Q: You sometimes speak about Nature as though it were a person, at other times as though it were a thing.
A: Nature is neither a person or a thing.
Q: Can science uncover the reality of Nature? I am confused on this matter. It seems that as scientists learn more about the functioning of Nature their faith in materialism and reductionism grows, yet overall they seem to be growing more holistic. How can this be?
A: Scientists do not go anywhere near far enough! This point you raise is the crux of the matter - a koan. Understand it, and you understand all. The reality of the material world cannot be disputed, nor the essential Oneness of all things. Both are Truths and join in one. When you can join them, together with the core of your being, there will be no more confusion.