Finding balance in our world today may be as easy as looking to nature as our guide. I often reflect on the quote from Lao Tzu, “Nature does not hurry yet everything is accomplished.” Caregivers of Mother Earth dreams of a world where communities value time spent in nature, allowing children to discover a world of wonderment! Nature created everything with its own purpose. Scientists now show we are connected in a web of life. Showing reverence for all life forms is critical as we raise our consciousness to higher levels.

We now realize our dependency on nature for our needs, yet many still act as if we are the ones whom nature relies upon. It’s time to awaken and show reverence for all life. Outdoor classrooms are gaining popularity as parents realize the need for their children to form a deep understanding and connection to the natural world through imagination and exploration. Creative thinking is ignited while playing outdoors. Many benefits accrue, including self- confidence and independence.

Children who experience the wonders of nature form memories that last a lifetime. Our hope is that future choices will be made that consider our impact on the environment.Small changes can reap large rewards. In the book by Doug Tallamy, Nature’s Best Hope,outlines simple changes that when collectively implemented can go a long way to reversing the trends causing species loss. Some of his changes include, adding native plants to your landscape, reducing lawns by creating pollinator gardens, and switching out white LED outside lighting for yellow LED bulbs!