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Breathe Quote by Wallace Stegner

“What is such a resource worth? Anything it costs. If we never hike it or step into its shade, if we only drive by occasionally and see the textures of green mountainside change under wind and sun, or the fog move soft feathers down the gulches, or the last sunset on the continent redden the sky…” quote by Wallace Stegner
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“What is such a resource worth? Anything it costs. If we never hike it or step into its shade, if we only drive by occasionally and see the textures of green mountainside change under wind and sun, or the fog move soft feathers down the gulches, or the last sunset on the continent redden the sky beyond the ridge, we have our money's worth. We have been too efficient at destruction; we have left our souls too little space to breathe in. Every green natural place we save saves a fragment of our sanity and gives us a little more hope that we have a future.”

Wallace Stegner

About This Quote

Source Essay: “The Value of Wilderness,” 1974

Nature’s worth is measured by its ability to restore our spirit and provide hope, not by monetary cost.

In simple terms: Nature restores us and gives hope.

Key Takeaway

Protect natural spaces for mental health.

Themes

environment well‑being conservation

Mood

reflective hopeful urgent

Type

environmental philosophical

When to use this quote

  • urban planning
  • mental health care
  • policy making
  • education
  • tourism

Key Concepts

eco‑psychology spiritual renewal

Questions to Reflect On

  • What personal actions can you take to protect nature?
  • How does nature influence your mental health?
A Different Perspective

Economic pressures often prioritize development over preservation.

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