What makes nature's voice so compelling?... In the symphony of the storm, I heard a call from the heart of the cosmos. I wanted to turn into an areca tree or become a branch bending in the wind. I wanted to be a bird testing the strength of its wings against the wind. I wanted to run outside in the rain and scream, dance, whirl around, laugh, and cry. But I didn't dare. I feared my mother's scolding. So instead I sang for all I was worth.
— Thich Nhat Hanh, Fragrant Palm Leaves