As we trekked through Muir Woods, I wondered if something were wrong with me. Being among the redwoods, I thought I should be moved to tears with awe. Or at the very least, I should have been a step closer to inner peace. Maybe I don’t know how to “do” nature.
When we finally sat down, I tried to inhale the extra clean air but still didn’t feel invigorated or the rush of energy that the rogue tour guide said I should. Was that also wrong?
I thought I would feel more. This just feels like a forest.
It’s wild to think back now how I let expectation color my experience. I was so busy looking for something that I couldn’t receive what was right in front of me: Time with friends, no matter where it was, where were together and undistracted. And the exercise and fresh air were a plus.
As I enter into new experiences, I want to give them the freedom to unfold. I will allow the moments to take shape and allow them to be disappointing, awe inspiring, or just okay. I release them from the restrictions of expectations and will allow myself to go forth and feel whatever it is that I truly feel.
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