My Deep Respect for Nature: Rooted in My Tiv Heritage
From my earliest memories, nature has always been my sanctuary, my teacher, and my guide. Growing up steeped in the rich traditions of my Tiv heritage, I learned to see the earth not merely as a resource but as a living, breathing entity deserving of reverence and care. In Tiv culture, the land is sacred; it feeds, nurtures, and shelters us, and in return, we are taught to honor it with respect and gratitude.
As a child, I would listen to the stories of my elders, who spoke of the interconnectedness of all life—the plants, the trees, the rivers, and the people. These stories planted seeds of wonder in my heart long before I understood their deeper spiritual meaning. I came to see the natural world not only as a source of physical sustenance but also as a wellspring of wisdom and healing.
Without realizing it at the time, these experiences laid the foundation for my spiritual journey. The rituals of planting and harvest, the whispers of the wind through the trees, and the vibrant colors of the earth in bloom taught me to recognize the divine in the world around me. This connection to nature was my first introduction to spirituality—a silent, profound awareness that life’s greatest lessons often come from the quiet embrace of the earth.
Today, this deep respect for nature continues to guide me. It is the compass for my spiritual path, reminding me to stay grounded, present, and attuned to the rhythms of life. My Tiv roots instilled in me the understanding that nature is not separate from us but an extension of who we are—a truth that remains the core of my being and the heart of my journey.
