Wisdom from the Woods – Life Lesson Learned from Being Around Mother Nature

Picking a favorite season in West Virginia is like choosing a favorite child. I love each equally for different reasons. Spring is a definite Godsend though. It’s a season budding with beautiful beginnings. It reminds us that the soil of the land and the roots of our soul are spiritually connected. The ground doesn’t grumble as we prepare to plow her fertile fields. She willingly bears our seeds of sustenance and richly nourishes us once again. A resurrection arises within my soul with each reborn blossom. The reliable renewal of nature reassures me of the rewards waiting for me here and hereafter. Surely, my soul is as deserving of rebirth as a spring sprout. West Virginia in spring is as close to heaven as I’ll get on earth. Her beauty, meant to be appreciated from every angle, brings me perfect peace. West Virginia’s disarming disposition, at times, excites us. She flirts with fluctuating temperaments, from unexpectedly frosty to all of a sudden sunny. Whatever her mood, the sensual scenery surrounding us seduces our senses. Soothing serenades from resident songbirds, blissful breezes perfumed by lilacs, evocative scents of fresh cut lawns, peaceful ovations of rustling leaves along with perfectly painted pastel landscapes, make every spring experience a spectacular spa day. While we look forward to spending sunlit summer months frolicking in the mountains, valleys, lakes, and rivers of West Virginia with loved ones, spring reminds us just how blessed we are to call this piece of perfection home.

– Jim Shock, LBSPY 33 (May 20-June 3)