The Beauty of Nature

Have you ever wondered why the beauty of nature resonates so much with humans? I find it so interesting that most of us share a common reaction to natural beauty and the fact that we have such a strong interest to see it. I don't know what it means, if anything. But to me it seems like the proof that we need that tells us that we live in a benevolent universe. All of the things that we need to live a joy filled life are all around us. If we take the time to really notice the natural beauty that surrounds us, it can be a portal in which gratitude for living can start to take over as a dominant force in our lives. Here are some photos I took today along a beautiful stretch along the Colombia River here in Oregon.