This year I will celebrate my 65th birthday by sitting outside at sunrise with a cup of hot coffee, watching as the deer that I have raised over the years wander in to graze in my field. Next the turkeys will arrive and I will watch with delight as the mothers and aunts dart about frantically trying to keep all the chicks together in one group. Shortly after the turkeys arrive the ground hogs will slowly wander out of their dens and the squirrels will scamper down from the trees to enjoy the morning feast I have left out for them. As I finish my coffee, the birds will serenade me with their songs and my morning ritual will be complete.

Throughout the day my time will be spent caring for the hundreds of animals and birds here at the Nook. Later in the evening, I will celebrate with John and friends at one of my favorite restaurants. After returning home, I will once again sit outside and watch with childlike rapture at the firefly ballet that surrounds me. The firefly light show is the best birthday gift, and it returns year after year for free.

Recently I read that at the end of his life, Buddha laid down between two trees and as the villagers gathered around him his last words were “Make yourself a light”. Each morning as the sun slowly rises I watch with wonder at the miracle of nature that surrounds me and I feel this light within me. I often wish that everyone could begin their day in this way. Perhaps the world would be a different place if they could. The energy of nature ignites the light within us all by filling our minds with peace and our hearts with love. Healed by the light of nature we can go out into the world and share this light with others. Working together we can cherish and protect nature, wildlife and our fellow man.

Blessings and Nature’s Light,
Cheryl