Yes, we need to stay informed so we can take the actions citizens of a democracy need to take to protect life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, but we don't have to do that ALL the time. Or we won't have time to live that life, take advantage of that liberty, and find that happiness.
We can take breaks and marvel at the amazing world around us. We can explore the amazing gills of an amanita mushroom closely
Then turn it over and look at the top.
Enjoy the beauty of a pair of red dianthus.
We can take pleasure in the things my mom collected that were light enough to pack home and that we can use, like this insect blocker as we put out food on the deck for a dinner on a delightful Alaskan evening. It was still wrapped and sealed. But my mom saw it somewhere and thought it would come in handy. And it does. Though the insects haven't been nearly as bad this summer as in the past.
So get away from those computers and smart phones and go natural for a while. Talk to the people around you about what makes you happy. Breathe the clean air. Ride a bike. Bake a bread.
Something I've never quite lost is a boy's fascination with what is seen when earth is dug, a rock overturned, leaves on ground moved. It's the world of bugs, slugs, and roots.
ReplyDeleteI still can spend lost time watching all the goings-on of things that often aren't seen. Perhaps it's not beauty, but it's a living.
And ants. Did I say snts? Always a joy.
Such is life!