Shine On

Shine On
            In our autism world, it sometimes feels like we will never move forward. That we’ll never get beyond difficulties that are no fault of our own. That we’ll never break out of a loop of sensory, language and cognitive processing challenges.
            But we do move forward. Though progress often feels like watching grass grow, there are times when something snaps like a rubber band and years of struggle pop like a bubble.
            During pandemic restrictions, people mention how every day feels the same, that there’s no sense of moving forward or changing for the better. Welcome to our world.
            Yet we will make progress. We will advance to better things. Acknowledging even a hidden glimmer of hope is how we keep moving.
            The sun puts on a dramatic show at the end of every day, even if it’s hidden by clouds. Somewhere over the horizon, the sun is fighting its way through to shine uniquely, stunningly.
            A fierce streak of sun sparkling on water both stirs and calms our hearts, inspiring us to keep putting one foot forward, and to shine on in our own unique way.
            This week’s Hike Notes are from the archives, Rodeo Lagoon Loop – Marin Headlands, one of several HikingAutism hikes that include time at Rodeo Beach, a shining treasure in its own right, on a sunny day, a foggy day, or under a stunning sunset. (Also check out Hike notes for Battery Townsley, Hill 88 from Rodeo Beach, and Marin Headlands Visitor Center to Rodeo Beach.)
            The long list of Hikes can be found on the Quick View Hike List and on the main Hikes page. All past Insights posts can also be viewed in the Insights/Hike Update News archives.
            Check the Home page for the broader background story. If you’re not able to take one of these Northern California hikes, hopefully you can enjoy the photo galleries at the bottom of each hike page! Click Insights/Hike Update News for inspiring reflections. Please feel free to share, and follow on Twitter at @HikingAutism.
This week’s Hike Notes from the Archives:
(Original Hike Notes 110): Rodeo Lagoon Loop – Marin Headlands