“No synonym for God is so perfect as Beauty. Whether as seen carving the lines of the mountains with glaciers, or gathering matter into stars, or planning the movements of water, or gardening – still all is Beauty!” – John Muir
The above picture is from my Sierra Club Calendar for April. I have been getting the calendar for my office for the past six years. Each month reveals a beautiful picture taken from one of the US National Parks. The Sierra Club was founded by John Muir “to make the mountains glad.”. A naturalist, conservationist, and explorer, John Muir is known as the father of our National Parks and influenced Theodore Roosevelt to establish Yosemite National Park. I thought I would share a bit today about John Muir since my calendar noted that today is his birthday, his 174th birthday in fact.
I have mentioned before that being in nature inspires me, running, cycling or limping along. Last week I shared pictures from my run through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. I sometimes take for granted the convenience and beauty of the parks. If it weren’t for the efforts of Muir and others, we wouldn’t have so many beautiful places to take in all nature has to offer. Taking time to appreciate not just nature and it’s beauty, but also those that care enough to establish, maintain, and expand the parks is important.
Inspiration comes in many forms. A glimpse at the sky, a mountain scape, a person’s efforts, or a beautiful sunset are just a few. What matters is that there is so much more beyond ourselves, our concerns, and our priorities. Taking time to appreciate the natural beauty around us inspires, humbles, and motivates. Even when surrounded by raindrops and dark clouds, there is a rainbow waiting.
elisariva 
That Sierra Club calendar sounds awesome!
I fully agree with your comments about taking time to appreciate natural beauty. That’s something my semi-hippie wife has helped me appreciate. Before her, I really couldn’t have cared less about sunrises or sunsets. Now, they’re sometimes the highlight of the day (mostly sunsets. I’m not always outside to enjoy the sunrises. Ha.)
Thank you for reading! Glad you liked it. Summer is comming, sunrises are a bit early I know…
You are just overflowing with inspiration. Keep it coming. It’s good 🙂
Thank you! I loved the quote, so true.
I think one of the best things about running and cycling is being outside with nothing between you and your surroundings. I love the morning rides through the local state park… I always see herds of deer, and usually get to see the sun come up over the river. Makes me think of the song “My Redeemer Lives”… who taught the sun how to shine in the morning, who told the ocean, “You can only come this far…”
Oh that is one of my favorite songs! Thank you for the reminder.
Totally agree. I LOVE nature and the sense of peace and awe I get when I am surrounded by it.
You phrase it well – peace and awe. Thank you.