In recent centuries, art and material possessions have become pervasive in human life. Our walls are covered in paintings and photographs that are most frequently depictions of animals, trees, and outdoor scenes. We have figurines of real animals. Our children have rooms full of teddy “bears” and even our pets have toys resembling other animal species. Many of us fill our homes with potted plants. A few make failing attempts at domesticating a wild species in hopes of making it into a “pet.” All around us, we see man-made replicas of Nature.
Early man made cave drawings to tell stories – perhaps even as a way to communicate. They, too, decorated earthenware and some of their few possessions, much as an artist today may sign her painting or pottery. If we look around our homes today, we can see that most of what we have is not at all necessary for our lives, or for our comfort. The more of these expensive (and even cheap) unnecessary items that we own, the more impressed our friends will be. But, how often have we purchased some coveted thing only to forget about it and move on to fulfilling another desire – something new to add to our collection of “stuff?” Those who cannot let go of the old and continue adding to their stockpile of things, become hoarders. Whether we are rich or poor, or whether we fall into that nebulous space known as middle class, we are never satisfied. The happiness we seek seems to remain just out of reach.
Could it be that our constant striving, searching, and reaching for replicas of Nature, is our soul’s longing to be reunited with her? We have placed so many barriers between us – tall, glass-fronted buildings, concrete, asphalt, fences, and walls. The animal statue that sits proudly, but cold and dead on our coffee table, can never equal the vibrant life of the real animal it resembles. The forest painting of trees and a babbling brook cannot begin to compare to sitting on the bank of a stream, enjoying Nature in all her glory. We have stolen habitat and most of the wild animals have been driven away. The longing in our hearts remains, regardless of how many new things we acquire. Our hearts will not be satisfied until we welcome Nature back and acknowledge our oneness with her.
