“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.