Alláh’u’abhá, World! 🌏

As my family and I enjoy our vacation at a cabin in Mineral Bluff, Georgia, the winds of inspiration are very much at work! While sitting on wrap-around porch after sunrise on Monday March 15, 2021 (15 Alá 177) and gazing at the small rapids trickling down the creek below, I began to ponder and appreciate God’s handiwork. The constant movement of the stream; the birds singing in the morning; the cool breeze caressing my face while a light steam drifted from my cup of coffee; the stillness compared to city living. My heart swells with gratitude beyond words as I reflect upon nature. All glory belongs to Him for this wonderful creation.

This nature-based vacation in this rather sparsely populated area of northern Georgia is having a profound impact on my spirituality this week. Being reconnected with the natural world is recharging and inspirational indeed. God’s voice and guidance comes into focus, much like a radio station comes into focus through fine-tuning. ”This is HIS work”, I say to myself while admiring the soothing sounds of the rippling stream.

So an inspiration came to me this morning: I have created a blog to complement the Bahá’i Oasis podcast, and I feel led to bring more awareness to nature through our Faith.

And so the Outdoor Oasis has been born. This is the basic plan for the Outdoor Oasis:

1. I will share my personal insights through this blog, which pertain to my Faith.

2. I’d like to encourage the establishment of Bahá’i devotionals in nature (local parks, beaches, campgrounds, forests, etc.)….while observing proper, legal social distancing protocols, of course.

3. I hope to inspire others to connect with, and get out into, nature on a regular basis.

4. Unite and appreciate something we ALL have in common: our beautiful planet!

I would love to hear your feedback and comments. Let’s embrace nature and connect with God, and each other, through His awesome gifts!