I am the type of person that needs to be with myself a lot. It’s not that I don’t want to be around people, but that I spend a lot of time in my head trying to work things out. I like to analyze, internalize, and process interactions that I have. For me, this simply cannot be done with others around. When I’m with someone I’m usually thinking about them, what they are saying, feeling, or doing…and not focusing on myself. I admire people who can think about themselves and others simultaneously, but somehow I’ve been unable to de-compartmentalize these things. They are separate and I need time for both.
In the past month or so, I have gotten involved in hiking. This was actually one of my goals this year. I have always loved the idea of hiking, but I’ve never really done it. I used to be held back by the idea of not having anyone to go with as a reason not to do it…but I’ve come to realize not having anyone to go with is the reason to go. I need that space, that time, and that freeness to literally gasp with beauty as I round a corner of a hill to see bright purple wildflowers. (There’s too much pressure to not be blown away by natural occurrences around.) These are all things that I find more easily accessible alone. I’ve also realized that ‘trail people’ are my kind of people, usually excessively kind, amazed by beauty, and quiet. I’ve also been amazed how swiftly time moves in the forest, if I go every day there are consistent changes…day to day.
Here are some pictures from my recent excursions, mostly at Radnor Lake State Natural Area, which is by far the most beautiful place that I’ve found to hike around here. If you are in the Nashville area, you should go sometime.
Becca Kello 