The power of place in sanctuaries of the spirit in Daydreaming on the Porch

Let there be intervals when we shall do nothing, think nothing, plan nothing, but just lay ourselves on the green lap of nature and “rest awhile.

From Streams in the Desert

Two days ago. The afternoon of Christmas Eve 2021. I drove out to the state park, 400 acres of salt marsh, tidal creeks, maritime forests, gardens full of blooming camellias, ancient, moss-draped live oak and tall pines, all there waiting to help dispel the gloom that had been settling over me this holiday season.

This sanctuary in the middle of a bustling city is quiet and far removed from the world around it, which is full of traffic and sirens and busy people hurrying to and fro. This is my escape from it all, 15 minutes from where I live, and on that afternoon, an hour before closing, I encountered only a couple of other people besides myself. Quiet. Christmas Eve. A bench to rest on awhile under live oaks, facing the marsh and tidal creek, where in the far distance I could see the city, its colleges, hospital complexes, tall bridge over the river that leads directly to the nearby sea.

It was about 65 degrees with a cool breeze off the marsh. I breathed in fresh sea air. I felt calm and cleansed as late afternoon sunlight and shadows accompanied me during the conclusion of my walk.

As always after this experience, I felt like a different person. Time temporarily lost itself in quietude and the subtle, yet intricate beauty of this magical place. I relaxed completely. I observed every little detail I could, just as I have so many times before at that exact spot over the years.

It is as near and dear to my heart, and as familiar a place as I could ever know in this life. It’s very being and presence are why I feel so unalterably attached to this singular location, this dot on the map, which is where I can experience the mystery and grandeur of Nature, hidden in plain sight.

I have been privileged over a lifetime to be able to keenly know about and appreciate these gifts and truths, discovered in Nature, as I observe, gaze in wonder at things that pop out on the forest floor, and see patterns, shapes, colors — little things I can’t ignore. Blue skies, clouds, sunlight. All of this comes to me, and I am aware of my true home. For a brief, blessed interval of real time, I let my troubles dissolve into nothingness, and I am one with my surroundings.

Behind every shadow there is always the sun.

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Look closely at what Nature reveals
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Last updated December 26, 2021