We are, by nature, contemplative. 

Contemplation is where we meet the silence and stillness of much of creation. Trees are our best teachers rooted firmly in their place in the earth. Without the nourishment of soil, no plant will grow and develop to its full potential. Much goes on inside trees, as much goes on inside us.

Contemplating helps us listen to our hearts, where God quietly speaks. Being quiet without being restless yields many rewards. Like trees we wait, and like trees we are called to be truly ourselves, not what others desire us to be. 

What we know is that the stiller we can be (interiorly and exteriorly) the more readily a bird, a butterfly or any insect or animal will feel drawn to say “hello” and deliver a message or two. Ancient Chinese sage, Lao Tzu, taught that the more still we are the more the world can come to us. 

So not only can we encounter wildlife but also the Spirit. Everything in creation flows as if on a river of grace and this river begins to flow when we step out alone into nature to pray.