Is it just my imagination, or does the world really seem to be going crazy lately? So much fighting, not only on war fronts, but also amongst the people of the world. I can’t remember a time when there was such a widespread sense of division and attention-seeking through erratic behaviour. This isn’t going to be a gripe session about what’s going on in the world, but rather an antidote to counteract the negativity so prevalent on social media and in mainstream media.
In my previous blog I discussed the importance of spending time in nature to live in the present moment. I’m increasingly convinced that this connection with nature is crucial to discovering our authentic selves. Our society feels artificial, and the mainstream media often seems out of touch with the reality of ordinary people, feeding us misleading information that we (and especially the youth) eagerly consume.
Recently, I found myself spending an entire day at the mall while my car was being repaired – a situation I usually avoid as a nature lover. It felt like my own version of hell!! However, I did manage to find a seat in the middle of the mall and observed the passing crowd, each person focussed on their own purposes. It was a real eye opener.
On each side of me were shops with stunning window displays, showcasing the latest fashions and glamorous trends – mannikins wearing beautiful outfits, pictures of perfectly styled hair outside salons, and more. Despite these glamorous displays and societal ideals, what struck me during my two hour observation was the reality : most people were simply dressed in ordinary comfortable clothes like shorts, jeans and t-shirts. They wore practical shoes for walking, regardless of their appearance. The majority were just everyday shoppers – regular individuals, far from the polished images promoted by media and advertising.
I couldn’t help but wonder how many young people grapple with insecurity because they don’t match these unrealistic standards of appearance or possess the latest gadgets. How many individuals only see the filtered, positive aspects of life on social media, unaware of the hidden struggles and discrepancies from reality?
It dawned on me how liberating it is to step away from societal pressures and immerse oneself in nature. Here, you can be your authentic self, free from the constant comparison and scrutiny of appearances. Nature is inherently accepting, offering a marvellous spectacle regardless of your external appearance. Flowers bloom, trees breathe out oxygen, and animals simply exist in their natural state – offering a glimpse into their unique worlds.
In nature, you can live fully in the present moment, experiencing acceptance and love while connecting with the universal consciousness. There’s no need to conform to external expectations or comparisons. You are enough just as you are.
Food for thought.
P.S. All photos taken in the beautiful Grootvaderbos Nature Reserve in South Africa.
Recent Comments