Wild Basin

There is an place not too far from my home called the Wild Basin Area. Though I have never researched the reason this was the given name I like to think it has to do with all the rivers, streams, creeks, and waterfalls located in the beautiful place. It was here I was hiking with a goal to reach the magnificent Ouzel Falls. The trail is not a difficult one and follows the banks of the St. Vrain River and two other waterfalls along the way. The mountains had been receiving quite a bit of rain recently and though this day was clear and sunny the river was swollen and raging beside us. As we made our way along the trail I began to notice that I could actually follow the trail without assistance by using the sound of the St. Vrain. Of course I still needed to exercise caution because there were rocks on the trail and I certainly didn’t want to stumble and fall in the river. Still, it was an amazing feeling hiking without help if only for a small while. The river was telling me where I was and where I needed to go. I did not know exactly what was behind me and I certainly did not know what lies ahead but in that moment I knew exactly where I was. We stopped for a short rest near Calypso Cascades and I began to realize this hike was synonymous with life.
The past is behind us and the future is not set but do we know where we are in this moment? We are told to live in the present but so often we find ourselves lost in our past or daydreaming of the future. As humans we seem to be unique in this way. When a beaver dam breaks the beaver does not simply sit and stare at the ruined structure. He moves on and rebuilds. The black bear does not sit and dream of its long winter slumber. It roams the land, feeding and frolicking in its domain. Should we not follow the beaver and bear’s example? Too many unfortunate souls get mired down in the mistakes of their past while others get lost in what they consider their glory days of old. Meanwhile, many become so focused and, sometimes, obsessed with the future that they can think and see nothing else. What I know on this day is that the warm sun, the raging water, and the chirping insects will never be quite the same as they are right now. On this night the cool air that comes with the evenings in the mountains will never feel quite this good. Certainly we can and should remember the past and plan for the future. But is not enjoying whatever joy you sense or feel around you at the present not receive the bulk of your attention?  With each dawn, a beautiful day. With every cup of tea, a wonderful sensation of flavor. With each chirping bird, a joyous wild song. Life with every breath. It seems as though the overall quality of life can only improve if we all savor each moment. For my own part I know that reliving the trauma of losing my sight and worrying about what future I can or cannot have will only lead to my own personal ruination. Living, learning, and loving in the present can allow us all to overcome any obstacle no matter how big or small. Our pain will be lessened while our joys are heightened.
As we prepare to continue down the trail, I attempt to take in all that is around me for I know now it will never be quite like it is in this moment. In this land known as the Wild Basin I have learned to accept and appreciate the most important gift I will ever receive, the present.