Nature’s Beauty

Perhaps we watch, observe, and marvel at plants, trees, and landscapes, and their ability to change, grow, and thrive because we, as human beings, have an innate need and instinctive longing to do the same to feel fulfilled? Are we in awe of nature’s beauty because we desperately hope to see that beauty reflected within ourselves? 

The countless layers of petals within an ornate flower could represent the many layers that make us who we are, what we are made of, what we think, and how we feel. All these layers intermingle and flow together to create a masterpiece. 

The incomprehensible size of a redwood tree may symbolize our longing to be firmly rooted, overpowering and dominating, so that even our darkest fears and most daunting experiences cannot overtake us. 

The awe-inspiring and mind-boggling depth of the grand canyon - its many rock layers, one on top of another, it’s jagged cliffs, smooth trails, and surging river at the bottom are all qualities one might not even notice if standing back from it. However, if we get up close, despite the fear that may give rise to, and look deep within, we can observe all its intricacies, beauty and wonderment and know that all those distinct qualities make up that one thing, a canyon.

Nature reflects our humanity: The complexity of it, the beauty of it, as well as the unforeseen dangers of it. If we look closely enough within ourselves, as we do at nature’s splendor, we can obtain a sense of belonging, a new found identity, and true self-awareness. It is then that we will see, each one of us is as beautiful as the most intricate flower, as powerful as the tallest redwood, and as vast at the grand canyon.