Lesson #16: Pathway of Finding Our Place in Nature

Introduction

The Pathway of Finding Our Place in Nature is the sixteenth pathway.

“Nature is the source of all true knowledge.” — Leonardo da Vinci
The Pathway of Nature helps us see the grander picture of who we are and our place on this beautiful planet – Mother Earth. We are not separate from the natural world. We are a part of it. We are one of 8.7 million species on Earth and certainly not one of the oldest.

“We are all part of nature, and nature is part of us.” – Unknown

Our bodies are made from the five elements that make up all other beings on Earth: fire, water, air, earth, and spirit. Humans are just a different expression of Creation. We are part of the Divine Plan, not the whole of the Divine Plan. We are one step in the Evolution of Life.

“The earth does not belong to us; we belong to the earth.” – Chief Seattle

Since we are part of the Evolution of Life, we are to support and respect all of the other parts of Nature. Some believe that we began our eternal life as that first life-form of Creation and are evolving to higher life-forms on our journey back to the Divine. Perhaps our next form will be a more spiritual form.

Recognizing our place in Nature to respect, honor, and support all forms of life is one of the most important responsibilities of being human. We are related to everything in Nature because we are part of Nature. We can also look to the other parts of Nature to teach us about life.

Prayer for Finding Our Place in Nature

O Sacred Spirit of All Life and Creation, may my heart and mind be open to the Wisdom of my Sacred Soul. May I learn to listen and know this precious Wisdom. May I express this sacred Wisdom into the world in my every thought, word, and deed. May my life’s purpose be my Soul’s purpose to bring Love, Compassion, and Kindness into all of Creation. I am so grateful that my Soul is a part of my life. And so, it is. Pau.

Affirmation for Finding My Place

Today I stand with all my brothers and sisters of Nature basking in the sacred Light of the Sun, and I remember we are all a part of Creation.

Meditation: The Moment of Oneness

Sit quietly outdoors in Nature. Breathe in peace and serenity. Feel yourself melding with your surroundings as you become one with all that is here in this place. This is a sacred moment of Oneness. Stay in this Oneness for as long as you want, then take a deep breath and return to the present moment. Remember this Oneness of Nature all through your day.

Spiritual Practices

Week 1 - Finding Our Place in Nature: Nature Bathing. Take the opportunity to be out in Nature. If you cannot physically go outdoors, go to your favorite place in Nature in your imagination. Relax and just be. Let Nature fill all your senses and breathe in the natural world. Breathe out all your worries and cares. Enjoy. Take a Nature Bath often to bring you back into harmony and balance.

Week 2 - Finding Our Place in Nature: Affirming You Are Part of Nature. Take a nature walk. As you walk, notice all the parts of nature around you. If possible, reach out and touch a plant, a tree, a rock, an animal. Say to that part of nature and to yourself: “I am a part of you, and you are a part of me. Thank you for teaching me.”

Week 3 - Finding Our Place in Nature: Being Responsible. How can you help Nature to thrive and grow? Be aware this week of what you can do. Give to an animal rescue fund. Volunteer at your local pet shelter or give supplies to help the animals. Pick up trash. Use less water and energy. Walk instead of driving and enjoy Nature along the way. Be grateful that you can help.

Week 4 - Finding Our Place in Nature: Gratitude for Eggs. Most of Life begins as an egg. Eggs are a symbol of renewal. For Easter this year, try dying your eggs using natural plants. The colors will be subtle and beautiful. Be grateful for the colors of Nature that bring joy to your heart. Share an Egg with a friend in the spirit of renewal and rebirth.

Extra Spiritual Practice - Earth Day. On Earth Day, April 22, join with members of your community to celebrate by cleaning up natural habitats, making your own yard beautiful, plant seeds or plant a tree. Engage your family and celebrate our Mother the Earth and be grateful to be a part of her life.