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Why Wildness?

He challenged us to answer, “Why wildness?” so my brain immediately circled to, “what is wild?” Wild is an adjective, a noun, but not so easily a verb. What is wild? The wail of a loon? Is the turkey vulture soaring overhead any wilder than the goldfinch at the feeder? Is bear more wild than butterfly? Is a trillium along the trail more wild than the dogwood planted in our yard? I make a list of things I consider “wild.” Bears make the list. Stormy weather. Death angel mushrooms. Poison ivy. For me, “wildness” seems to contain an element of potential danger from elements and living beings over which I have no control, different than mere “nature.” Sitting safely in my yard–enjoying birds and native plants–there is a sense of control. Being in a place I consider “wild,” though, sharpens all my senses, heightens my awareness, makes me feel more alive. Wildness humbles me. I think that’s my answer to the question “why wildness.” What’s your answer? ~K