Purpose

This weblog is dedicated to Nature and Spirituality, particularly, and but not exclusively, in the Roman Catholic and Daoist traditions, and in the tradition of the great Apache shaman "Grandfather" Stalking Wolf.

I use the word “Nature” deliberately, instead of "ecology" or "environment." “Ecology" has different meanings in the U.S.A. and Canada, and in popular versus academic circles. "Environment" has political and activist connotations, and while I wholeheartedly support environmental activism, that is not the purpose of this weblog. The term "Nature," with a capital "N," refers to something that is universally understood but hard to define. It connotes beauty, peace, inspiration, freedom, purity, goodness and most especially, those living beings, elements, and landscapes that have not been created by humanity.

Included in my definition of Nature would be humanity, which everyone will at least agree did not create itself. It may seem absurd to include those beings that as a group have done and continue to do unspeakable violence to Nature. As a child I was haunted by the idea that maybe it was not possible for humans to live without harming Nature. That was until I started reading the books of Tom Brown Jr. From his books I learned that it was not only possible but indeed preferable (in terms of personal fulfilment, health, and enjoyment) for humans to live in close communion and harmony with Nature, and that a spiritual connection with Nature and with the Creator is the foundation for living at peace with Nature and with ourselves. My goal here is to share that awareness with you.

I do not claim to be an expert in these matters; in fact I would say that I have barely scratched the surface. I only hope that by sharing my journey of exploration I will inspire others to explore as well. Readers can expect weekly updates with links, reviews, and personal observations. I also invite readers to submit relevant commentaries and links.

May this weblog be a blessing to all who encounter it.

I ask Saint Francis of Assisi for his guidance, inspiration, protection, and blessing for this endeavour.