Nature is not 'over there', it's right in front of us

As the famous American song of the 1950s says, "Little things mean a lot." To me, this phrase is becoming less and less of a cliche as I get older and increasingly realize that the "little" things in life are often the most valuable, and are the things that should actually be treasured and safeguarded the most.

One of these "little things" is nature. We need to appreciate more that "nature" itself is not an abstract concept, it's not something that you do or enjoy somewhere else that's removed from your daily life. Most of us, even in sprawling urban metropolises, can find at least a little slice of nature to enjoy and remind us of our more intrinsic connection as human beings with the rest of life on this planet.

A lot of work is done in many urban areas to bring us at least a little connection with nature, by means of parks, trees planted along our roads or decorative floral displays. The efforts to bring this beauty to us are a result of the labors of people working in conditions that many among the rest of us would find difficult to accept. As outdoor workers, they do not enjoy the benefits of air conditioning or heating during their working hours.

There's a well-tended garden in the compound of my workplace. I have to admit that most days it's nothing more than a blur as I rush past on my way to the office. What have I been missing for all that time? A few days ago, I realized this and decided just to go there and literally take time to enjoy it. The garden with its many brightly colored roses still in bloom in November is not only a feast for the eyes, it's also a credit to the hardworking staff who carefully look after it.

Another "little thing" that means a lot to me is my little balcony garden, which I introduced to you in a previous column. It's such a delight to enjoy this little bit of nature in my own home, which I raised from seeds and is now bringing me plenty of lovely peppers and tomatoes. That's not only something that's enjoyable, but also very practical.

These days, many of us are finding our lives to be a bit more limited than they normally are. What you may regularly "enjoy "may not be accessible at the moment, be it a trip to a bar, a meal at your favorite restaurant or visiting with some friends.

If that is the case, maybe it's time to start focusing more on the "little things" in life that you normally either take for granted or do not even notice at all.