Making a Difference: Connect With Nature

 **“You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference and you have to decide what kind of a difference you want to make.”** *―Jane Goodall English primatologist”* The sun was moderately warm on this Saturday afternoon, and we were so lucky to have met a friend who invited us for a hike to the river which they used to visit in her younger years. It was a perfect opportunity for me so I can once again watch the cascading river that will definitely ebb my wearies. I was bitten by a stray cat that I rescued last Friday and it ran away after biting me. It was nowhere to be found, and I was worried about this. Luckily, my friend bought a beer in our store and I was overjoyed when she told me about the plan as I knew that the calming effect of the river would swing my mood into great relaxation.  Uplifting my emotions from a dreadful situation can be overcome easily if I can connect with nature. I intuitively know this. We've been into different wanderings and I already know how influential is the calming effect of nature.   It was a 50-minute walk before reaching our itinerary. In this blog, I'm going to share the experiences that we have as we are immersed in nature. --- **The shared experience in the past**   Living closer to nature has a positive impact on human beings. Gazing at this green field reminded me of those years when I used to get firewood here. The simple living with unequal happiness is beyond compare. It is truly amazing.  _{The soil preparation to be planted with corn}    Upon our arrival in this small village located in barangay Caduawan, Tabogon, Cebu, I admired the serenity of the place. They have optimal connections with nature. They are blessed with the abundance of their crops and the best comfort of the surroundings is one-of-a-kind. To be in this setting is more pleasing and rewarding.   Domestic animals are raised here and this cogon grass is harvested to be fed to them. We passed some locals cutting the weeds to be fed to their goats tied under their houses. A scenario like this brings back the memories of those years when we used to raise goats and pigs. My father fed them with these stuff from nature. --- **Connecting with nature**  How amazing this place is. The centennial deep well that is a source of water for the inhabitants nearby is surrounded by huge trees. Another source of life for the locals and their domestic animals.   We have reached the stupendous picturesque river. Before reaching there, the natural bubbling of the water is heard and is awe-inspiring to our senses. The adventure will not be completed if we do not get down to scrutinize what was waiting there for us. I dared to get down although my nerves quivered in fear. It was a success!    As we immersed in this relaxing place, the natural flowing sound of the river and the aromatic smell of the trees bridged my emotions to connect with nature. Gradually, it alleviated my worries and led me to my inner peace with happiness.    I was fascinated with the chirping sound of the birds above these huge trees. I appreciate the diversity of this place. It enhanced my willingness to connect with nature even more. ---   I had a great afternoon after all when I was connected with nature. When we are surrounded by it, the positive energies attracted will help in reducing stress and anxiety. Immersing in it will free all our delusions.  Embrace nature's grace and beauty and this truly makes a difference in your day.