At the start of 2023, I began going on dates with myself. I’ve done things like treating myself to a pack of stickers or a new art supply, but most weeks I take a trip somewhere outside in nature. One day in February I found myself in Myakka River State Park in Sarasota, Florida. It’s best known for its abundance of alligators but also has miles and miles of hiking trails to enjoy. I had never been out this way, but many of my usual trails were closed due to damage from a hurricane in September 2022. As I came upon a little copse of trees I paused and felt a sense of awe as I looked out that wide expanse of saw palmetto and pine. I was alone, but so connected at that moment. I didn’t get to stay long, but I stayed long enough to breath a deep sigh of joyful relief.
At the start of 2023, I began going on dates with myself. I’ve done things like treating myself to a pack of stickers or a new art supply, but most weeks I take a trip somewhere outside in nature. One day in February I found myself in Myakka River State Park in Sarasota, Florida. It’s best known for its abundance of alligators but also has miles and miles of hiking trails to enjoy. I had never been out this way, but many of my usual trails were closed due to damage from a hurricane in September 2022. As I came upon a little copse of trees I paused and felt a sense of awe as I looked out that wide expanse of saw palmetto and pine. I was alone, but so connected at that moment. I didn’t get to stay long, but I stayed long enough to breath a deep sigh of joyful relief.
