Beautiful Nature: Can We Connect with Something we Idealise?
We humans just love admiring beautiful nature, don't we? But when we admire nature only from a distance — on a big screen, in a curated documentary, or as an Instagram-perfect shot — do we risk turning it into a celebrity, something to idolise rather than to enter fully? Mary Contrary dives into how we relate to something that's been here forever.
Lately, I've been wondering why we often put nature on a pedestal and if that keeps us a bit distant. Think about Sir David Attenborough. We've got him to thank for getting us excited about exploring the wonders of nature, especially on a rainy Sunday. Let's really dive in—enjoy the breathtaking views and raw beauty on a big screen with awesome surround sound, accompanied by those beautiful soundtracks you always hear in nature shows. And of course, relax with some snacks and a drink, letting the stunning visuals and music take us to new heights. Nature deserves to be experienced in a BIG way.
Up, Close and Personal
Nature is seriously awesome and mind-blowing, and not just when we see it on our screens, but in real life too. We often say that being in nature makes us happy, helps us heal, and cuts down our stress. We’re convinced that hanging out outside lifts our spirits and boosts our well-being. So yeah, nature is totally amazing and spectacular.
Beautiful Nature's Celebrity Status
But when we start putting nature on a pedestal, are we risking an "us versus them" vibe, kind of like how we view celebrities? Can we actually see it for what it really is? By idolising and glorifying nature, are we setting ourselves up for unrealistic expectations and making the gap between us and nature even bigger? Maybe we're even creating a divide between people who "get" nature and those who don't.
Bells and Whistles
How about we try looking at nature from a different angle? Let's really watch and listen to it, just soaking in its natural, sometimes hidden magic, instead of just admiring it from a distance.
I argue that slowing down and noticing the small, imperfect details helps us bridge that gap. Nature’s quieter moments — the jewel-like raindrop, the hush of wet leaves — invite a different kind of connection, one that heals, humbles and teaches. If you’re curious about seeing the wild a little differently, give the article a read and let me know: what small natural thing has surprised you lately?
About the Author: Mary Contrary
Mary Contrary is a natural-born perspective creator. Her stories give us a different perspective on life than we might have ourselves. In any case, Mary never shies away from being a little contrary. That's what makes life interesting, she says. Mary lives somewhere that's not exactly nature nor a village, and in the evenings, she enjoys watching the bat show with her dogs.
(Pexels- Beyzaa Yurtkuran)
