Elizabeth Dean: Old Rag as a Natural Setting

Old Rag as a Natural Setting
This past summer, although I made every effort possible to get a job, it never really happened; unfortunatly the work force repels me, and it was a situation out of my control. In any case, I decided to take my free summer time, and do as many other activites that would benefit me in other ways, becasue I wasnt getting financially benefited. One of these activites included climbing Old Rag. I had heard about this hike from a couple people I know who had done it, and although seemingly difficult I had a yearning to do it. I chose the day in which I wanted to venture out and attempt this climb, got my friend to take off work, and in the morning at 8am we set off! It was a process in itself finding how to get there, discovering there were no people working, and the parking lots were sketchy, and we had no cell phone service and really had no idea what we were doing, but we kept our spirits high. I went into this experience hoping I would get some cardio, mayeb geta little tan, and so I could brag about it later, but I experienced somethign so much stronger I did not expect untuil after completion. The hike to the top was long, and tiring and strenuous at times, but worth every minute of it for the feeling of reaching the top. I was hoping the views would be cool, but not only wwas the view extraordinary I had an overwhelming feeling of peace, and safety, and comfort I was nto expecting. I had no other distractions from the otuside world besies my friend accompanying me and the feeling of the wind, and the sunshine, and the slience and serenity of being on top, like I had no worries in the world and everything was goign to be alright was truyl remarkable. I went back two days later to get that feeling of peace and serenity again, and did. I took this hike again this past semester, and after all the stress from school and commitments the feelings I received upon reaching the summit were even stronger. I cant wait to go back this summer, to have this spiritual experience again.