I Had to go

I miss you already. You all were the best family that anyone could have. Mom and Dad, you didn’t squeeze me to tight or let me have too many liberties. As parents, you were like baby bear, just right. My siblings, I already miss fighting with you and hearing your laughter and not talking with you is unbearable. My cousins and friends, I grew up with you, learned so much from you and I miss your calls and smiles, but I had to go.

Have you ever been on the top of the hill or a tree? Have you ever sat at the highest point of a mountain? I was at the effing summit and I got to marvel at nature. It was at times, overwhelming. I saw the most beautiful scenery, with soil, leaves, rocks and water. I heard and saw angry brooks and serene ponds. I saw critters and listened to them call their mates and forage for food. I saw their scat and footprints and steered clear of their path. I was amazed by the glory of nature at the church of the outdoors.

Before I picked nature’s path, I was disgruntled, frustrated and disenchanted. I didn’t have a plan or a lane. I was being a tool to the people that I loved the most and I don’t think I apologized for my behavior and the angst that I caused you.

Nature became my lottery ticket and I won so much. I learned how to live outdoors and rock climb. I got hiking boots and socks and learned about the proper outdoor clothes. I researched and got…