Chapter 1: The Disconnection from Nature

Recently, I encountered a familiar phrase: "Nature doesn't need us after we have children." This statement has consistently troubled me, as it reflects a consumer-oriented mindset towards the natural world. Have you ever pondered the origins of such a sentiment? It seems to arise during a time when people have increasingly distanced themselves from Nature. Yet, I feel a deeper understanding of Nature has emerged within me. Why wasn’t this perspective prevalent a millennium ago?

In the past, humans likely had a closer bond with Nature, as well as a more profound appreciation for Life itself. They experienced it directly rather than viewing it through a detached lens. There's a saying that when one suffers, particularly emotionally, they "retreat into their mind," opting for thought over direct experience. This might explain the cynical viewpoint that suggests, "Now that I've given birth, Nature is unnecessary; it can fade away."

Let's examine Nature's relationship with living beings more closely. Indeed, some species, like certain insects and plants, reproduce only to perish shortly after. However, in the animal kingdom, Nature seems to demand that parents nurture their offspring; otherwise, the young ones face certain death.

Additionally, many animals possess the ability to reproduce throughout their lives. When this ability diminishes, they often face an early demise. Yet, animals can also live lengthy lives without reproduction due to various circumstances, such as lack of a mate, captivity, or competition. Nature appears unbothered by such cases; these creatures can maintain their health and enjoy remarkable longevity. This is not an oversight on Nature’s part; rather, it demonstrates her precise and thoughtful design, shaped by millennia of evolution.

Since Nature permits living beings—humans, animals, trees—to exist without the necessity of procreation, it implies that there are other objectives at play. These objectives can be numerous, but a few stand out.

Firstly, children are not merely meant to be born; they must also be nurtured. In the case of humans, offspring require extensive care and affection from adults to thrive. It typically takes about 20 years for a child to develop the skills necessary for independent living. Thus, it is beneficial for Nature that humans not only give birth but also raise their children to maturity.

Secondly, humans are inherently social creatures who function within groups, fulfilling various roles. A similar structure exists among certain animal species living in communities, where not every member can reproduce. Nonetheless, they contribute by caring for the young, gathering food, or protecting the group. Humans, too, engage in complex interactions, and such communication across diverse ages and backgrounds should be considered one of Nature’s aims.

The third goal involves acquiring and sharing knowledge. This encompasses direct teaching and the transfer of information across generations. The accumulation and testing of experiences play a crucial role in evolution.

Another significant aspect of Life and Nature lies in their richness—experiencing a myriad of situations, the interactions among diverse species, and the endless variability of conditions. Different life experiences, perspectives, and reactions to various circumstances enrich Nature’s complexity. Consequently, it seems simplistic and narrow-minded to confine Nature's manifestations solely to reproduction.

The first video titled "Why We Must Re-Connect Children to Nature" discusses the critical importance of immersing children in the natural world to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of it.

The second video titled "Parents and the Changing Nature of Child Care" explores how parenting dynamics evolve and the impact of societal changes on child-rearing practices.

Chapter 2: Nature's Endless Goals