Life’s journeys do not just occur when we leave the country
and cross the ocean but also in our own backyard. I spent Saturday morning,
early afternoon hiking through Jefferson Memorial Forest enjoying nature and
reflecting on life. Upon coming across a little stream trickling through the woods,
it reminded me how much we get absorbed into our daily 1st world
living. We are surrounded by buildings, asphalt, technology, and other manmade
things that seem to complicate our lives more than simplify them. Out in the
forest, we can slow down, relax, embrace the peacefulness, and engage in pleasant
dialogue with our neighbors.
The forest community provides a cultural experience in
itself. While sitting watching the water flow listening to the cicadas and
birds, many individuals crossed my path from different walks of life. You find
individuals out alone or with their dogs. Some enjoy running the trails while
others take a very leisurely stroll. The forest is not for only the young or
the old but for all. Alongside the people, the creatures of the forest bring
variety. Some must be taken seriously as a snake bite would not be good, but
others like butterflies provide great beauty and no harm. If we truly engage in
the experience, we can learn how to survive in the forest by finding food,
water, medicine, and shelter. Similar to some 3rd world experiences,
a restroom is not readily available at all times. One might experience the
restroom in the bush or the hole in the ground.
These are just a few ways that one gains new perspectives on
life from the backyard. It changes our perspectives on life: here and across
the world; on the past, today, and for the future; from different folks. May
you on your next journey stop, listen, and engage in the world around you at
that very moment. You do not have to go far. You just have to open your mind
and experience the moment without distractions of the manmade world.
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