And into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul
-John Muir
There’s a small park not far from my home where I escape to walk my dogs, think, and enjoy nature.
I named this little oasis “Grackle Hill” after the feisty birds that populate the trees, screeching at me as they defend their territory and nests.
During the height of the COVID pandemic, Grackle Hill became a refuge of sorts. In mornings and late afternoons the dogs and I would enjoy the cool grass, tree shade, soft breeze, and fresh air.
Sometimes, I’d bring a small journal to write and sketch, but usually I’d simply enjoy the exercise and sense of freedom. Occasionally, I’d encounter other dog walkers, but mostly I had Grackle Hill to myself.
On days that my wife (a hospice nurse) works, I often send her photos and short videos of my outings to enjoy on her breaks. So that she can vicariously experience a bit of Grackle Hill’s simple charm and restorative magic.
Life is a little harder these days. Yes, the COVID pandemic has waned a bit and we have some of our freedom back. But now there is war in Ukraine, inflation, crime, horrific gun violence, drought in the Southwest, deepening partisanship, and a sense of foreboding.
Where do you go to escape the madness?
Where is your Grackle Hill?
Refuge of my weary soul
My wife and I have a few trips planned in the Fall.
A visit to Scotland and the following month Italy. The trips were supposed to happen two years ago, but the pandemic had other plans.
While we look forward to our travels, a part of me prefers the simplicity of Grackle Hill. Such refuges cost nothing, are stress-free to visit, and help me forget my troubles and reconnect with my soul.
Dear refuge of my weary soul,
On thee, when sorrows rise,
On thee, when waves of trouble roll,
My fainting hope relies.
― Anne Steele
The outdoors are always a good bet, but sometimes you can find wonderful and inexpensive venues inside.
Like the Bellagio Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.
I know, that sounds expensive. But not if you visit their Conservatory and Botanical Garden, which is a free attraction featuring rotating, elaborate, seasonal displays changed five times per year.
The current June 2022 theme is titled, “Jungle of Dreams.” The displays take a team of over 80 people one week to assemble. They’re quite beautiful. My wife and I visited recently, and it was a lovely experience.
We marveled at the detail of the bird displays. The poses and feathers looked incredibly real.
The conservatory was moderately full of people, which still feels strange to me after the long stretch of COVID hibernation. I tried to keep my distance but otherwise was fully immersed in the experience and my photography.
After our visit, we popped next door to the Capital Grille for a light snack. My wife enjoyed a craft cocktail, which naturally I had to photograph.
It’s easy to stay home and not visit parks, gardens, and free or affordable local attractions. But why prioritize convenience or laziness over new and restorative experiences?
After the pandemic, a lot of people are still wary to go out. But doing so is a great way to escape all the chatter in your mind and lift your spirits.
It’s in the stillness that you will find restoration
Last month my wife and I visited a park in Boulder City, Nevada to watch the wild rams graze on the lawn and enjoy the Lake Mead breeze and sunshine. The rams were somewhat used to people and allowed me to get fairly close with my camera.
I took photos of visitors taking selfies and my wife ensconced on a park bench. Wildlife, the outdoors, and simple people-watching are a great antidote to blinking screens and the vicissitudes of life.
History has taught us that difficult times come and go. People in the past survived world wars, plagues, dustbowl droughts, crime, and more.
If we are to sustain our resiliency, getting out in the fresh air and experiencing simple pleasures can help.
When you hurt, be still! When you’re restless, be still! When you feel lost, be still! It’s in the stillness that you will find restoration, peace, and ultimately find yourself. — Earl Maree
My dog walks at Grackle Hill, and visits with my wife to gardens and grazing areas for wild rams, lift my spirit and calm my mind.
How about you?
Where can you go to lose your mind, find your soul, and restore your resiliency? It doesn’t have to cost money, and it doesn’t have to be fancy.
It might be a simple backyard garden, a local park, a basketball court, or your local library. Wherever it is, take advantage of it.
Life is meant to be lived, not endured.
Before you go
I’m John P. Weiss. I draw cartoons, take pictures, and write elegant essays about life. To follow my work, check out the Saturday Letter here.
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This post was previously published on Medium.com.
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All photos by John P. Weiss