On Black Friday, I was feeling down. Ever since I was in high school I went skiing on Black Friday. This winter, the cold weather has been slow to start and to be quite honestly my mind has been elsewhere. After sending out a few last minute invitations that were inevitably declined, I decided I would go for a short solo overnight at the Wildcat Shelter along the Appalachian Trail in Warwick, NY.
I arrived just before dusk. I quickly set up my hammock and began collecting wood for a fire. I heard footsteps and turned around to see a father and son arriving in camp. We had a pleasant exchange of small talk before I went back to the fire and they set up camp. When I relocated my food to the bear box, they invited me to join them.
It dawned on me that things always seem simpler in the woods. I can feel lonely at times, but every time I go out backpacking I find people are innately kind and welcoming. I end up with a stronger feeling of community than I do in “the real world”.
Last weekend, I decided to try another solo trip. Again, I went to the Wildcat Shelter. This time a couple was there when I arrived. As it turned out they were part of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy just checking on the shelter. After a short exchange they wished me well and were on their way.
I thought, this is it. I am alone. I sat on a rock with a limited view of the sky and watched it get dark. As my eyes adjusted the stars began to pop. I felt still, not just of body but also of mind. It was peaceful. I was calm.
I started to get cold and turned in early. It wasn’t long before I was shivering. I was worried I would have to night hike out and go home. I didn’t want my first truly solo overnight to fail from temperature. I reached out to a couple of friends who offered me suggestions. The bottom line was move your body to warm up and then go back to bed. It was logical and I felt silly for having to ask, but 100 jumping jacks (or star jumps as one called it) and 30 lunges later I was snuggled up and warm in my hammock.
I only awoke one more time that evening. It was when I heard the howling of coyotes in the distance. I remember thinking to myself I sure hope they stay in the distance. I wondered how I would handle it if they didn’t. As the thought faded, I too faded back to sleep.
Again, things seemed simpler in the woods. Again, I did not feel alone. Physically I was, but the moment I had concern I had support. Even if I wasn’t concerned, I had someone keeping tabs on me from home to make sure I was safe. On this trip, I learned I don’t feel alone in the woods, even if I am.
As I hiked out under the morning sun, I felt revitalized. I would even say joyful.
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