Getting Back to Nature

[image from: http://eartheasy.com/bookreview_Last_Child.jpg]

During my undergraduate career, Richard Louv's "Last Child in the Woods," was continuously recommended as a must read for environmentalists. It wasn't until now that I finally found a copy at the library and cracked open the spine, and started reading. I am very grateful that I did start reading it, as it has been very insightful so far and makes me realize why I did a degree in Environmental Studies in the first place.

Over the past few months, I have been wondering about my life choices and whether or not I made the right ones, as I am amidst the world of the unemployed. The world where self-deprecation, self-pity and depression are rampant.

Today, I decided to make my connection to nature stronger by venturing out for a hike on my own. I wish I did things like this more often, and really I should. I proclaim to be a nature lover and have led canoe trips for many-many summers, but I still sometimes find the pull of the television and computer keeping me indoors.

Well, today I went hiking, and I am glad that I did. My senses were rejuvenated. I didn't need to take the nap that I thought I would- since I was awake since 6am with no particular agenda. I was inspired with the idea of volunteering to run outdoor programming for local schools. And many other ideas to help use my time more meaningfully, including going for a hike everyday (whether alone or with friends).

Speaking about living a meaningful life, despite having an amazing walk and being so happy that I was taking it, the longer I walked, the stronger this nagging sensation in my chest kept on saying, "Shouldn't I get back so I can apply to more jobs, don't I need to be doing this..." My everlasting mantra to do better kept on ticking.

One thing that I have learned from Richard Louv is that prioritizing nature in our lives is difficult, but necessary. I am going to commit myself to further connecting to nature in my urban environment by going for a hike daily, ran or shine.

This goal may be a little too optimistic, but it is better to hope for more than to expect less, right?

I hope that you get out hiking yourself!


Taking a hike for now,

Susannah

(Beautiful hiking in Minnesota, 2012)