Jane Goodall writes “Each one of us carries seeds for change. Although our contributions are different, everyone has a role to play. “As a gardener and tree hugger I can relate to the concept of seeds within me. Several weeks ago, a group of children picked pods of dried milkweed to spread throughout the Nook. As the children carefully split the pods open they marveled at the beauty of the soft brown velvety seeds and the delicate wisps of cotton fluff attached to them. Some of the children spent the time to carefully separate the individual seeds before releasing them into the breeze, while others grabbed handfuls of seeds and tossed them quickly into the wind. No matter what their method was, all of these children came together to make a difference in their world. What we all need to remember is that our small individual acts of kindness combine with other acts to make a huge impact upon the world. 

One of my favorite books is The Boy, the mole, the fox and the Horse. As this unusual group travels together they share profound wisdom with one another. “When the big things feel out of control focus on what you love right under your nose.” Especially during these stressful times, the healing energy of nature is all around us. I love the sound of the birds’ songs in the morning, the gobbles of the turkeys as they gather together, the haunting calls of the Sandhill Cranes as they fly overhead. I laugh out loud when I watch the squirrels scurrying up and down the trees, or watch a herd of fawns splashing together in a huge mud puddle. Peace and contentment washes over me as I listen to a chorus of Spring Peepers or watch the first fireflies and bats flying in the summer night.

In return for all that wildlife and nature bring to us we must work to preserve and protect both their habitat and their right to exist. Simple acts of providing spring and winter nest boxes and leaving brush piles for winter cover and dens. Planting native plants that provide year round food, especially for pollinators. Leaving areas of your property unmowed and not raked. Eliminating the use of harmful pesticides that harm us all. Educating ourselves on the natural history of the wildlife around us so that we can learn how to coexist with them. Supporting local and national non-profits that are working to improve and save the lives of wildlife and nature. Each and every day we all need to remember that even the smallest act of kindness can save a precious life. 

With Blessings and Hope,
Cheryl