Alone
Monday’s rain was intense, and it seemed as if it would never end, but it did, leaving behind much damage. There were reports of waterspouts and tornadoes, flooding and damaged homes, etc. My neighborhood was spared.
Although, Tuesday I hiked a few of our community trails (Stony Run and Jones Falls) and noticed down trees. What was most disturbing was witnessing the pollution from the sewage leak from a few days ago, which made its way to the Stony Run stream. The water is murky, there are dead minnows and it smells, and the stench is only going to get worse, especially as the heat intensifies.
As reported, damage from the sewage could cost as much as $70,000. Sadly, it appears some of our local politicians are playing passive/aggressive about what I consider disastrous, but I digress.
All need to get on board about environmental issues. We must be in constant thought about clean air and water, and food. If we contaminate or destroy our resources, we kill ourselves. It’s that simple. We must also be concerned about future generations. I am more often than not hopeful for our future, even when I see the numbers of self-absorbed, egotistical people growing (another point to digress on because if you watch television or are online, you get my point). The bottom line, I care and you should too.
I can only wallow in sadness for so long, because there is always something to be happy about, and ultimately that’s where our focus must be (sometimes easier said than done).
The day really was golden with blue sky, sunshine and cool breezes, but by early afternoon the humidity set in – still, I thrived in what I believe was a fantastic day. A walk (hike) after a storm is soothing to my soul. Everything appears brighter, greener, lush and healthier. There are a variety of flowers blooming on the trails, and I’m seeing more and more butterflies, birds and other wildlife. The numbers of people using our local parks, streams, etc., are growing. It’s heartwarming (not too sound too mushy).
The best part about this fabulous excursion was I did it alone. I cherish my walks with friends, but there are times when it pays to walk alone. Those moments are golden too, and I can’t get enough of “me” time. Contemplate that for you. It’s a journey you take with yourself, which can help anyone sort out their heart, mind and the world around them, but you must be present in the moment.
Of course, other advantages for walking – stress relief, weight loss and the sheer joy of being in nature. As for walking alone, it’s sometimes easier to do because not everyone can go the distance. I like to challenge myself with hills and miles. There are times when I don’t feel like talking (that will shock some of my friends) or listen, but prefer to zone out. And there are periods when misery doesn’t like company, or shall I say, more misery. However, if I had a pet peeve it would be that so many like to stop – eat, drink and restroom (a bit too often for my taste). This can ruin the momentum. (For those who might read this, and find themselves insulted, please don’t slip into a delusional/paranoid state of thought. I cherish my walks with all of you – I really do, but walking alone is equally important. Give it a try!)
If you get anything from this post allow it to be this… Make time for yourself. I mean serious alone time. No walking tours, bus trips, television, computer, phone, etc. Just you! Read, write, contemplate, etc.
Time is a gift you give to yourself. Spend it wisely and feel refreshed and mentally re-set. It’s definitely going to improve your outlook, self-esteem and confidence. Cheers! – paerki
Related Posts: Make Time, Go Outside And Play, Arbor Day, Earth (Embrace & Protect), A Better Tomorrow, My Inspiration, You Have The Power, Paulisms, Character, God Worthy, Plan B, Here's To Making Better Choices, 30 and 30, Picturesque Wyman Park, National Walking Day, Local Parks Additional Photos: After The Rain
Although, Tuesday I hiked a few of our community trails (Stony Run and Jones Falls) and noticed down trees. What was most disturbing was witnessing the pollution from the sewage leak from a few days ago, which made its way to the Stony Run stream. The water is murky, there are dead minnows and it smells, and the stench is only going to get worse, especially as the heat intensifies.
As reported, damage from the sewage could cost as much as $70,000. Sadly, it appears some of our local politicians are playing passive/aggressive about what I consider disastrous, but I digress.
All need to get on board about environmental issues. We must be in constant thought about clean air and water, and food. If we contaminate or destroy our resources, we kill ourselves. It’s that simple. We must also be concerned about future generations. I am more often than not hopeful for our future, even when I see the numbers of self-absorbed, egotistical people growing (another point to digress on because if you watch television or are online, you get my point). The bottom line, I care and you should too.
I can only wallow in sadness for so long, because there is always something to be happy about, and ultimately that’s where our focus must be (sometimes easier said than done).
The day really was golden with blue sky, sunshine and cool breezes, but by early afternoon the humidity set in – still, I thrived in what I believe was a fantastic day. A walk (hike) after a storm is soothing to my soul. Everything appears brighter, greener, lush and healthier. There are a variety of flowers blooming on the trails, and I’m seeing more and more butterflies, birds and other wildlife. The numbers of people using our local parks, streams, etc., are growing. It’s heartwarming (not too sound too mushy).
The best part about this fabulous excursion was I did it alone. I cherish my walks with friends, but there are times when it pays to walk alone. Those moments are golden too, and I can’t get enough of “me” time. Contemplate that for you. It’s a journey you take with yourself, which can help anyone sort out their heart, mind and the world around them, but you must be present in the moment.
Of course, other advantages for walking – stress relief, weight loss and the sheer joy of being in nature. As for walking alone, it’s sometimes easier to do because not everyone can go the distance. I like to challenge myself with hills and miles. There are times when I don’t feel like talking (that will shock some of my friends) or listen, but prefer to zone out. And there are periods when misery doesn’t like company, or shall I say, more misery. However, if I had a pet peeve it would be that so many like to stop – eat, drink and restroom (a bit too often for my taste). This can ruin the momentum. (For those who might read this, and find themselves insulted, please don’t slip into a delusional/paranoid state of thought. I cherish my walks with all of you – I really do, but walking alone is equally important. Give it a try!)
If you get anything from this post allow it to be this… Make time for yourself. I mean serious alone time. No walking tours, bus trips, television, computer, phone, etc. Just you! Read, write, contemplate, etc.
Time is a gift you give to yourself. Spend it wisely and feel refreshed and mentally re-set. It’s definitely going to improve your outlook, self-esteem and confidence. Cheers! – paerki
Related Posts: Make Time, Go Outside And Play, Arbor Day, Earth (Embrace & Protect), A Better Tomorrow, My Inspiration, You Have The Power, Paulisms, Character, God Worthy, Plan B, Here's To Making Better Choices, 30 and 30, Picturesque Wyman Park, National Walking Day, Local Parks Additional Photos: After The Rain