My Favourite time of year…
One of the reasons that this is my favourite time of the year is the new life bursting into being all around us. Whether it’s the perennial garden plants, long in hibernation, slowly starting to green as new shoots emerge from the ground; or the new born lambs slowly finding their feet in this strange new world.
I always believe that it is this connection with nature that can help us feel more grounded, especially when life is perhaps more difficult than usual.
This morning I was told of a fantastic website that brings together live streams of the natural world. Sitting in your armchair you can watch a whole host of animals from across the world, including elephants at the Tembe Elephant Park in South Africa; brown bears on the Naknek River in Alaska; a Tropical Reef Aquarium in California, and even gorillas at the GRACE Centre in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. With over 93 live streams, and plenty of pre-recorded videos, there’s an incredible array or wildlife to watch. Take a look at the explore website for more information.
Of course, living where we do there’s a fair bit of the natural world to see straight from our living room windows, without the need for technology. It is, however, a reminder of just how connected we can be across this world. I hope it helps remind us that whilst we may at times feel isolated and lonely, and many of us find ourselves alone at this time, we are still part of something much bigger. Lives can be changed by a simple attempt at contact. Whether that is by picking up the telephone, sending a letter, or taking part in a video call, do try and reach out. Be the friendly face, the soothing voice, the laughing smile, and make those connections.
This is our community, and we’re in this together.
Now, excuse me but I’m off to watch some kittens playing together in a rescue centre in California…