“I trance through, my feet sinking into the earth… I hear the sounds of trees whispering “let’s rest”… Nature never hurries, so why should I? The leaves hang with serene timing, held by the final thread that eventually let’s loose; serving the earth it’s greatest gift. That which is already instilled in the air we breathe, and the plants that sprout. Let me change, let me dance, let me come home to myself. Let me feel the mud on my shoes, knowing that I took something with me. A fragment of this earth, stuck to me. This earth, this earth… I thank you for the greatest gift of just being here.”
As I enter Centennial Woods, I take out my earbuds and listen. I pay attention to the creaking of trees and the conversations between crows. Every time I enter this natural area, I feel peace. I welcome my passion for spiritual connection with nature and just breathe. I breathe the bitter, yet calming aroma of crunchy leaves.
The foliage is painted with brittle leaves from American beech, birch, and striped maple trees. The leaves that remain hang with their final will. The dark presence still remains, yet the forest welcomes a sense of stillness. The beginning of December is similar to November, but seems to inhabit acceptance of hibernation and rest.
Green still paints the forest floor, framing the understory with decaying matter, springy moss, and a touch of persistent, loyal ferns.
Nearly one month ago I sat in this spot, meditating and allowing my creativity to flourish. As I observed changes in this area, I found that decomposing matter appeared on the stream banks and I looked up at the mature hardwood trees, with eastern white pine trees standing tall.
As I was observing the overstory, I heard rustling between branches. I noticed two bird nests. I didn’t notice any birds present, which made me think that the beginning of migration has begun. Compared to my first visit, which had hyper chipmunks and graceful squirrels, I didn’t notice much animal activity.
This special phenology spot was a bridge to my spiritual connection present in nature and allowed me to explore my writing. I enjoyed being able to go back to the same spot and reflect on the person I was last time I visited. This spot is peaceful, welcoming, and I was able to truthfully observe the seasonal changes. From the first week of college to the last day of my first semester, I am thankful to have a spot to find some peace and solace for my sensitive soul. I really enjoyed the stream because it was simply so relaxing to listen to. I hope to further expand not only the connection I have with our earth, but also the metaphysical ties that I have with the trees, leaves, and calm voices of nature.
