First, this is something that I need to say. Whispers in the Wilderness by Erik Stensland was a gift to me early on in my grieving process. Over the last handful of years it has served many purposes. Erik Stensland is a photographer, writer and what seems to me an adventurer. I do not know Mr. Stensland, although one day I would love to meet him. Journey Authentically does not have any agreement in any way to promote his books. This book has impacted me greatly and I think it has the potential to impact others. 

The core of me wants to be outside in the mountains, on a river or just sitting enjoying the beauty of nature. That isn't always an option due to the responsibilities of day to day life. Another hindrance is that my grief has made me exceptionally melancholic at times. My entire being can want to do something and I end up making the decision to not do anything. Grief shows up differently depending on the day which makes me show up and act differently. I wish that wasn’t the case and after many years of trying to be someone I am not. It is freeing to accept the self and my tendencies.

Back to the book. One of the most enjoyable parts about Whispers in the Wilderness is the ways that the reader can engage with it. The pictures in this book are absolutely breathtaking. I would gaze into the pictures and soak in the nature that I was not in but longed for. I would also sit contemplating how there can be such beauty and ugliness in the world all at the same time. The photographs allowed me to escape to a place in my mind when it needed a break from all that would consume it during typical days. It was a different outlet than what I was used to and since have grown to love.

The journey of grief has been long and has had many ups and downs to it. This is the first time that I have been able to voice the dynamic of enjoying the beauty that the world has to offer and moments later being disgusted with it. At times looking at the beautiful nature photography became difficult because there was so much anger and darkness within that I would turn to Erik’s words. The way that Erik tells stories and is vulnerable in short bites can give relief to the soul. The reader is able to engage with the deep wisdom and experience in his words. The way that grief would hijack my mind at times it was nice to have pictures and small bites of literature to enjoy. The reader can sit for any length of time no matter how long or short engrossed in the photographs or reading.  

When my life needed the most flexibility this book gave it to me. It felt like acceptance within these pages during a time when it was hard to find. The versatility of this book allows it to be read by anyone at any stage of life. I am positive that I will return to this book again and again, and each time will glean something new.