[at-l] And now, a scenic break..........

[tmcginnis@ucclan.state.in.us (Thomas McGinnis)]

     ...
     
     But that, of course -- the disconnection from today and the 
     reconnection to ancient, unplugged instincts -- is the reason you're 
     there. To explore unknown territory, the way a cat will when the door 
     opens to the little-used attic or basement. Just to get a good look 
     around.
     
     And it's those views that entice us back. The spectacular ones that 
     unfold like cinema, when you suddenly round a bend and the green 
     curtains open, revealing waves of mountains to the horizon, ghostly 
     cumulus clouds, the sweep of valley, a roiling waterfall. And the more 
     intimate ones, too, of heron perched on rock, purple and yellow 
     wildflowers in the grass, a turtle meandering midpath, a stand of 
     aspen aging golden. No wonder our ancestors wandered. There was so 
     much to see.
     
     Trail views are earned, not given. You've proven your commitment 
     through sweat and tired hamstrings, and the sight is sweeter for the 
     effort. Yes, you can enjoy some great panoramas from your car window. 
     But they don't _belong_ to you.
     
     It's not surprising, then, that the bond between <the self-propelled 
     travelor> and landscape seems mystical, a connection to the infinite. 
     We travel ancient paths, ones our progeny will inherit. Landforms seem 
     eternal, infused with spirit. Sacred ground.
     
     ...
     
     For now, then -- while you can, where you can -- enjoy the passage of 
     dirt beneath you feet. Surround yourself in green. Sweat the good 
     bullet. Be alert. Drink in the pastoral, the arboreal, the mythical 
     views. And by all means, do not resist the urge to break out in song.
     
     THE END.
     Unceremoniously lifted from the October RUNNER'S WORLD; "The Trail 
     Less Traveled" by Don Kardong (A US Olympic Marathoner). So why, 
     indeed, would someone want to sully the AT by running on it?
     
     
     
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