I had the opportunity to go to the Grassroots Gathering of the Children and Nature Network in San Diego last week. I met really inspiring people running amazing programs- and gathering together in coalitions - all across the U.S. It got my head spinning about where I fit into the whole children and nature movement -- as an individual. My thinking took me back to some of the quotes I've photographed over the last few years.
It says: "I wonder if anyone else has an ear so tuned and sharpened as I have to detect the music, not of spheres, but of earth, subtleties of major and minor chord that the wind strikes upon the tree branches. Have you ever heard the earth breathe?" One of the Natural Leaders at the gathering spoke of his joy at hearing the wind in the trees and I thought about how much I love that sound, too. We were sitting across the table from each other and worlds apart in life experiences, but when he talked about that sound I nodded my head and knew exactly what he meant. We connected.
There was a lot of talk about storytelling. Nonprofits seeking funders need to tell a story. The stories I heard were very touching and inspirational. I did a lot of listening over the two and a half days. I like to write, but I think I like to listen and observe more. Everybody has a story. I'm still letting it all sink in.
It says: "Those who traveled before you connected with this land in varied ways. What relationship will you forge with this land?" Connections and relationships are the key to any movement. I deepened friendships with people I already know and connected with new friends on the same mission to promote play in nature.
First we need to protect the places where we go to "be" in nature. Ruth Coleman, Director of California State Parks, was a keynote speaker. What do we do when the parks close? When there's no more nature to go to for refuge? I think we need to get mad and take action. We need to protect these natural places that have already proved their value and been set aside for generations to come! Why must they have to prove their value over and over again?
You've probably seen this one before. This is the quote that really comes to mind at the end of the day.
"Never doubt."
"Thoughtful, committed citizens."
Are you with me?
