Now I think I know the answer; it’s simple really, you know? I think. . . well, I think we’re all here just to be good to one another. Just that.

This is a passage from the end of my fiction book for young adult readers, which tells a complex story spanning over hundreds of years about an enchanted river, its heroes (both human and animal), and our intrinsic connection to Nature.

From my very earliest memories, I have had a love affair with Nature. I have stayed in touch with that love and know that there is a deep benefit that comes from an ongoing relationship with Nature.

I tap into this love every day in my work as a poet, an artist, a writer, a therapist, mother of two sons, and a teacher of creativity. I am such an advocate of the importance of encouraging our children to have a relationship with nature because I attribute much of my strength and creativity to that connection.

The best way to share this love with our children, beginning at the earliest of ages, is by modeling it OURSELVES. By connecting with the simplicity and authenticity of our natural surroundings, we instinctively slow to a more natural and saner rhythm or pace and begin to see the emergence of our own authentic, creative, and true nature – to be more open.

As this opening occurs, I like to say, our inner landscape becomes spectacular by transforming to reflect the beauty and wonder of the natural world. We also realize that, like our inner selves, nature is fragile and in need of care and love and respect.

And, like the great circle of life, one thing leads into another and back again. We are inspired and we inspire others to be good to each other. It is you and me, at our best. Like Robert W. Fuller, Ph.D. says, “Dignity is not negotiable.”

We are connected by that goodness and it is our greatest strength;

A river runs from you to me
This river runs for eternity
A silent promise never broken
Of true love, so sweetly spoken
A heart that beats for you and me
One pure heart for eternity
A world like ours is never broken
With my song, like wings, now open!

-Janine L. Kimmel

Published on Inspire Me Today August 9, 2013