WINSTON WEEKLY©[1]

November 2, 2025

Vol. 3, No. 44

REFLECTIONS[2]

November is a wonderful time for reflections. In addition to Veteran’s Day and Thanksgiving, much of America can be seen in a different light. Instead of trees covered in leaves, many lay bare. Others become shelter for critters seeking cover from the cold. As walks become eerily unfamiliar when branches break and leaves crumble, there is comfort in layers and observing nature through a different light.

For all the noise in the world, nature enhances self-awareness. Nova Lundgren wrote: “Nature has a way of putting things into perspective, of reminding us of our place in the grand scheme of things. It’s easy to feel small and insignificant in the face of towering mountains and endless skies, but it’s also incredibly liberating.”

Even in areas without mountains or hills, nature’s landscape provides purpose. Philosopher Friedrich Nietsche said, “All truly great thoughts are conceived while walking.”’ With ninety percent of Americans on-line every day and most individuals ages 18-29 constantly on-line, it is no wonder people feel less connected and more anxious. As Jonathon Haidt highlights in his book, The Anxious Generation, play-based activities matter. And what better way to play than to be outdoors?

If you are fortunate to be near bodies of water such as lakes, rivers or marshes, you may see eagles soar, or an abundance of crayfish. Sometimes referred to as “blue spaces,” water creates a sense of awareness and calm.

THIS WEEK’S ACTIVITY

Start a nature journal. Whether you like to write or draw or both, your senses will be enhanced. If you are not sure where to start, check out Claire Walker Leslie’s book, Drawn to Nature. Published more than 20 years ago, it includes more than two decades of the author’s journals of her observations of the natural world. For children, Kim Andrews’ book, Exploring Nature: Journal for Kids, includes plenty of prompts and blank pages for thoughts and sketches.

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[1] A Sunday newsletter and blog by Alysen Bayles to be shared with the appropriate attribute.

[2]Resources: Nova Lundgren, The Healing Power of the Great Outdoors: A Personal Reflection, Medium, Mar. 20, 2024; Rosa Gelles-Watnick, American’s Use of Mobile Technology and Home Broadband, Pew Research Center, www.pewresearch.org; Craig McDougall, Nick Hanley, Richard S. Quillam, David M. Oliver, Blue space exposure, health and well-being: Does freshwater type matter?, ScienceDirect, Vol. 224, Aug. 2022.