There are places in nature we particularly admire for their beauty, and there is nothing wrong with that. On the first pages of Holy Scripture, it is stated that God, during creation, declared each part of nature to be good. However, it is notable that, while nature is declared good, humanity, during its creation, is described as “very good” (cf. Gen 1).

In this context, Saint Augustine remarks that people travel to marvel at high mountains, massive ocean waves, long river courses, vast ocean expanses, and the circular movement of stars, yet they pass by themselves – and are not amazed at all. It is easy to see beauty in nature, but sometimes it is much harder to see beauty in others or, perhaps most of all, in ourselves. Compared to the wonders of nature, it can be difficult to recognize that what is “very good” in us and that what, according to God’s judgment, surpasses all the marvels of nature and the universe.

This is because we see nature as calm, innocent, and pure, while we recognize humanity in so many ways as impure. Indeed, we obscure our own image in many ways and, due to our sins and weaknesses, have reasons to feel unclean. Yet, even in our impurity, God declares us more valuable than the wonders of nature, so much so that we are worth dying for.

It is good to remember this when observing particularly beautiful parts of nature that make us feel small. We are not perfect, but that does not change who we are. It is easier to return to our dignity, even if we have betrayed it, than to live untruthfully, far from our true selves. This causes the greatest pain and damage, both to us and those around us. The human spirit needs to know and live the truth about itself. Often, we are inclined to believe what others think and say about us. Perhaps it is time to consider what the Author of our life says and thinks about us.