“Nature is God’s living, visible garment.” “I love to think of nature as an unlimited broadcasting system through which God speaks to us every hour, if we only tune in.”  George Washington Carver

“Job, the righteous man who trusted God in suffering, wrote: “But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you;or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you. Which of all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this? In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind.” (Job 12:7-10)

The best remedy for those who are afraid, lonely, or unhappy is to go outside, somewhere where they can be quiet, 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

— Excerpts from opening reflections by Walt W.

Early into my walk this morning, I spotted a heart-shaped leaf yellowing on the ground.  I picked it up and could not help but notice:  two small holes hugged the center vein.  Like holes in the heart space, or like holes for eyes in a mask.  Striking, whatever the interpretation.

I shared the leaf finding at our after-walk reflection period.  One person asked: “What do we do with all these broken hearts [in the world]?”  We talked together about brokenness, our common vulnerability, how we choose to fill the holes of hearts and souls.  How some choose the stuff of masks; some choose the bearing of brokenness as a means to heal, inviting gratitude alongside.  I am keeping this leaf close to me now, reminding me to be aware of my choosing:  a covering-over or an opening through.

— Photos and reflection by Amy Webb, October 21, 2023

Although I was unable to WiW this week at Brookgreen, I am very grateful for the many amazing walks I had in Seattle while visiting my brother and his family. Truly blessed by wonder, beauty and family…

— Photos by Nancy L.