Wandering, Sheltering, Connecting: Art and Nature
Balanced on sandstone high above a powerful current in the forest, the sense of a separate existence dissolves. Bathing in awe, humbled and heartened, oneness emerges. ❂ Once while on a trail in the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Park, resting on a lookout, we heard and then saw a man climbing onto the path from the rocks below. He had been exploring off-path, was happily spent and yet keen to talk about his experience. Curious. I had never considered leaving the well-marked trail. “Aren’t you worried about getting lost?” I asked. He grinned. “Nah. I’m always right where I’m supposed to be. Can’t be lost, then — can I?” From this encounter and wilderness navigation books, I later gleaned that those who are rigidly focused on a destination may be less likely to notice changes in terrain, weather, or even their own physical condition. This makes them more vulnerable to getting lost or getting into trouble. Conversely, those who are wandering or exploring are more likely to be attuned to their surroundings and open …
Anahita in Love 