Our business in life is not to succeed, but to continue to fail in good spirits.
Robert Louis StevensonRead
It is not so much for its beauty that the forest makes a claim upon men's hearts, as for that subtle something, that quality of air that emanation from old trees, that so wonderfully changes and renews a weary spirit.
Interpretation
The forest captivates people not just because of its beauty, but due to the refreshing and renewing quality it offers to those who are weary.
This quote by Robert Louis Stevenson emphasizes that the forest has a profound impact on humanity, drawing us not solely due to its picturesque landscapes but for the unique atmosphere it creates. The 'subtle something' he mentions refers to the revitalizing energy derived from nature, which replenishes tired souls and offers solace and rejuvenation to those who seek refuge in its serene embrace.
In practice
During a nature retreat, sharing this quote can inspire participants to connect deeply with their surroundings.
Our business in life is not to succeed, but to continue to fail in good spirits.
Like a bird singing in the rain, let grateful memories survive in time of sorrow.
That man is a success who has lived well, laughed often and loved much.
His past was fairly blameless; few men could read the rolls of their life with less apprehension; yet he was humbled to the dust by the many ill things he had done, and raised up again into sober and fearful gratitude by the many he had come so near to doing, yet avoided.
The habit of being happy enables one to be freed, or largely freed, from the domination of outward conditions.
It is the history of our kindnesses that alone make this world tolerable. If it were not for that, for the effect of kind words, kind looks, kind letters . . . I should be inclined to think our life a practical jest in the worst possible spirit.
Every cent we earn from Crocodile Hunter goes straight back into conservation. Every single cent.
The utilization of flat roofs as 'grounds' offers us a means of re-acclimatizing nature amidst the stony deserts of our great towns; for the plots from which she has been evicted to make room for buildings can be given back to her up aloft.
Presence is needed to become aware of the Beauty, the Majesty, the Sacredness of Nature
If my grandchildren were to look at me and say, 'You were aware species were disappearing and you did nothing, you said nothing', that I think is culpable. I don't know how much more they expect me to be doing, I'd better ask them.
We need the discipline of magic, of consciousness-change, in order to hear and understand what the earth is saying to us. And listening to the earth, doing the rituals the land asks us for, giving back what we are asked for, will also bring us healing, expanded awareness and intensified life.
Take a course in good water and air; and in the eternal youth of Nature you may renew your own. Go quietly, alone; no harm will befall you.
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