Learn From Nature’s Wisdom
There are opportunities to learn all around us—but we're often too busy or too distracted to notice the life lessons right in front of us. If it’s been a while, I encourage you to carve out some time to linger in nature. That could mean stepping into your garden, visiting a local park, or heading out into the wilderness.
For me, nature is one of the few places where I can truly slow down and pay attention. Recently, I sat by the fire pit in my backyard, simply watching the flames. I let my mind wander, but gently brought it back to the fire again and again, wondering what it might have to teach me. Here are a few reflections from that quiet time:
1. There is power in transitions.
Just as a piece of wood is nearly consumed by flame, it begins to glow with brilliant orange and yellow, flickering like breath. The embers, though small, give off intense heat—remnants of what once was, still radiating power. In the same way, when we go through mental, emotional, or physical transitions, we can discover unexpected strength. Though change often brings uncertainty and the loss of the familiar, it also holds potential—an invitation to transformation and the start of something new.
2. Life requires constant tending.
A fire is rarely “just right” for long. It’s often too hot or too cold, and I adjust my position to find comfort. But I don’t resent the work—it’s part of the experience. Yet in life, I often chase that elusive moment of perfect balance, expecting it to last. The truth is, life—like a fire—needs ongoing care and attention. We can either resist this truth or embrace it and find joy in the tending.
3. Some things are hard to start.
If you’ve ever tried to build a fire, you know the frustration of coaxing kindling into flame. It can feel like it’s working against you. Many aspects of life feel the same—starting a new career, building a relationship, saving for a dream, or pursuing a creative goal. Resistance is natural; it’s not a sign to quit but a challenge to work through.
People have been meditating by firelight for thousands of years. My insights weren’t new—but they were meaningful. Nature is always available to anyone who’s willing to listen.
There was wisdom available to me that evening, simply because I slowed down enough to notice it. I believe wisdom is all around us. We crave connection to something deeper, but we rarely engage with nature's slow, patient way of teaching.
So this week, I invite you to spend some unhurried time in nature. Don’t fill it with noise—turn off the music, the podcast, the audiobook. Let your body and mind simply be. Pay attention. You might be surprised by what wisdom shows up.
Happy to be in your corner,
Tom Page, LCPC
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