Happiness is…the miracle of nature!

During my childhood (and even now), I had many phobias – animals, water, fire! I visibly struggled in natural surroundings. I could not understand the reasons behind these phobias, especially, since I had no memory of any traumatic event that could explain these.

All I know is that since it caused me panic and palpitations sometimes, I had developed coping mechanisms to circumvent these situations; basically, I would avoid going out too often unless, required to, especially people’s homes with pets (I would check beforehand about this!). I preferred being at home. I only went to select routine places, that I had no choice about, or that I felt safe at.

Animal lovers that would come to know of this, would sometimes, be understanding, but, sometimes, didn’t take it too well.

The strange part is, I have always loved nature, animals, birds, fishes (especially, dogs, horses, deers, rabbits, squirrels, sparrows, eagles and other raptors, ants, butterflies, dragonflies, dolphins, penguins, whales, and many others), but, I was not able to control the panic, in the actual real world situation. I would freeze; I would feel my heart pumping like a drum. I would automatically avoid outings, vacations, outdoor trips. I felt safe only at home.

But, I have always felt a deep respect for nature and the environment, and a sort of protectiveness towards it, as though we are guardians meant to protect and preserve it! It probably stems from my Dad, who always instilled in us these thoughts towards nature.

Since last year, I have experienced a little shift in this regard. My panic, though not completely resolved, seems much better. Hopefully, someday, with consistent effort and engagement with nature, I will be able to bridge the gap, and be ok in natural surroundings.

I love people who are, in their own way, caring and nurturing towards nature, taking care of injured and sick animals, even those that train pets, those that grow plants, and take good care of these. Plants can be really sensitive and delicate, and would need good care.

I love people who are doing their bit towards saving the environment, who are concerned about global climate change, those who are mindful of their use of paper, and water, especially.

Today, on Oct. 4, the world celebrates World Animal Welfare Day, in an effort to raise awareness toward animal welfare standards around the world. It is also celebrated as the feast of Saint Francis of Assisi, the patron Saint of animals and nature. He embodied awe, respect, and kindness towards nature, in all its forms.

I am reminded of two people, whom I have witnessed showing such kindness towards nature...

...my Dad - He was such a gentle, caring, loving soul. He loved nature! His connect with nature, and respect for it, was absolutely inspirational to watch. Animals gravitated towards him, plants grew beautifully and effortlessly with him. It was as though they recognised the love in him.

...a friend - I once saw him gently clean a dog's eye, because he sensed something was bothering it. And every time he found even the tiniest of insects, he would gently carry it in his palm, and place it somewhere else safely.

Such beautiful acts of kindness! Perhaps, given my phobia, I may not be able to do similar things, even though my heart would want to. But, I would like to appreciate, applaud, and encourage those that do.

And if you are one sure kind person, know that your love and kindness has surely touched and healed the environment.

SoulNotes to Self: Happiness is…the miracle of Nature!

Being in nature is probably the best way to get in touch with our inner self, as well as with divinity!

I would like for me and my Sam, to be a champion for nature and the environment, in whatever way we possibly can.

I will do my best to encourage him to be respectful, mindful, and kind towards nature.

I would love for him to be more at ease with nature, than I have been.

I suppose and I'm hoping, we can heal and explore this aspect of our life, together!

Love, from my soul to yours!

Soulful

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Prayer of St. Francis

Make me a channel of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me bring your love. Where there is injury, your pardon, Lord, And where there's doubt, true faith in you. Make me a channel of your peace. Where there's despair in life, let me bring hope. Where there is darkness, only light, And where there's sadness, ever joy. Oh, Master, grant that I may never seek So much to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand. To be loved as to love with all my soul. Make me a channel of your peace. It is in pardoning that we are pardoned, in giving of ourselves that we receive, and in dying that we're born to eternal life.