In the busiest of times, when so much change is around us, I find myself distracted and losing focus. I could not even seem to find the time to write this blog post. I just put my head down, and I work, forgetting to lift my eyes and see. I get caught up in the hurried busyness of life, and I feel the disconnect in my soul.  

What I need is nature – a place where God is easily glorified. Perhaps it is time to visit the garden, or maybe the trees. I grew up in the middle of a national forest, so trees feel like a part of my DNA. I am drawn to the splendor of them, to every cell, every vein. In each, the beauty of God is revealed. I know it is time again to take a walk among the trees, to refocus, rediscover, and recollect the goodness of God.  

When I Am Among the Trees

Mary Oliver (2006)

When I am among the trees, 
especially the willows and the honey locust, 
equally the beech, the oaks, and the pines, 
they give off such hints of gladness. 
I would almost say that they save me, and daily. 
I am so distant from the hope of myself, 
in which I have goodness, and discernment, 
and never hurry through the world 
but walk slowly, and bow often. 
Around me the trees stir in their leaves 
and call out, “Stay awhile.” 
The light flows from their branches. 
And they call again, “It’s simple,” they say, 
“and you too have come 
into the world to do this, to go easy, to be filled 
with light, and to shine.”