The first in time and the first in importance of the influences upon the mind is that of nature.

The first in time and the first in importance of the influences upon the mind is that of nature. First of all, most important in function. ——Emerson

The lover of nature is he whose inward and outward senses are still truly adjusted to each other; who has retained the spirit of infancy even into the era of manhood.

People who love nature feel attuned to their inner and outer nature and remain childlike even into adulthood. ——Emerson

What is a weed? —A plant whose virtues have not been discovered. What is a weed? ——Weed is a plant whose utilization value has not yet been discovered. ——Emerson

Animals are such agreeable friends—they ask no questions, they pass no criticisms.

Animals are such agreeable friends—they ask no questions, they pass no criticisms. criticize.

——George Eliot