Muir’s Miracle & What Happened Next (Part 1)

John Muir’s claim to fame as our country’s most celebrated naturalist had a traumatic and unlikely start: while at work in a carriage factory, he was blinded by an awl that flew from a machine. Following the horrific accident, Muir spent six weeks resting in a darkened room while visitors read to him of far-away places he could only imagine. Alone in the dark, he made a promise to himself: if he ever regained his sight, he would spend his life outdoors, studying plants. Miraculously, his sight returned and in September of 1867, he set out to hike from his home in Indianapolis to the Gulf of Mexico, “by the wildest, leafiest and least trodden way I could find,” he journaled. This was the beginning of his fascination with the abundant natural beauty across this continent.

Join us next week to find out more of what happened next . . . . or better yet, go exploring alone or with loved ones, and experience for yourself the expansive beauty of our great outdoors! HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA!

Gladly shared by Betty Hanselman

Gardener’s wife (& awe-inspired by this same natural beauty)