what is wilderness?

Kim Adney 4-5-10
Wilderness is the land that was wild land beyond the frontier, land that shaped the growth of our nation and the character of its people. It is the land that is rare, wild places where one can retreat from civilization, reconnect with the Earth, and find healing, meaning and significance. Wilderness contributes to the ecologic, economic and social health and well being of our citizens, our country and our world. The benefits wilderness areas provide are as diverse as the areas themselves and are highly valued. These are the things I have learned about wilderness, though many misconceptions exist about it. Some people think that wilderness is a lock-up of land that keeps people out. Others think many popular recreational activities are prohibited in wilderness.