As we are at the midway point in this indescribable year, I am finding a little self-reflection is in order. Along with many folks, there are times when navigating each day is something that I must work myself up for. And most of those days, it takes every bit of fortitude and perseverance that I can muster. I exist on my little piece of this earth, surrounded by, but not too close to, my loving family, my friends, and my co-workers. I am watching the world go by from this place and seeing so much discomfort, distrust, anger, hate, anxiousness, fear, loathing, and untruths. I have been baffled by people I respect who have given their lives to graciousness, be less than gracious. People who are complete strangers raising their voices at the grocery store over standing too close, or heaven forbid the lack of Clorox wipes. People using social media as a platform for tearing others down and spreading bitterness and contempt. Pretty much everyone I visit with laments about how “crazy” the world is right now. And we all seem to be rolling in this craziness, like a dog in a cow pie. In my personal pursuit of solace, and whenever I can, I have turned my view to Mother Nature. Good ole’ Mother Nature isn’t slowing her pace and is not spending any time focusing on Covid or all the hatred in the world. To use a 70’s adage, she just keeps on truckin’ on; the birds keep chirping, the deer are raising their precious babies, the wind is blowing through the pine trees, the rivers and creeks are running at full capacity, the fish are swimming, the bees are buzzing, the flowers are blooming, the sun is shining. She knows that there is no other option except to just keep going. Being close to nature is such a gift of encouragement to keep pushing forward. As Montanans, isn’t this a large part of the reason we choose to live in this spectacular state?
Now, as a flawed human, it’s not my place to tell you that sitting in the middle of a field of wildflowers, breathing in the freshness of Montana’s pure air, will save the world. But, really, what would it hurt? Perhaps it might clear your mind, help you discover a new focus, find peace and grace? And when we get up each day and tackle the challenges that fill of our day-to-day lives, maybe we can find calm in the thoughts of Mother Nature. When our minds are peaceful, we can find strength and answers to some darn tough challenges. She paints a beautiful picture for us to experience if we are open to receiving it. So, get outside, and open your eyes to Mother Nature’s beauty. Find a comfortable place to just be still and if you cannot, take a few moments to gaze out your window. What do you see?
Brenda Peterson, President for The Wendt Agency
