Nature Canada

Joy to the World…Of Nature

Jodi and Noah

By Jodi Joy
Director of Development

“Unforgettable, magical, a blessing, memorable, precious”

And how do you define nature and the many joys it brings to us individually? I was so fortunate to read the wonderful stories shared by members when we asked about their favourite times in nature last month. These words came up again and again through all the inspirational stories. They reflect how important nature is to us all.

It’s heartwarming that you and your fellow members care deeply about wildlife and wilderness. Thank you for your kindness, compassion and commitment to nature this past year. Your generous support has helped tremendously to defend the animals, plants, clean air and water that we depend on.

Perhaps the following will inspires you too:

  • Time in nature clears my mind, relaxes me, and turns a frown into a smile;
  • Nature is my passion, I can’t count how many special moments I’ve had. Whether seeing a wolf in the National Park or the birds at my backyard feeder;
  • I love seeing my small daughters find their own “celebrate nature” moments. Watching them get excited about seeing birds and animals gives me hope for the future; and
  • Watching the birds brings me great joy. Just to wake up hearing the songbirds makes my day brighter.

Here’s three favourites to share with you today that speak to the POWER of nature to unite us:

My favourite nature memory is my successful climb to the top of the Nokomis Trail in Lake Superior Provincial Park. The view of Old Woman Bay that you see at the top of the climb is your reward.  It is awe inspiring.  The reason it is so memorable is also because I was only able to complete the hike because my daughter believed I could do it, even when I doubted myself.  She kept reaching out her hand to help me over the difficult spots.  You see, I have developed medical issues over the past few years and must now wear braces on both my legs.  The hike was difficult for me, especially in the steeper, rocky points.  But my daughter’s hand would automatically reach out to help me up.  It was a reversal of roles. The child was now guiding the mother. It is a cherished memory indeed.” – Frances Ann, Member for 15 years

picture of canadian landscape with windswept tree on boreal shield

Windswept tree photo by Darlene Munro

“I was the first born in my family, and although I think my father would have liked a son first he got a daughter, me.  He still passed his love of nature on to me. I remember early Sunday mornings in the winter walking up the Hill and into the Forest stepping in his big footprints in the snow and he’d show me where the Big Owl rested.  Unfortunately Father died early in life in the War.  When I am in Wilderness or just in the Garden I appreciate what my Father taught me – his Love of Nature.” – Katharina, 10 year Member

Image of a Pygmy Owl on a branck

Pygmy Owl in Winter, photo by Tim Hopwood

“Here in the Retirement community where I live, we are blessed with beautiful park like grounds where we can walk under lovely old trees and sit in their shade and breathe in their healing energy. I can no longer walk in the woods in all seasons as I did for so many years but feeling close to nature is still very important to me – it adds so much to the joy of life.  Thank you Nature Canada for all you do to conserve and protect our natural heritage.”  Frances, Member for 20+ Years

Image of a Baltimore Oriole on flowering tree branch

Baltimore Oriole, photo by Hussain Chirathodi

As we look forward to the start of 2016 — a big THANK YOU to all of our members who stand alongside us to be a strong voice for nature. You and I can be thankful for the gifts and blessings of this special planet. Season’s Greetings and Happy New Year!

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