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Nightlife

Savoring the Natural Wilderness

By Jessica C.Published 2 years ago 4 min read
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The trees swayed in a gentle breeze, caressing her skin with its cool touch. Serena breathed deeply, absorbing the tranquility of the woods around her. Nature always had a magical quality, a soothing touch. The natural environment could soothe and heal the soul. Crickets chirped their summer song in the swaying grass, adding to the calming evening ambiance.

Leaning against the tree she was perched in, she gazed upon the peaceful scenery. All was bathed in warm swatches as the sun descended in the sky. Vibrant hues saturated the expansive sky above, taking Serena’s breath away. The sunsets were stunning out here, no buildings or skyscrapers obscuring the natural splendor the world had to offer. Serena sighed, content to stay forever in the spot, soaking it all in, as the sun painted the landscape with oranges, reds, and pinks.

As the first stars began twinkling in the sky, Serena smiled gently before swinging down to the ground below. She leisurely meandered her way back towards her great aunt’s farm, savoring the serene, summer symphony all around her. She loved her home, but it wasn’t the same—the land surrounding her great aunt’s home seemed enchanted compared to the more “civilized” cities and towns. Sure, there weren’t as many “conveniences” and “attractions” out here, but the people who couldn’t see its appeal were truly missing out.

As Serena rounded the bend, she caught a glimpse of the neighbor’s homestead off in the distance. A soft chuckle escaped her lips as she reminisced about the time years ago when their goats had escaped one summer she had visited. Her great aunt had enlisted her in the roundup, but the goats didn’t comply or make things easy. They were crafty creatures and refused to relinquish their newfound freedom—not that they hadn’t experienced a great deal of freedom beforehand. Serena had related to their desire to explore the brand-new world that opened up to them and go on an exciting, new adventure, but the neighbors wouldn’t be happy when they got back and realized the goats were now escapees, refusing to be restricted by fencing again. It hadn’t been an easy feat to accomplish, especially since a few of the goats decided to get into an altercation with some of the wild turkeys that roamed the area, but they managed to get each elusive goat back home. Said goats were a little miffed to be returned but easily disregarded that fact when presented with a snack of corn. The neighbors swiftly fortified the fencing, not desiring a repeat, but Serena thought it could prove entertaining if it had occurred again.

As she continued her stroll, she swung her arms, grateful to be away from the chaotic cacophony of civilization. Sure, the modern society had its conveniences, but it came at a cost. Peaceful nature spaces were becoming more and more scarce, threatening the homes of so many different species. Progress was well and good, but it’d be so much better if humanity could progress in harmony with nature rather than controlling and eliminating it. So many other beings called the planet home, yet humanity as a whole seemed to forget that fact. Inhaling a massive lung-full of the sweet, fresh air that could only come from nature, Serena couldn’t fathom why so many of her peers were repulsed by nature. Nature was a crucial, integral part of the world; so many of her classmates were so disconnected yet they didn’t even realize it. It was disheartening, but it truly was their loss; Serena wouldn’t trade this for anything.

Serena twirled, enamored with the sensation of the night air’s cool touch. She broke into a huge smile, recognizing the call of one of the local inhabitants. The hooting grew louder as she approached the barn. Glancing up overhead, she spotted her nighttime companion. Perched upon the rooftop sat the stunning owl, feathers shimmering with moonlight. Serena sighed at the owl’s natural grace and beauty. With silent wings, the owl descended and glided into the woods in search of its meal. With a happy wave and a smile, Serena watched her nocturnal friend disappear from sight.

Silence blanketed the surroundings. Peering up at the full moon that hang luminously overhead, Serena flashed a grin, completely at peace and feeling wholeheartedly at home. Others may enjoy the mall and their throng of technological gadgets, but they could keep it all. Connecting with nature and all of Earth’s creatures was irreplaceable.

Serena couldn’t wait to share the experience with her best friend, Karissa. Soon her self-imposed training camp would be complete, and Karissa would join her. Giddy excitement oozed from her being at the thought; there was so much the two could do, so many places to explore. It had taken some convincing, but Karissa finally relented and agreed to spend the end of summer break at her great aunt’s farm. Serena knew that Karissa would appreciate the unimpeded nightly spectacles; the air was sweeter and the setting sky so much more remarkable. Plus, Karissa would enjoy her nocturnal pal, as she had always had an affinity for owls and other creatures of the night. Yes, this summer break would be one to remember for their entire lifetime.

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About the Creator

Jessica C.

I've always enjoyed creating, whether it be art or stories. I've enjoyed creating art from a young age and have worked in a variety of schools. I adore anime & cats. Over the summer we adopted baby Tsuki/Tsukihime, my moon princess kitten.

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