Lost (NJ14)


Lost (NJ14)

For my final nature journal, I wanted to do something a little bit different. Instead of having a predetermined location in mind, and writing about my experience at that spot, I decided to simply step out into nature and reflect on my journey of this semester from start to finish.

After walking up bright and early this morning, I opened my front door and the sun's rays hit me like a sharp spotlight from the sky. I could not spot a single cloud. I did not have anywhere specific to go, but I began walking. I noticed a brilliantly red cardinal, perched peacefully on a tree branch above my head. I saw an ant colony, with thousands of ants carrying small pieces of leaves to bring into their underground homes. I witnessed a group of dandelions in my front lawn, dancing in the wind. Nature has an endless amount of breathe-taking aspects to it, and this morning I got to experience just a few.

Before this class, I was constantly fixated on the end result. This could mean getting the best grades, securing a respectable internship, or even being a good friend or brother. I never bothered to worry about how I got there, but rather whether or not the goal was achieved. From my exposure to this class, I have come to realize that I need to learn to appreciate the journey just as much as the destination. Just as Thoreau, who went to live deliberately in the woods. He was not focused on the end result, of surviving and returning to civilization, but instead on living deeply and appreciating the intricate beauty of nature. For me personally, I need to stop obsessing over the final product and learn to take a step back and take a more holistic approach. I believe by doing this, I will be able to grow more as a person and overall have a more positive outlook on life.

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