Catherine Buttner
Although I was looking forward to this particular lecture because it would be a nice change of scenery from the typical classroom setting, I was kind of flustered when I arrived at the trail. This was because I initially drove to the wrong location on the trail, so I was almost late. I was relieved when I was finally able to find the rest of the group and I quickly calmed down. The first thing I noticed was how sunny it was so I was eager to get out on the trail and enjoy the weather.
As other students noted, the statue seemed out-of-place to me, even though it was interesting. Statues tend to give off a cold, monumental vibe which was a strong contrast to the warm, inviting environment of the trail. I was impressed with how Dr. Redick was so knowledgeable about the various species of plants that were on the trail. If I had been on the trail by myself I might not have even noticed those plants. At the beginning of the class, I noticed how everyone's "energy" was different from how it normally is. Everyone seemed so peaceful and upbeat and spiritually connected to nature. It really amazes me how nature is powerful enough to completely change people's moods.
As we progressed deeper into the trail, I found myself losing sight of everything that I was stressed about previously. Before I arrived at the trail I was worried about some of my classes and the high number of papers I had that were due at the same time. Those concerns seemed to drift away and I started to have the "flow" experience. It was a pretty powerful thing. I wasn't spaced out but it was like a different state of mind. I was completely engrossed in what I was doing- absorbing the stillness of nature. After the class ended I walked around on my own for a while, and I could hear God reminding me of his love for nature and how he put it here for us to enjoy it. I can see how the Noland Trail could represent a spiritual journey or a sacred place to some people. The sacred place doesn't have to be anywhere specific, it could be anywhere. When it was time to go, I didn't want to leave because I didn't want to return to normalcy. I wish I'd had more time to enjoy the trail. I will probably go back there soon.
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