What would you do if you woke up one morning and birds were no longer chirping beyond your windowsill? That can be a difficult question to answer, because so many of us have never thought of that possibility.
When we awake in the morning, maybe we'll hear a bird or two chirping, maybe we won't.
But when we do, we can't help but pay attention to their songs of joy.
Granted, if you're not an "early bird" per se, you may not be as fond of their chirps as I am.
I live out in the country, so I get to appreciate them every morning.
But maybe you live in the city, and aren't as fortunate to be surrounded by our beautiful wildlife.
So the thought that they could one day disappear, may have never crossed your mind.
Not only are our feathered friends becoming more and more endangered, but nature and wildlife in general are all at risk.
More frequently, one species or another are becoming either extinct or endangered, and nature itself is becoming less natural.
But, instead of discussing the ways in which we can reduce our carbon footprints and help preserve nature- recycle, reduce energy, join an organization, etc.
- I'm going to let you in on some fun (and cheap) things that you can do alone, or with family and friends, to enjoy and appreciate nature more.
1.
Plant a tree.
This can be fun to do with younger children, whom I'm sure love playing in the dirt already! They get to be messy (on purpose!) and learn biology at the same time, while replacing one of thousands of trees that we lose every year.
2.
Make a birdfeeder.
Another child-friendly project, but still just as enjoyable if done alone.
It can be as simple or complex as you want, just be creative and have fun! The birds will love you for it, and have one more thing to sing about every morning.
3.
Go on a nature walk.
There are a few nature parks that are untouched, or have little interference by human hands.
And most of them have trails that you can bike through or walk; a fun way to both enjoy wildlife, and burn off that extra piece of cheesecake you insisted on having last night after dinner! 4.
Picnic in the park.
Who said public parks are just for kids? During your lunch break at work, or on a nice afternoon weekend, take a walk to your local park and break out the food! Enjoy that chicken salad sandwich, and take in your surroundings.
Listen to the laughter of children, the birds chirping (you can't escape the birds), the squirrels scurrying about, and just enjoy the moment.
5.
Volunteer at a natural reserve.
This one is fun to do with friends who have no plans on a Sunday afternoon.
Call everyone up (yes, even the friend who's having relationship issues- it'll do her some good to get out of the house for awhile), find a natural reserve near to where you live, and see what you all can do to help out for a day.
Nature can be inspiring if you appreciate it.
So, go out and absorb your surroundings- the air you breathe, the scenery you see, the songs you hear- and let it inspire you.
I bet you'll begin to appreciate those morning wakeup calls a lot more if you do!