Nicole Jacobs - Natural Setting #1

Recently our class took a walk to the Noland Trail. Upon entering the peaceful area several natural characteristics became prevalent; before our tour throughout the trail began my friend and I were waiting by the water and the geese and ducks felt comfortable enough to approach and follow us! Of course these birds are familiar with daily human interaction, however, the level of friendliness was almost frightening due to the normal timidness i have previously experienced with such animals. Next, as the class arrived and we continued onwards we were reminded to be mindful of even the simplest and most common creatures, who, as well are considered sacred. On the trail I witnessed the fresh, new, greening and blossoming grass, damp with the rainfall from earlier in the afternoon. Also, butterflies, bees and caterpillars seemed to be more noticeable than ever before. By actually forcing myself to sit down, watch and observe the natural environment I was able to experience more movement and nature life than i had ever observed before. As Dillard had indicated her her text: Pilgrim at Tinker Creek, "seeing receptivity demands spiritual training." This "seeing" required patience and intensiveness, but payed off and was very rewarding. Also as Dillard writes: Nature runs wild because God, too, is an untamed lover of freedom.