View from on High

View from on High
            The nitty-gritty details of life can feel overwhelming during this closely restricted time of the pandemic. It’s easier to feel dragged under by minor issues of the daily grind without enough ways to clear our heads. There are fewer activities outside our own homes, less interaction with people, little chance to travel and get a sense of distance.
            We may not be easily able to travel far as the crow flies under current circumstances, but what if we rise upward?
            It’s amazing how powerfully we can change our sense of perspective when we stand on a high hill or mountain, or at the window of a tall building, and gaze out at the distance.
            Even in a densely packed city like San Francisco, there are ways to rise out of the claustrophobic city street level and gain a refreshing wide view. Famous for its steep hills, San Francisco features many charming and quirky stair walks that offer grand views for short (though steep) walks.
            Climbing up step after step, some huffing and puffing more than others, we find ourselves far from the madding crowd, and can take a moment to reset our outlook, remembering that we are just small dots in a big world. I don’t know why realizing our insignificance in the world is a relief, but it does help alleviate pressure of expectations and clear the mind.
            This week’s Hike Notes, Jack Early Park – San Francisco Stair Walk, leads readers to one of San Francisco’s many alluring stair walks, this one with glorious views of San Francisco Bay, including Alcatraz, the Bay Bridge, and Mt. Tamalpais.
            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.
New this week:
Hike Notes 120: Jack Early Park – San Francisco Stair Walk