My childhood home in Livonia, Michigan, had a phenomenal backyard. Stepping out the back door onto the flagstone path, I would hopscotch my way into nature. On either side of the path were various fruit trees: cherry, pear, apple, and even a small plum tree. The spring blossoms were a beautiful sight! While we often couldn’t enjoy the cherries because the birds got to them first, the Bartlett pears plucked right off the trees were pure sunshine and deliciousness!
The flagstone path continued past the pool and fruited trees, ending at a Quonset hut-style shed with an attached flat-roofed shed. The hut had become a playhouse for me. In summer, friends and I were sometimes allowed to sleep there on the raised wood platforms, tucked in our sleeping bags, snacking and laughing. The cricket chirps and gentle breezes floating through the screened window were a symphony to my ears.
Behind the shed were two long rows of Concord grape vines. I have not had a grape so delicious since. Fifty years later, I can still taste their goodness and feel the delight of plucking them off the vine under the late August sun. It was quite the yard!
This is where I began to learn about nature and identify plants like rhubarb, fresh raspberries, and currants that grew along the fence. There were various insects, toads, and birds to observe. Two vibrant lilac bushes flanked the south corner of the house, their scent filling my bedroom through the open windows. Between the house and pool was an open space where we had countless whiffleball, soccer, badminton, and volleyball matches. I learned to swim in the oval pool, staying in the water until my fingers were like raisins and my lips a cold blue.
My favorite apple tree had a straight branch perpendicular to the trunk that had become a parallel bar for my inner gymnast. With a big jump from the main tree trunk, I reached and grabbed hold of the ‘bar,’ to pull myself up and over, swinging around and hanging upside down, dismounting to the ground like the Roman gymnast, Nadia Comaneci (well, kind of like Nadia, in my mind anyway…).
I knew every inch of that yard. It was where the seeds of adoration for nature and physical activity were planted. I read books on the hammock, jumped rope on the cement patio near the stone grill, and lay on the grass looking at the Big Dipper. It was my Eden – a paradise where I lived and moved and had my being – feeling happy, whole, and safe.
That childhood paradise inspired a lifelong love for outdoor spaces. One big difference is that, as a child, I was unaware of God’s presence watching over me as I climbed the trees, explored ant hills, ate popsicles, and played the day away. However, that special place influenced my adult vision, seeing His creativity, power, and presence in each flower, bug, and scenic view.
In the New Testament, paradise refers to a place of blessedness and divine presence. Can you imagine the Garden of Eden, the original paradise? Adam and Eve were surrounded by perfect beauty, calm, and splendor in this spectacular place of abundance, living in communion with God and nature. They identified plants, trees, and animals, enjoying pure sunshine and deliciousness throughout their days.
Naturalist John Muir, known as the “father of the national parks,” said, “In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.” Spending time in nature supports wellness by helping to reduce stress, boost our immune system, and improve our mental well-being. Nature provides a sense of awe and connection to God as we see his power and creativity. I am reminded of the Norwegian concept, ‘friluftsliv’ (pronounced free-loofts-liv), which translates to ‘free air life’ or ‘life in the outdoors’ – a philosophical approach to nature that is about connecting with nature while disconnecting from modern life for a while and embracing the present moment. Yes, please!
When life is hectic and the pressure is on, one remedy is to connect with God in nature. My visits to ‘paradise’ – on a hiking trail under tall trees, on a sandy beach, in our garden, or simply sitting in a sunny space on the back steps watching nature – are so good for the soul.
Do you have an ‘Eden’ that you enjoy? Are you visiting it frequently to be refreshed?