Civilization Has Not Taught Me Anything Better

“Long before I ever heard of Christ, or saw a White man, I learned from an untutored woman the essence of morality. With the help of dear nature herself, she taught me things simple but of mighty import. I knew God. I perceived what goodness is. I saw and loved what is really beautiful. Civilization has not taught me anything better.”

-Charles Eastman

I came across this quote during my reading time, and I found it to be so beautiful.

Since spending much more time in nature, I’ve discovered that the feelings of peace, happiness, and wholeness that can be found there. Feelings that cannot be written down in a book.

When I’m at peace in nature, I do not want to harm anyone. Feelings of love wash over me, and I feel a oneness with the earth.

Some people might not consider nature to “teach us morality,” but I sure do.

All we need to do is connect and listen, and nature will show us.

Surely, nature will teach us other lessons, too. There is a balance in nature. Fierceness and peacefulness are both present.

But when I’m tuned into the peaceful side…when I’m in my backyard, or sitting next to a stream, I know what to do.

When I’m quiet and meditate on the sounds around me, I know how to act.

Nature is a great teacher if we take the time to listen. As Charles Eastman said, “Civilization has not taught me anything better.”