Back to Our Roots
Week of December 5 – 11, 2021
by Meghan Morral, Environmental Education Intern
As the days get shorter and the snow starts to fall, I’ve found myself spending more time inside connecting with the people who are really important in my life. The holiday season allows me to grow closer to those around me as I enjoy some much needed family time. Often, the holidays also bring up family traditions that remind me of ‘my roots’. The deep sense of connection and belonging that the holidays bring seems to be intricately connected to traditions and holiday rituals.
In some ways, nature is ‘the roots’ that bind us all together. The belonging and connection found through family time is paralleled by time spent outside. Nature even carries its own traditions. Much like families carry out specific activities or cook special foods at the same time every year, there is always snow in the winter and barren trees painting the landscape here. The winter solstice will always be the shortest day of the year, and local wildlife will always have to find a cozy spot to hunker down. Even though the days are shorter and colder, I still find peace, clarity and connection to the Earth whenever I get the chance to spend some time outside. As we take in the excitement and connection that comes with this holiday season, let’s also make time to find peace in nature.