Lessons from the Land: A Lighthearted Reminder from Nature

One day, long ago, my grandmother had a simple request.
She said, “Rye, we’re expecting visitors today, and I’d like you to spend some time with their daughter. She might not enjoy sitting with us older folks.”

I was 15, and the daughter was about my age. I couldn’t help but wonder if this was a deliberate setup — but I agreed nonetheless.

An Unexpected Adventure

When the family arrived, they greeted us with warm smiles that instantly piqued my curiosity. They were kind, engaging, and full of good humour. I quickly realized that staying indoors wasn’t an option — I needed to make this visit interesting.

Turning to the daughter, I suggested we explore the woods, knowing the land always had a way of making an impression.

As we wandered through the fields and trees, I noticed her curiosity unfold. She was full of questions, marvelling at the landscape, absorbing every sound and scent like an eager student of nature. It was refreshing — until our adventure took an unexpected and comedic turn.

The Cocoa Puff Incident

We had reached a grove of cedar trees when we stumbled upon what, at first glance, looked like a small pile of cocoa puffs.

Of course, I knew better.

Lost in thought, I assumed she was right behind me — until I realized my words had been met with silence. Turning back, I found her crouched on the ground, holding something in her hand, her expression a mix of fascination and uncertainty.

As she held up her discovery for confirmation, I struggled to keep a straight face before breaking the news:

“Uh… that’s not a cocoa puff. That’s rabbit poop.”

The moment was priceless. Her face flashed with shock and disbelief — and then she laughed, the kind of laughter that only pure, unexpected absurdity can inspire.

Finding Humour in the Unexpected

That day, nature delivered its lesson: things aren’t always as they seem, and sometimes, the best memories come from the moments that humble us.

Rabbits don’t make cocoa puffs, and deer don’t produce milk duds — no matter what Western traditions might say about rabbits and Easter eggs.

The real takeaway from this lighthearted experience?
Don’t take life (or yourself) too seriously.

Nature has a way of grounding us, keeping us humble, and reminding us to find humour in the unexpected.

So if you ever find yourself in an awkward or messy situation, brush it off — literally and figuratively — and keep moving forward.

Some of life’s best lessons come wrapped in humour, humility, and a little bit of dirt.

Take Away from the Trail

Next time you step outside, slow down and let nature remind you to laugh, breathe, and enjoy the unexpected. And when you return, unwind with a comforting cup of Kebaonish coffee or tea — a perfect companion for reflection (and a good story).

Blog by Rye Karonhiowanen Barberstock