Daily Practice of Witnessing Nature's Gifts

Once again, it is a sunny afternoon here in Belgium. The sight of each bird flitting onto the grass, each autumn leaf swirling in the air, nudges me to become more mindful, and want to trust our human species-and our human condition, no matter how flawed it seems.

Each morning, as I walk by yellow fields of corn, rapeseed, and sunflowers, I stroll past goats, sheep, horses, deer-even stray donkeys-and feel alive in every cell of my being. Witnessing the spirit of these animals existing in nature in their purest form comforts me, nurtures my soul.

My boots tread over familiar dirt paths. Horses winney as I walk past. I don't know their names, yet I call out to them and wave.

This daily practice of witnessing nature's gifts guides me in many areas of my life. Being present with such beauty and simplicity helps me make decisions-major ones, like where to live, and whom to work with-and minor ones, such as which flavor of tea to sip after lunch.

I'm following the footsteps of my grandfather, who spent an hour strolling before work each morning. Spotting colorful birds in neighborhood trees kept his mind alert, and his soul intact.

Starting my day by being fully present to each moment in nature brings me hope for the future of our planet, and all living beings. The practice teaches me compassion. That is why I dare to believe that somehow, all the messes that humans have created up to now will work themselves out.

In the meantime, however, I am ready to be a catalyst-and a deep listener-to take action and help others understand how important it is to protect all beings on Earth, and our planet.