Drew Carpenter - The Noland Trail

When our class visited the Noland trail, it was the first time I had been there since coming to CNU in the fall. The first thing I noticed about the experience was the beauty of the trail and surrounding areas. Particularly looking out on the lake that the trail wraps around. During my time contemplating after our class discussion, I saw a white swan in the center of the lake. Contrasted against the dark water and graying sky, the swan reminded me of the beauty that can be seen even during dark times. Specifically in places of nature where liminality is thin, it is easy to embrace the spiritual presence that surrounds sacred places.