Accessing Nature

This week we have been discussing how nature provides a pathway for rest. When we pause and tune into the natural world, we find ourselves connecting to God, ourselves, and the needs of others. As we connect to the earth, we often experience healing, transcendence, and awe. It makes sense when Jesus says “don’t worry” he tells us to look at the birds, the lilies, and the grass (Matthew 6:26, 28, 30). Being present in God’s creation contributes greatly to our overall well-being a.k.a. we are happier and more purposeful people when we regularly spend time with nature. 

So, we know that nature is good for us. But how do we access it across our wide range of locations, weather, physical abilities, incomes, identities, etc? 

Nature belongs to everyone, but like many things in our society, nature has been colonized. Leaving many of us feeling like nature is for the “wealthy, able bodied, fit, heterosexual, white, cis- man.” There are barriers for many of us when it comes to accessing nature. But nature is good for all of us, and is for all of us. 

For some of you, you might be lamenting how inaccessible the natural world feels to you. If that is you, God is with you in your pain and frustration. Breathe. Would you lament how distant Earth feels and ask God to comfort you and help you reimagine accessing Creation. Maybe the next step might look like: noticing a house plant, watching the birds in your neighborhood, closing your eyes and imagining beautiful scenery, etc. Or maybe, try looking to folks with similar identities as you and see how they have broken through walls and reclaimed the outdoors. Whatever it may be—lament, yes, lament—and also nature is yours. You get to enjoy it too. Keep moving closer to Earth in whatever form you can. 

For others of you, you might have all of the access to the natural world. Ask God to help you not only incorporate being outside in nature more often but also help others with less access connect with God’s creation. Offer car rides, give a plant to someone, find a wheelchair accessible hiking trail, pick up trash at a local park, etc. What might it look like to not only tune into Earth but also tune into the needs of Neighbor? 

• Dottie Oleson