Where the earth kisses the sky

A narrative about conquering your fears, but also slowing down and focusing on what truly matters in life.

The forest felt different, desolatory and somehow dark.

I hiked my way up strawberry rock alone yesterday. My first solo mission. I had no map, no idea where I was going, and no one to laugh off the body bag I saw in my first mile of hiking.

I >> WALKED << through life.

I followed the trail and when it came to many different forks I chose the one that seemed to ascend more. I got lost. I did not know what I was looking for and things didn't seem right.I wanted to turn around many times [especially after seeing the full body bag] and run back to my safe haven.

However, something inside told me to be brave and keep pushing forward. This was so different and unlike me. I do not even think it was a voice telling me. My feet just kept going in the direction that scared me the most, like my body knew what I needed more than I did.

You can only find something after you have lost it. I was lost; physically, emotionally, and mentally. The hike mirrored my life in a way I never realized it could.

Being alone with no map, direction or guide in this big world forces you to figure it out on your own.

The way I have learned to figure out the way through this thing called life is to talk to people, make connections, and learn. So of course, this is my first instinct on the trail. I made friends. We got to know each other. They had a map. Thank you for bringing them along and not letting me get lost or kidnapped in the woods.

I finally made it to the top where there was a view unlike any view. I sat down with my feet dangling off the front face of the rock.

I stared out across the trees towards the ocean, my perch on the rock essentially a ledge over the forest.

I loved the sensation of feeling taller than the trees, of seeing their canopy from above, as a bird would. The sight of it eased my sense of worry of the state of my safety and maze of the trail back.

I >> found <<

I was brave. I can do this. I did this. I moved forward even though there was no plan or direction. I can do anything I set my mind to. I am proud.

Just remember to > walk, < don't run, through life.