What was nature to you as a child? Was nature a park, backyard, farm, summer camp, a favorite tree or distant forest?
Looking back, nature to me was where I hid for solitude, peace and relief from the chatter of humans. Growing up I shared a big bedroom with my two sisters. My family belonged to a close-knit community village and from sunup to sundown my days were spent with a cohort of kids. I was rarely alone. As an introvert, I built small forts in every private nook and cranny I could find, both in our attic and the woods beyond. They were places where I could sit alone and just be. Little did I know that I was forging a lifetime practice of sit areas and connections to life beyond the human world. Connections that continue to bring me peace and great joy. As much as I love my human community, I also appreciate the company of all the birds, squirrels, racoons and skunks that scurry around and about my quiet sit areas after hours.