Bench with a View

Bench with a View
            Benches usually look as if they are inviting us to sit down. Once in a while though, I see an empty bench that reverberates with the sense that it is empty because someone who should be there is not. I contemplate the sense of that missing soul and walk on.
            There are practical benches, such as those at bus stops and museums, not needing to offer anything but the comfort of a seat, but outdoor benches are typically arranged to serve up a view of something worthy to look at.
            In the very old, atmospheric cemetery at the outskirts of the tiny Upstate New York village where I grew up, walking through the rows of worn and sometimes toppled gravestones, I only remember seeing one bench. It was slightly uphill under some trees, and offered a short distance view, obstructed by tree branches. It still invited visitors to sit and ponder, despite the limited view.
            Now living on the coast of California, I take for granted the countless benches placed facing the ocean or a bay. We are spoiled by the ease of finding a place to sit and take in a grand view.
            When we need a dose of nature but are not up for the exertion of a long hike, finding a bench with a scenic view is a great option.
            This week’s Hike Notes, Battery Rathbone-McIndoe-Marin Headlands, introduces a stop on scenic one-way Conzelman Road in the Marin Headlands that offers glorious views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the sculptural coastline, and the Pacific.
            Find a bench and sit for a spell. Empty your mind from busy thoughts by soaking up the scenery, and keep putting one foot forward!
            Check the Home page for the broader background story. Click Insights/Hike Update News for inspiring reflections. Browse hikes on the main Hikes page or on the Hike Search by Area page, and scroll to the bottom of each hike page to see full photo galleries.
            If you’d like to support HikingAutism, check out the Support/Shop page! Check out selected articles and interviews under Media. Click World Walks to see or share favorite family-friendly walks! Stay in touch with Lisa Louis and HikingAutism via Contact. The Links page lists a loose collection of helpful information links. Feel free to share and follow on Facebook at HikingAutism, Twitter at @HikingAutism, Instagram at lisalouis777, and Bluesky @hikingautism.bsky.social
 
New this week:
Hike Notes 223: Battery Rathbone-McIndoe-Marin Headlands