The Gifts

 

I think everyone is in need of comfort and reassurance right now. The world seems in chaos. Fires, demonstrations, deaths, a pandemic, nasty, unconscionable politics. I for one am longing for peace. Security. Quiet. Solace. A crawl-back-in-the-womb moment.

In some ways I’m just realizing that Nature is my solace. I’ve always known that other than spending time with my family, I’m happiest outside, among trees, flowers, animals, in nature. But it’s still kind of a lightning bolt. Maybe, to my deep sorrow, because I can’t be with my family right now.

Recently, I was watching a program I had taped a while ago called The Whale Detective. I realized my breathing had slowed, I was totally absorbed, fascinated and happy. The ocean, the beauty of the Humpback whales, the people studying them. Everything.  The man who was reporting the documentary had actually had a not-too-pleasant close encounter with a Humpback. One had actually breached and had fallen on his and his companion’s kayak while whale watching in Monterrey Bay. Still he wanted to study them, be near them, understand them. So, seeing whales in person is definitely on my bucket list. Always has been. I can’t imagine anything more thrilling.

Last month, I encouraged myself and you to be patient and to believe in the best outcome. I wish I had some words of wisdom, some reassurance. Something I’m having a hard time with, myself, now. So all I can say is try to find what calms you. Reading, music, video games, exercise, nature, Netflix. Your loved ones. Whatever.

Look for the lesson in this.

Look for the Gifts. They are there.