A tree hugger gives thanks for nature’s goodness

As an inveterate tree hugger, I once again have many, many things to be thankful for when Thanksgiving comes next week. I’m thankful, of course, for family and friends, but I’m also grateful for Georgia‘s amazing natural wonders, beauty and splendor that I never tire of.

I’m thankful for:

Nature’s generosity. Mother Earth freely bestows upon us life-giving clean air, water and soil, even though we might not seem so appreciative when we pollute and sully these vital resources.

Nature’s remarkable healing powers. I find serenity and solace in the forests, meadows, wetlands, rivers, mountain peaks, marshlands and in Georgia’s other incredible wild places. Spending time with nature can refresh weary minds, uplift the human spirit, relieve stress, reduce anxiety and promote overall well-being.

Georgia’s amazing natural diversity. With thousands of species of native plants and animals, Georgia ranks sixth in biodiversity among all states, says the Nature Conservancy. Native species play vital roles in maintaining the health of their ecosystems: Bees pollinate flowers, trees emit oxygen, birds and bats consume tons of pesky insects, and on and on.

Georgia’s seasonal splendor. In spring, wildflowers burst into riots of color and songbirds sing sweetly; in summer, the landscape is 50 shades of green and wild babies are out and about; in autumn, dazzling leaf color emerges and nuts and fruits ripen; in winter, bare tree limbs form intricate silhouettes that look like works of art.

Protected green spaces. They include national parks, wilderness areas, state parks, nature preserves, national wildlife refuges, state wildlife management areas and an array of other wildlands where native flora and fauna can thrive. Their diverse habitats also provide clean air and water and protect the soil. I’m especially thankful for Georgia’s national forests, the Chattahoochee and the Oconee with their combined 866,000 acres of wildness.