When I disconnect from nature, I find myself lost in a maze of overthinking—a tangle of “what ifs” and “should haves” that pulls me away from the beauty of the present. Anxiety thrives in those moments of disconnection, but when I step outside and truly observe, something shifts. I’m reminded that life is more than fear of failure. It’s about embracing the now, just like nature does every day.
One of my favorite college experiences has been bonding with the squirrels on campus. They’re nonnative visitors, brought here by humans, but they’ve adapted beautifully—daring to explore their surroundings, living in the moment, and creating a life for themselves.
Did I interfere by advocating for a cozy box for them? Maybe. But I see it as my way of saying thank you—for teaching me how to live in the now and showing me the joy of connection. Watching them reminds me that there’s wonder all around us, even in the smallest, everyday moments.
Settle for less disconnection from nature to discover the beauty of the present waiting for you.
Photo Credit: Campus Honors Program at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
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