In a few days, I will be leaving the little log cabin in the mountains to adventure back east for a while. While I am excited about this next phase of life, I find myself gazing at all the natural beauty I have enjoyed for the past 20 months and realize that I will really really miss this place.
The decision to move was made months ago, I knew in my heart it was time for a change. I also knew leaving would not be easy. Living in such a natural paradise, surrounded by mountains, lakes, rivers and wild critters has been one of my life’s dreams. And yet I realized that to achieve some of my other dreams I had to courageously choose to leave the wilderness and to follow my heart elsewhere.
As the departure date approaches I find myself casting longing looks at all the stunning scenery. I try to absorb as many mental pictures as possible, recording the natural energy deep within. And as if Mother Nature could sense my sorrow, I have been blessed with the finest regalia of colours. The autumn leaves have been spectacular this year. Even the Northern Lights have been out on display, dancing late at night.
The bright bursts of colourful fall leaves, contrasted against the dreary, rainy skies really describes the bitter sweetness I feel about moving away from here. As I take longing last looks at the beautiful natural surroundings, I must admit to feelings of profound gratitude for the gift I have given myself, the privilege of living alone in the wilderness.
And as I etch these memories deep upon my soul, I wonder … what impact have I left on the natural world around me, what etchings will I leave on nature?
Thanks to everyone who made my time in the Bridge River Valley a very very special and rewarding experience.
October 14, 2012
Once you get over the culture shock you will enjoy your new surroundings. Jumping into a community such as Stratford will ease the shock. You will be welcomed back by many.
October 14, 2012
Thanks for the encouragement!
October 15, 2012
Carol I certainly have missed our once in a while drinkies and discussions on life. I am so proud of you and your accomplishments – and really look forward to seeing you upon your return. I have moved as well but my home number is the same. Safe travels!!!
October 14, 2012
I have enjoyed each of your posts. What a change you have gone through. I am writing this from an inn in Wolfville, Nova Scotia .
October 14, 2012
I bet the colours are spectacular there as well … see you soon!
October 14, 2012
Carol, I am going to miss all the beautifull pictures and the amazing stories you have shared with us from your home in BC. But I look forward to your stories and pictures when you settle back in the East. Safe journey.
October 14, 2012
Thanks Joe … yes life is a journey wherever I go. Looking forward to connecting again.
October 14, 2012
Change is the rhyme of life. May I welcome you back to the East with one of David Whyte’s poems from his new book – Pilgrim? I look forward to seeing you soon.
FINISTERRE
The road in the end taking the path the sun had taken,
into the western sea, and the moon rising behind you
as you stood where ground turned to ocean: no way
to your future now but the way your shadow could take,
walking before you across water, going where shadows go,
no way to make sense of a world that wouldn’t let you pass
except to call an end to the way you had come,
to take out each frayed letter you brought
and light their illumined corners, and to read
them as they drifted through the western light;
to empty your bags; to sort this and to leave that;
to promise what you needed to promise all along,
and to abandon the shoes that had brought you here
right at the water’s edge, not because you had given up
but because now, you would find a different way to tread,
and because, through it all, part of you could still walk on,
no matter how, over the waves.
– David Whyte
October 14, 2012
Thanks for this reflective poem … I have just finished packing and noted that I am leaving with less. Keep well Veronica.
October 15, 2012
Carol,
I wish you well on your journey. You are a true treasure, my friend.
Alice
October 15, 2012
Thank you Alice – I appreciate your kind words.
October 15, 2012
Carol I hope you keep writing when you return too Ontario. Its good to be alive & retired.
David
October 15, 2012
Congratulations on retirement!!