Love Letter to the Appalachian Trail

Back in January the Appalachian Trail Conservancy opened a call for people to submit a writing piece about their love for the Appalachian Trail. I submitted the following piece and they selected it to feature on their website, newsletter, and social media. You can see it on their website here—https://appalachiantrail.org/news-events/love-letters-to-the-a-t/love-letter-to-the-appalachian-trail/

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Memories of you fade into dreams.

The sunsets in Shenandoah,

the enchanted forests of Vermont,

I even miss the foggy mountaintops of Tennessee.

I want to be surrounded once more by

rhododendron so thick I have to bend over to pass through.

I yearn to sink back into the absolute wilderness of Maine,

alone among ancient peaks.

I need to remember how moving slowly over rocks and rivers,

through fields and valleys, across ever-changing horizons,

offers perspectives otherwise blurred.

Regardless of distance

I am forever pulled toward the green tunnel.

The endless ridge-lines draw me closer

until I set foot on trail

and feel at home once again.

            Thank you for always being there.

Whether for escapement, challenge, or reconnection

I know I can always return.

You welcome me with wide indifferent arms

and hold space for my thoughts and tears.

I know myself as a reflection of you.

Together as part of, not separate from,

connection can heal,

connection can break open our hearts

from which gratitude and hope emerges.

            I wish for others the opportunities to witness and grow along your path.   

You bring people together

in ways that still surprise me,

no matter how much time has passed.

I cherish the deep bonds that are formed over a shared experience

and relish in the magic made when laughter turns to song.

            Thank you for providing me with such amazing friends and love.

I am grateful to be part of your history,

as well as your future.