I love October – a month filled with change and awe-inspiring beauty.
The trees begin their annual ritual of letting go and transforming into bright reds and yellows. What would happen if a tree refused to change and let go of its leaves?
What happens if we are afraid to change and let go? Can that fear make our lives less rich and vibrant?
The changing leaves can serve as a reminder to open our eyes to see the beauty in change. To develop a sense of awe for all the beauty – large or small, in nature or in people – that surrounds us.
Recently, I visited the Roger Tory Peterson Institution in Jamestown, New York. The Institution is dedicated to highlighting the work of Roger Tory Peterson – the naturalist and illustrator.
Beginning at an early age, Peterson became awe-struck by the natural world that surrounded him. His classmates teased and made fun of him. They thought his love for nature and his passion to illustrate it very odd. But caring adults – his mother and 7th grade teacher – encouraged him to continue to develop his passion, gifts, and talents. Thank goodness they did.
His awe for nature became contagious. Today, Peterson is considered the father of the modern field guide. His illustrated guides are used by millions of people around the world.
For Peterson, birds symbolize freedom. He said, “I came to believe that birds are the most vivid expression of life. It made me aware of the world in which we live.”
I primarily went to the Institution to see an exhibit about Amy Tan’s new book, The Backyard Bird Chronicles. Her
illustrated observations show her delight in the variety of birds, their behaviors, and their interactions. The wit she uses in giving her birds personalities made me laugh out loud.
“Amy Tan’s bird journals can change the way you see the world. They show that stories, mysteries, humor, and beauty are all around us if we take the time to pay attention. These journals invite us to look out of our own windows with fresh eyes and wonder.” – John Muir Laws, author of The Laws Guide to Drawing Birds
We do live in a beautiful, awe-inspiring world. We just need to take time to pause, discover, appreciate, and be grateful for it.
Ryan Blair advises us to “create experiences that leave you in awe, for these will be the highlights of your life.”
Stop in at the Andover Public Library. Find the books and other resources that can increase your own sense of awe and wonder. Check out a nature guide, or a beautifully illustrated children’s book. Relish a well-turned phrase in one of your favorite books. Playing a new card game and laugh with yet-to-be-discovered new friends.
Promise yourself to enjoy the changing beauty that this season of change has to offer. And as always, thanks for your on-going support and encouragement.
Sincerely,
Nancy Logan, Director
The backyard bird chronicles by Amy Tan
Peterson field guide to birds of eastern and central North America by Peterson, Roger Tory