Nature Gratitude

Giving thanks is one of the Core Routines for nature awareness practiced by the Wilderness Awareness School.  After attending their Coyote Mentoring program for educators, I added Nature Gratitude to our class meetings.  It pushes me to notice and savor those moments when nature offers us something delightful. 

Every weekday, as I'm heading to the parking lot, I pass under this sweet Mourning Dove pair.  Seeing them makes me smile to myself, breathe more deeply, and let go of some of the weary that sometimes hovers around me at the end of the day.  I'm honored they trust us enough to choose such an exposed spot for their nest.

There's a book for that!
Giving Thanks: A Native American Good Morning Message by Chief Jake Swamp
Coyote's Guide to Connecting with Nature