meetings

I have had several meetings today. So, much for a day off.

The first was in an orthodontist's office. Thankfully brief. Learnt the boy is a month out from not having to wear his Tron mask anymore.

The third meeting was in a boardroom. Not normally my favourite place, but needs must. A lot was accomplished. Everyone attending was like minded and events moved quickly. In fact, I was having a side conversation to cover a supporting item and then suddenly everyone was shuffling papers and getting up. I looked around and asked if the meeting was adjourned? A few chuckles and a couple of Yups. Okay, not too painful.

However, the second meeting was the best of the lot. It was in a forest. A couple of other Scouters and myself met at Baxter Conservation Area. We hashed out a lot for this weekend's upcoming Scout Camp. We worked out contingencies based on the expected variable weather and confirmed what the Scouts themselves want to accomplish and all that sort of blather. 

You know, if more meetings were held in forests, on trails, by the water, in nature, so much more could be accomplished. I kid you not. It is healthier, both physically and mentally. There are so many fewer artificial distractions. 

Sure, the beauty of your surroundings can make your mind wander, but to very positive aspects and it does not really distract from communicating in the end. Plus, you need to flex your brain. Even if you take notes, you still need to remember a lot of what was said and agreed upon.

Yet, I find it is easier to not lose track and easier to remember details. You will associate that big bastard of a black cherry tree when you came to that elusive conclusion to a concern you were seeking. Or those ducks drifting by when you had that mini-epiphany. Or that stand of saplings those "damn" beavers took out when that new approach to an ongoing sticky point was worked out. 

It gives you clarity because you cannot doze-off in your leatherette backed rolly-chair. If you doze off in the woods, you are going probably smack your head on an old ironwood tree as you plummet to the ground.

Focus and clarity are the results of communing with nature while working. Why would it not be? Nothing is more splendid than walking through a wooded area or along the water. How could it not be? The beauty and serenity can only clear your mind to get things done. I bet your subconscious is getting your waking efforts to be done and over with, albeit with accuracy, so you can enjoy the grandeur that true nature is.

So, next time someone says: "Walk with me." or "We need to talk." Reply with: "Sure, those trees look like a great place to make tracks too!" or: "Lets hoof it over to that pond with the ducks!"

Nothing else makes sense..... trees, water, why not?! blbbl