20. Little Tree

I recently finished the book The Education of Little Tree by Forrest Carter. It is about a little boy and the life lessons he learns from his Cherokee grandparents. The style is delightfully naive, but the book brings up all the important lessons of life. It deals with living and dying, morals, and where humans fit in the world, to mention some. This book also talks about nature and the connection humans have with nature. How we should treat it, how it speaks if you only listen, and how wonderful and magical it is.

This book joins in as one of the really good books that have changed my perception of nature, given me a new appreciation of life, and helped me put goodbyes and death into words. It is really magical when that happens. You go outside, and suddenly you feel like you can hear the trees talking, and you feel that everything about life has just become so much clearer. You see everything in a new light, and for a moment, you are not afraid of dying. This often gives you a beautiful peace inside. In this space of peace, you can live in the moment and rejoice in the life in you and around you, and feel how you are connected with the whole universe, and where you belong in the big picture.

The other books I have read recently that have taken me on such a journey and given me new insight are Nation by Terry Pratchett and Naked Liberty by Carolyn Resnick (which I am currently rereading). But my journey started earlier than these books. From I was a small child I have been drawn to tales of indigenous people and in general of people who live in harmony with nature. For me, who grew up in a town, living in and of nature seems like a magical thing. I love watching things grow, and maybe now more than ever, I am very curious about nature. How it works, how it is all interconnected, and just general childlike wonder and joy at nature's miracles.

These feelings are renewed and strengthened when I read books that describe them. Suddenly I have some words to relate my feelings to. I hope I can continue my journey towards having a real sense of joy just from being alive and seeing life all around me. I also hope that I might have inspired you to begin or continue on that journey yourself.

Books read: 18
Pages read: 4792