Walking

by Henry David Thoreau

What business have I in the woods, if I am thinking of something out of the woods?

Henry D Thoreau stated the definition of being present which is so relevant these days.

Life consists with wildness. The most alive is the wildest. Not yet subdued to man, its presence refreshes him.

The civilized nations—Greece, Rome, England—have been sustained by the primitive forests which anciently rotted where they stand. They survive as long as the soil is not exhausted. Alas for human culture!

Interesting relation between soil fertility and culture. Same point is explored by Satish Kumar in his "Soil, Soul, Society". I'm looking forward to read that one.