During many of my most challenging times, I have taken a trip to clear my mind and soul. In these trips (or walks, when closer to home), I learned the most wisdom and perseverance by observing nature. And those observations then helped me look inward, in a new way, which, with time, helped me discern my way through the world. There is a magic in travel, and nature restores us.
I photographed these vibrant plants in Costa Rica on the way to Tortuguero, a national park island navigable by boat. This park is unusual, beautiful, and offers much to observe and contemplate. It consists of an archipelago of volcanic islands with alluvial sediments, from the interior mountains, filling in the spaces between, forming a marshy network of lush islands. This photograph has been exhibited at Plaxall Gallery in Long Island City, NY, USA.
“There is new life in the soil for every person. There is healing in the trees for tired minds, and our overburdened spirits. There is strength in the hills, if only we lift up our eyes. Remember than nature is our greatest restorer. ” ~Calvin Coolidge
These words remind me I can find solace and inspiration in nature. They help me find the strength to carry on, during the difficult moments. There IS healing in the trees and strength in the hills.
~Mary T Giancoli – Artist, Educator, Mother and Photographer, based in New York, after part of a youth studying in Italy.