Agonotheta

Paradise

August 03, 2004

Last weekend, I went camping with my family and some friends. Actually, they went camping, I just met up with them for one night of their excursion.

At night, as everyone was drinking and having a good time I became pretty thoughtful, which is odd for me during libations. I usually become more talkative and outspoken. I was brooding about several things, which I don't want to talk about at this time. I think I probably drank too much too fast and thus got tired quickly. I stumbled back to my tent and threw myself into my sleeping bag. Sensing my mood, my sister, whom I'm very close with, came to talk with me before I fell asleep in my tent. I don't remember everything we spoke of, but I know it was comforting and even concluded with some crying from both of us.

I fell asleep with a light and carefree heart.

My slumber was disturbed the next morning very early by a playful chipmunk running around on top of my chest. (My tent-mate had forgotten to zip up the door.) I lay there in the peaceful quietude of the deciduous and decided to get up and go for a slow run.

I set out up the road taken to arrive at the campsite and saw a spectacular view of mountains, valleys, streams, and rivers. Aspens and pine. Livestock and serpent.

As I run, I realized that I was running through the closest thing to paradise that I could imagine. Miles and miles, relatively untouched by man. Breathing in the cool fresh air rejuvenated not only my body but my being. It felt cleansing and inspiring. It was amazing.

I ran for about 45 minutes and arrived back to camp with more energy than when I left. Cleansed emotionally and energized physically.

If only every run could be this same way!