Walking Together

Walking Together
            Having time alone can be a wonderful thing. A quiet moment away from others allows us to reflect and center ourselves.
            Isolation feels different from “alone time.” Feeling isolated can drain us emotionally, and in turn, physically.
            For those of us in the special needs world, isolation is a huge challenge. Behavior issues, health issues, sensory issues. At every turn, obstacles prevent us from participating in “normal” society. There are countless reasons a person might be cut off due to feeling “different.” Illness, disability, poverty, language and cultural differences. The list goes on. 
            Loneliness can happen not only to an individual, but to a group. Special needs families are just one example of a small unit of people floundering amidst the surrounding crowd.
            The companionship of supportive people can be more healing than any medicine or fitness program.
            Drifting away from others can become a self-propelling state. Stop and think of opportunities to connect. Friends? Family? A support group? Sometimes a sympathetic stranger who “gets” your situation is more uplifting than people we share emotional baggage with.
            Life throws plenty of curveballs. Pick yourself up and reach out. Find someone kind to walk part of your path with you.
            And when you can, offer a hand to others who need warmth and friendship.
            This week’s Hike Notes, Ecology Trail in the Presidio, introduces a quiet trail within a busy city, good for solo reflection time or for walking side by side with companions.
            Please feel free to share. If you’re not able to take one of these Northern California hikes, hopefully you can enjoy the photos!
            The list of hikes is getting long! Please check the Quick View Hike List or scroll down the main Hikes page to see the current list of hike notes.
New this week:
Hike Notes 64: Ecology Trail In the Presidio