Mental detoxification

Sometimes the only thing standing between me and complete despondency is the mountain.

I try to stay informed about the globe’s pressing issues—homelessness, hunger, war, politics, environment, media, government, healthcare, torture, death. The list of woes is depressing and endless. Those who must confront and report suffering and tragedy every day must surely be made of steel. Though I sometimes wish I were, I am not made of steel. I am more a fragile flower and, when buried under humanity’s toxic waste and cut off from nature’s largesse, I wither very quickly.

For me, the correlation between physical and mental energy is 1:1. When I’m feeling mentally a bit low, I can pull myself up by communing with the birds, bugs and bees. So, rather than write or read the paper today, I hiked Waldo Canyon!

In case you find yourself in Colorado Springs, here’s some info about the hike:
Heading west on Highway 24, you’ll find the trailhead on the right side just past the Manitou Springs exit. The Waldo Canyon loop is seven miles of easy trekking and amazing views. The scenery, especially the view of Pikes Peak, is the best reason to do this hike. In my opinion, seven miles of easy hiking is about four miles too many. I like to earn my relaxation with a couple miles of sheer hellish exertion.

I suppose if I were a runner—and there were quite a few of them beginning to train for the Pikes Peak Ascent—I might feel differently. Nonetheless, the cool weather, beautiful vistas, and proximity to the serious runner crowd made for an excellent morning!

Please don’t tell me what world news I’ve missed. Let me just enjoy my tired muscles and slightly sunburned shoulders until I’ve finished sorting my photos. The world can wait a few more minutes.