“…imagine a different relationship, in which people and land are good medicine for each other.”
— Robin Wall Kimmerer
The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago, the second best time is today.
Long Lasting Impact
Planting trees is a simple yet powerful action with lasting benefits that can outlive us all. Whether you're planting to support local biodiversity, add beauty to your yard, or reduce stress, it’s an invaluable way to spend your time. With so many tree species to choose from, selecting the right one can be both an enjoyable and rewarding experience. As your tree grows, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment knowing you’ve made a lasting contribution to your environment.
Noticing Nature’s Voices
In the presence of wildlife, we find the opportunity not just to observe, but to connect.
Humans have a unique ability to connect with wildlife. For some, it’s not until they encounter something as awe-inspiring as a grizzly bear on a hike that they truly feel the presence of wildlife. But what if you could connect with creatures as small as a chipmunk in your own backyard and still experience that same sense of wonder? A bond that reminds us of our place in the natural world.
Allegiance to Gratitude
“Recognizing abundance rather than scarcity undermines an economy that thrives by creating unmet desires” — Robin Wall Kimmerer
One of the most inspiring books for understanding our relationship with nature is Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer. Through a series of eloquent stories that are drawn from her own experiences, the wisdom of Indigenous elders, and the plants she studies, Kimmerer explores the deep connections between people and the natural world. A powerful message in the book is of the Thanksgiving Address from the Onondaga people, which embodies a profound gratitude for all aspects of nature. This is a perspective too often lost in today’s culture. As Kimmerer writes, “While expressing gratitude seems innocent enough, it is a revolutionary idea. In a consumer society, contentment is a radical proposition… Gratitude cultivates an ethic of fullness, but the economy needs emptiness. The Thanksgiving Address reminds you that you already have everything you need.” To experience this perspective fully, we highly recommend picking up a copy of Braiding Sweetgrass.
Zero Waste Frame of Mind
In the consumer-driven world we live in, it’s easy to get caught up in the constant desire for more. We’re bombarded with advertisements at all hours, and it’s up to us to decide what’s truly necessary. By shifting our perspective on how we interact with the world, even small intentional actions can add up to meaningful change. Whether the goal is to live a healthier life or to support a local ecosystem, adopting a zero-waste mindset has countless benefits.
