On Sat, 30 Oct 1999, eric + michiko wrote:
>
> But, Sandra, wouldn't you admit that it is easier to connect with Nature
> when there's more of it around, especially when it is the major shaper of
> the space, not humans? Though I agree that it is entirely possible to
> connect with Nature in an urban environment, I would have a hard time
> agreeing that it can be done to the same degree or that it is equally
> possible. If you've managed to do it, you have learned something of value
> to us all. Most of our increasing numbers seem to be gravitating towards
> urban environments. I'd be interested in what you have to share.
Most of us live our lives with our senses and our ability to connect
completely or mostly deadened. We are able to perceive and work with only
that which is easy. That which is easy is only a shadow on the surface of
what is actually there. Those who can truly find and connect with nature
in those places where it is thinnest, and most remote will see far more
than the easy surfaces of nature and wilderness that most of us settle
for.
One place I lived, I was not good at sweeping the dust off the driveway.
Winter sand and salt, dirt washed from a small garden then dried to dust
filled a crack between the asphalt and the building. A viola seed found
it's way there and a viola bloomed there.
I would define nature as that which has the impetus to grow and die
and change everything.
But then, I am very, very tired, on many, many levels, and probably don't
have a clue what I am talking about.
sph
Sandra P. Hoffman [EMAIL PROTECTED]
http://www.flora.org/sandra/
----------------------------
The one small garden of a free gardener was all his need and due,
not a garden swollen to a realm;
his own hands to use,
not the hands of others to command. --Sam Gamgee
