End O' Summer

Has it really been 4 months since last I wrote a blog post?? And what’s that you say…it’s SEPTEMBER??? The summer has flown by, sentiments stated and felt by many folks out there, I am quite sure. But in the end, once all the marks have been tallied up, it’s been a wonderful summer. It’s been filled with meeting new people, learning new things and exploring the surrounding wilderness as much as possible. I’m not going to lie…I’ve been fortunate to have been “stationed” up in the High Sierras, right off the John Muir Trail and Pacific Crest Trail, and 5 miles from Mono Hot Springs. Life could certainly be far worse.

How does one go about telling of the experiences of such a large amount of time? Quite simply…you don’t. I could not give justice to my summer in such few words. But I would like to mention something - a theme more than anything. Generosity seemed to flow out of almost every person that has camped up here this summer. Maybe it’s because people are coming up here on vacation and are away from work, so this leads them to a euphoric feeling that seems to permeate every conversation and action. Sure, some of this generosity has roots in the fact that some campers didn’t want to transport any additional stuff back to their home, so I was the natural choice for such bounty. Yet still I was impressed by the general goodwill and generosity that most people exhibited. People leaving me fresh fruit and vegetables, beers, breads, etc. One camper even left me a cooler that he thought I could use. I was simply astounded by the actions of these people. Now I am not saying that everyone was this kind, considerate and goodwill-towards-all-ish. I certainly had those individuals that trashed the campsite, were loud and rude to fellow campers, and were generally disrespectful of the environment. And of course these folks stick out in the mind. Yet if you were to actually do the math, those of the Generous disposition would far outnumber those of the This Land Is Mine To Abuse attitude. And I am very thankful of this fact.

As the summer blends into the cooler weather of fall, I sit here with memories coming to the surface. All the miles of backpacking and hiking, the people I met, the friends I’ve made, the conversations I’ve had. It’s been an amazing summer filled with experiences and relaxation. And where will my adventure take me next? What is my plan? I think I will rely somewhat on the road to guide me on my way. After all, if you plan things too rigidly, you may miss out on the little things that life throws out to you. And that would be a shame to miss…