty of what's right in front of us and all around us. To inspire others to see the beauty for themselves.
So, after all of my rambling, I ask you the same question: what does nature mean to you??
Now, because this is my blog, of course, there are photos to be added. Here is what I saw that day at Pinnacle Peak that others may have missed....
You can focus on the trail....
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Or see the view from the trail.....
Pinnacle Peak on a stunning Arizona day....
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