60. Nature’s lessons: showing through language

Dramatic lightning over a bulding

Introduction

In writing, the principle of "show, don’t tell" is a powerful tool for creating vivid, engaging narratives. This concept can also be applied to the way we engage with the natural world—observing, experiencing, and learning from nature rather than merely describing it. Nature itself is the ultimate storyteller, showing us its secrets through the changing seasons, the cycles of life, and the intricate relationships between all living things. This blog explores how we can learn from nature’s way of showing, using the language of the earth to deepen our understanding of the world around us.

The language of nature

Nature communicates with us in its own language, a language of patterns, rhythms, and signs that we can learn to read and interpret. Just as in writing, where showing rather than telling creates a more immersive experience, nature shows us its wisdom through direct observation and experience. By tuning into this language, we can gain insights into the workings of the natural world and our place within it.

For example, the way a tree’s leaves turn golden in the autumn doesn’t just tell us that the seasons are changing—it shows us the process of life and renewal, the preparation for the coming winter, and the promise of rebirth in the spring. The rustling of leaves in the wind is not just a sound; it’s a message of connection, a reminder that everything in nature is linked by invisible threads. By learning to read these signs, we can develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world and the lessons it has to offer.

Showing through natural phenomena

Nature’s way of showing is often through dramatic and awe-inspiring phenomena—events that capture our attention and make us pause to reflect on the forces at work. A thunderstorm, with its flashes of lightning and rolling thunder, shows us the power and energy that drive the weather, reminding us of the earth’s dynamic and ever-changing nature. A rainbow after the rain is a show of light and color, a natural demonstration of the principles of reflection, refraction, and dispersion.

These natural phenomena are more than just spectacles; they are lessons in the interconnectedness of all things. They show us how the elements interact, how energy flows through the environment, and how life adapts to changing conditions. By observing these events with a curious and open mind, we can learn from nature’s demonstrations, gaining insights that go beyond mere description.

Learning from nature’s cycles

Nature’s cycles—the changing seasons, the water cycle, the life cycle of plants and animals—are perhaps its most consistent and reliable way of showing us how the world works. These cycles are a form of natural storytelling, showing us the continuity of life, the balance of ecosystems, and the resilience of the earth.

For instance, the cycle of growth, decay, and renewal in a forest ecosystem shows us the principles of sustainability and interdependence. The way plants recycle nutrients from the soil, how animals contribute to seed dispersal, and how the forest regenerates after a disturbance are all examples of nature’s wisdom in action. By paying attention to these cycles, we can learn valuable lessons about how to live in harmony with the earth, how to manage resources responsibly, and how to adapt to change.

Applying nature’s lessons to our lives

The lessons we learn from nature’s way of showing can be applied to many areas of our lives. Just as nature teaches us about balance, resilience, and adaptation, we can incorporate these principles into our own lives. By observing how ecosystems thrive through cooperation and diversity, we can apply similar strategies to our communities, workplaces, and personal relationships.

For example, the concept of "biodiversity" in nature shows us the importance of diversity in creating strong and resilient systems. This can be applied to human societies, where embracing diverse perspectives, skills, and backgrounds can lead to greater innovation and problem-solving. Similarly, nature’s ability to recover from disturbances—whether through the regrowth of a forest after a fire or the regeneration of coral reefs—teaches us about resilience and the power of renewal in the face of challenges.

Conclusion: learning to show through the language of nature

Nature is the ultimate teacher, showing us its secrets through observation, experience, and direct interaction. By learning to read the language of the earth, we can deepen our understanding of the natural world and apply its lessons to our own lives. Whether through the changing seasons, the dramatic displays of natural phenomena, or the cycles of life and renewal, nature has much to teach us about balance, resilience, and interconnectedness. As I continue to explore the lessons of the natural world, I’m committed to using the language of nature to show, rather than tell, the wisdom it has to offer. Through this approach, we can all learn to live more harmoniously with the earth and each other.

The reference artwork