The wise ancients knew this and taught it: the forest itself can be our role model. From it we learn the truth of the old saying: “die Bäume wachsen nicht in den Himmel,” “The trees do not grow into the sky.” In other words, we can’t always have infinite growth: we must be prudent.

We can take lessons from the vineyard as well: we can work as hard as we want, but if the weather isn’t right, all efforts are in vain. Realizing this makes you humble. We learn that not everything is in our control, but that there is a higher law there, in nature: the law of God; his providence overrules all our plans.

When I step into the forest, I feel awe.