| This will seem hopelessly romantic, but what the heck, I mean every word. Take a loved one for a walk in a nearby state park, particularly those with shaded paths. It can be a spouse, friend, son, daughter, father, mother -- anyone you feel strongly about.
Walk along the path hand-in-hand, slowly, and say little. Take in the sounds, the smells, the sights, feel the breezes on your face, and admire the nature around you.
And this time, leave your camera at home.
On this day you're not going to spend it behind a lens. You're going to soak up every minute and live for the moment with your companion.
I did exactly that Monday afternoon with my fiance, Kelly. I committed myself to keeping our stroll very leisurely, commenting only on the beauty around us and not about any other matters. Like a blood transfusion, the calming effect coursed through us both, freeing us for a spell from the complexities of everyday life. We felt a part of the environment instead of estranged observers, and this simple serendipity really felt meaningful.
It's been said that for those who "think," the world is a tragedy; for those who "feel," the world is a symphony. Philosophy aside, being outdoors and amid nature indeed really is about "feeling." And like the difference between reading a manual on how to drink from a cup and simply doing it, talking about Florida's great outdoors isn't enough -- it must be done, it must be experienced, and ideally shared.
Don't "find time at some point" to take a loved one on such a wondrous walk -- just do it. Even just an hour or two is salve for the soul, and on these long summer days you don't have to wait for the weekend either. Not only will you ratchet up an appreciation for the displays of nature's treasures, your special someone will treasure you even more. |
