Reflections on nature

We are biologically programmed to find beauty in nature. Our very survival depends upon this. The bounty of nature and its processes of growth, respiration, reproduction and decay provide us with an environment that can sustain life. Only by protecting and nuturing our world can we assure our survival. But mankind has done huge damage to nature's systems and has destroyed much that we depend on. From the destruction of the world's forests to bringing the world's largest ever creatures to the verge of extinction, we have ignored the beauty of nature. This beauty is found everwhere; in rivers and clouds, in trees and flowers, in deserts and mountains - nature has laid on for us a visual treat.
It is a continual contradicton that some people are so insulated from nature that they think nothing of damaging parts and destroying others. From the yobs who kick hedgehogs and fox-cubs to death, to the multi-national forestry and fishing companies, nature takes second place to visceral satisfaction or increasing profits. Yet even some of these people find beauty and satisfaction in nature even without realising it. Whether it is in a sunset, a body or the taste of a favourite food. Teaching people about the beauty of nature, showing that it is a friend to be admired rather than an enemy to be exploited and battled against may be one step we can all take to help protect the future of our beautiful planet.
It is in this spirit that I make my own insignificant contribution. I hope to include pictures of flowers, trees and other natural subjects as this blog develops. Some of the pictures will be by Elaine (my other half) and some by me. Many of these will be from my garden - a living, organic work of art.
If you like the flower and garden pictures you may want to look at Gary Gardiner's lovely site http://www.rockatinniswood.com/ where his pictures of tulips are particularly stunning.