Gifts from nature: A sense of wonder

A beautiful sunrise takes the breath away. A red cardinal on a snow-covered tree limb catches the eye. The broods of young wildlife emerging in the spring sparks a smile. In all its beauty, the natural world provides daily marvels that give many a sense of wonder.

At the spring 2009 session of the
Sense of Wonder Camp, a camp for children
ages 3 to 4 at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge.
Credit: Kate Toniolo/USFWS

During this season of holiday giving, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service would like to take time and reflect on the gifts we receive throughout the year from Mother Nature. Gifts of Nature are treasures to behold and wonders to be thankful for.

"The Sense of Wonder," written by award-winning author and conservationist Rachel Carson, inspires readers to develop a lifelong respect for Mother Nature. Carson awakens readers to the natural world's allure, as well as its fragility.

In the book, she writes, “It is a wholesome and necessary thing for us to turn again to the earth and in the contemplation of her beauties to know the sense of wonder and humility.” 

As often seen in the eyes and laughter of a child as they explore the outdoors through uninhibited actions, this sense of wonder can take hold of us and bring us back to the playful days of our youth. 

Unwrap this gift this holiday season and spend some time outdoors: 

• Visit a national wildlife refuge.
• Walk in a local park or nature trail. 
• Look for birds and other wildlife in your own backyard.

Experience for yourself these gifts so eloquently described by Carson in her many writings. Mother Nature gives these year round, asking only for protection in return.