Friday, November 22, 2013

Nature: My Muse



Live in each season as it passes; breathe the air, drink the drink, taste the fruit, and resign yourself to the influence of the earth.
― Henry David Thoreau – Walden



 

     I don’t usually use this blog for personal musings but this night, I felt compelled to share one of my favorite places and my affinity with nature.  As a college English instructor, I was honored to accept a substitute position this fall teaching at a campus at which I normally don’t work. Other than the great challenge of teaching an 8:00 am class to college students and ferrying my children out the door at an early hour, it has been a blessing. I adore my students and feel that we have really made some excellent academic strides.
 
This post refers to the perk of my new post. Friday runs at my special place at sacred battlefield in Northern Virginia. I have spent hours and trekked many miles at this special place of battle. My convergence with nature in all seasons of the year has brought me immeasurable joy. I have had some wonderful experiences and runs along these natural trails. In each season, there are new images of life and nature that are forever imprinted in my heart. The travels are also imprinted with the lovely souls that run with me and share their communion.  I would never trade these times for a tennis bracelet or a trip to the mall. When I inhabit this space, I truly feel at home. I think Mr. Thoreau was a cutting edge thinker. In nature, we are in the zone and truly present in the moment. In this month of thankfulness, I am grateful for my special space in Virginia. I honestly feel that I am blooming where I am planted.