Twenty life lessons from the trail

Traveling in a chosen mode at a pace that allows us to immerse ourselves in the surrounding environment far surpasses what we might experience as a passerby in a speeding car. In addition to the scenery, serenity, stimulation, and the intrinsic rewards that come with walking, hiking, riding, and climbing, the pathway uniquely presents life “lessons.” The trail can be a great teacher if we allow ourselves to reflect on the nature of our experience. In fact, the trail is a perfect metaphor for life itself.

That is the opening paragraph from "Twenty life lessons from the trail,” by Dr. Ronald R. Bearwald. This highly philosophical article appears in the Spring 2010 issue of American Trails Magazine.

As the title implies, the article offers 20 lessons we as hikers can take from the trail, and apply to our overall lives.

"The trail has been, and will continue to be a great teacher."

It's a great read - very thought provoking. Please click here to check it out.



Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, hiking gear store, and more.