Nature’s Comfort

“The best remedy for those who are afraid, lonely or unhappy is to go outside, somewhere where they can be quite alone with the heavens, nature and God. Because only then does one feel that all is as it should be and that God wishes to see people happy, amidst the simple beauty of nature. As long as this exists, and it certainly always will, I know that then there will always be comfort for every sorrow, whatever the circumstances may be. And I firmly believe that nature brings solace in all troubles.”
― Anne Frank

Nature has always been my “happy place”.  For the past decade, I have spent most of my free time traveling to places near and far to experience and photograph nature.

During these unprecedented (in my geographic location and lifetime) times, I have continued to seek

nature for peace and comfort.  I have simply had to do this much closer to home.

My dog, Maui, has been my faithful travel companion on many of my exploration outings in the neighborhood.  We have been walking up to ten miles a day.  These trips are usually spaced throughout the day.

One morning I found a dandelion growing near home.  I decided to pick it and take it with us on our exploration, searching for appropriate backgrounds for it along the way.

The Living Memorial Garden, located in my neighborhood, is a place I visit each day.  There is so much beauty there and it is constantly changing.  I knew there was phlox growing  there.  I felt it would make the perfect background for my dandelion.

While in the garden, I was also drawn to one of the irises growing there as the light was showcasing it against its darker background.

Light and color on a Japanese maple tree provided another excellent background for my dandelion.  Since I had been walking with the dandelion for almost an hour, it was showing signs of wear by now.

In these times of stress and uncertainty, step outside and immerse yourself in the beauty and comfort found in nature!