I’m at Rocky Mountain National Park. It is paradise.
After six weeks in the motorhome, I’m finally able to slow down and revel in the enjoyment of this experience, rather than frantically plan for it.
Bierstadt Lake, possibly the most beautiful place I've ever been in my life. Thank you, Beth!
It has been a challenge, of course, but a few (unexpected) things that this experience is already teaching me:
That it is important to be generous and kind to other people, but just as important to know how to stop a stranger and ask, “Can you please help me?”
That I have a right to take up time and space. Being in a motorhome, I often feel as if I am imposing on other drivers. (A pretty miserable experience, but I’m very slow and careful through neighborhoods and drive the speed limit on highways.) I’ve been forced to become more keenly aware of the fact that we are sharing this world and that I don’t have to move quickly because someone else wants to. (She can move slowly, because I want to!)
That I can have moments when I feel frightened, insecure, lonely, or overwhelmed, but feeling those things doesn’t mean I’ve made the wrong decision.
That I can learn to be patient with myself, but also have to know how to remain patient with myself when others are not.
That people who are not out in the world think strangers are dangerous. People who are, think strangers are kind.
That when you are in a natural paradise, it is easy to understand that you already have everything you need.
That some things we learn the hard way, and some things we learn the fun way. This is definitely the fun way!
My first hikes out were more of an adventure than I’d planned, but that deserves it own post!
Take care,
Jennifer
11 Comments
great pic; i can almost hear the trickling water and smell the moist mountain air.
skip a few rocks for us!
Way to go! I grew up near New York City, so I was raised to keep to myself and of course was told “don’t talk to strangers.” I’m not sure this is good advice for kids. I know we’re only trying to keep them safe, but it plants a seed of doubt which makes them think that most people are naturally out to do harm to one another. I reality, nothing could be farther from the truth. My life changed when I realized that people are naturally social and like to help one another. And really, why shouldn’t they? It feels good to help other people. It makes us feel needed, wanted, and gives us a warm feeling inside. THAT is what comes naturally to people as a whole, not what we’re taught as children. Think about the last time you did something that someone was grateful for – even something as simple as giving directions. Wasn’t that a good feeling?
So, when you ask someone for help, and they help you, you are doing them a favor as well. You’re giving them that warm feeling we all crave that comes after we do something good.
I also love what you’re saying about taking your time on the road. Again, having been raised in a big city, I always feel like I have to get out of other people’s way. I still have trouble with this. If I’m going down the road, it’s hard for me to keep my speed consistent when I see someone come up behind me. Even without thinking about it, I find my foot automatically pressing a little harder on the gas. I’ll remember what you said here next time that happens. They can wait for ME. Thanks for reminding me of that.
I’m sure I’m not alone in saying that I would love to hear about your hikes. Stay safe out there in the wilderness!
Welcome to my favorite place, the Rocky Mountains, we are heading there mid-June for a “holiday” ourselves. The crisp fresh air, the cool mornings, and the settling nature noises make for a clear head and a fresh mind.
Enjoy your time there!
Cheers!
I have been following your blog from the beginning and would like to say I think you are doing the right thing. I am a truck driver and have seen many people out there going slow on the highway. Trust me, we would far rather see you doing the speed limit or less than flying along causing everyone else to fear for their lives. Drive to your abilities and all will go well. General tip concerning strangers…go with your gut. If you get a bad feeling, distance yourself. Don’t read books by their covers but use your gut and listen to it. If you didn’t have those feelings of insecurity and question what you are doing, I would worry. But having moments of trepidation should be natural when doing something different. I think that means you will be sensible and cautious. Have fun, keep us informed, use your head, and enjoy your new life. Oh, keep those pics coming too.
RMNP is awesome. I’ll be heading up to Bear lake (just a little farther up the road from Bierstadt Lake) in the morning to do some spring time photography. Enjoy your time there!
“That I can learn to be patient with myself, but also have to know how to remain patient with myself when others are not.”
“That people who are not out in the world think strangers are dangerous. People who are, think strangers are kind.”
We needed to be away from the insanity of our careers and get into the rhythm of the road to understand these statements. You are learning quickly. Save and happy travels. That is what it is all about.
I am so glad you took the Bierstadt hike and so glad that you think it is beautiaful too. I can’t wait until you post more about your hikes. I just love RMNP. I won’t be able to go this summer, but your great photo is very appreciated.
I really look forward to “following” you on your great trip.
So glad you are doing well. Wish I could take my wife to see the Rockies. Maybe in a couple of years. Have a saft trip-life is a trip. Ed
I’ve got to do this, get it out of my head and move on. I made the decision to go RV full time and went looking for blogs of people in my same position. I found your blog and was SO excited. You are my age and have battles with brain problems just like me. You have trouble with people and trust just like me. You are going out on your adventure for many reasons. Like me, one of your goals, is to find Peace and find yourself a little. You also had some debt that you needed to get rid of before you could go. What I couldn’t figure out was how you were funding it all. Once I figured it out I was livid!! SO JEALOUS! BIG GREEN MONSTER! The fact that you are cute only fed the Monster more. But I couldn’t stay away. Your writing is funny, smart, and interesting. Your words ring true to me.
I am leaving this comment to let the Monster go, and wish you well. We all have our own paths and I am on mine. I will be following every word and sending my best hopes and positive energy to you. You cross my mind often. I will be heading out in Feb 2012 and will be learning my own lessons. I will learn from your experience now. Take care, and be gentle with yourself.
Katie
(I haven’t found a way to EM people that comment so I’ll reply here). Hey Jennifer. Thanks for the comment on my blog :0) Link to it is fine, thanks for checking.
Brilliant! I’m going to print that list out and tape it to my windshield.