The sounds of nature

 I sit here in my 12 foot van creating our new blog spot as the children sleep. The sound of silence is serene. It has been raining for the past two days, and on and off for days beforehand. Previously feeling frustrated that I cannot wash and that is has cost me $20 to wash and put three loads of clothes through the dryer, I wonder what my stress is all about. We are dry, healthy and warm. What do I really have to complain about when to some my van would be heaven. After all I do this by choice.

  I sit and I listen in the silence. The pitter patter of the rain on the metal van is soothing music to my ears. The wind howls occassionly giving me a reminder of its presence and changing the rhythm of the rain ever so lightly. I walk to the amenities with the soft freshness of the rain tapping me on the shoulder reminding me of the blessing of it in our lives as a much needed resource. As I sit here I visualise and remember the squeals of delight as little Celeste runs in the rain, splashing in the puddles full of innocence and life. How she is delighted to discover the mushrooms that spring up every so often in the lawns.How she caresses and talks to the snails who we greet as they cross our path. I think of the magpies that greet me every morning as I open my van door. They stand at the door, look inside and chortle a beautiful tune as I thank them for their blessing and visit  Undisturbed by the dog, who also sits quietly and listens, they grab their morning takings of dry dog food and off they go. I believe we truly communicate and that this is the true bonding and unity of nature and man.

  This is life. This is really what living is all about. About being, seeing and experiencing. About being aware of what is around us and thankful for every moment we are given. About enjoying 'us' for who we are and the contribution we make to this world, but most of all being aware that this world relies on us to make the right choices. Nature is our mother, we need to show it respect. Without it we would not live. It nurtures and bonds with us as it provides us with the ability to survive. We must love it unconditionally and thank it for all it gives.

  Tread lightly through this life aware of all around you Make choices wisely, considering the long term effect on our mother. She is all we have.