Chris Writing Anything

What brings you peace?

Peace…when I was younger, I didn’t get it. Who needed peace and quiet? That’s before tumult confronted me. Now, yes, a solacing venture is welcome. And, because I’m me, and I need variety, I have a few outlets that stymie those anxiety demons. With all that laid before you, I’ll tell you what brings me peace.

First off, a rigorous mountain bike trail is awesome. My chosen bike path is an emerald haven. Really, it’s like being deep in a forest, and sometimes, at its most peaceful, whitetail deer will reveal themselves. So yeah, that’s peaceful.

Yet, hold on, I’m not finished. I’ve got a little more to say, especially about mountain biking. The sport is a challenge, and when you finish a trek, phew…it’s like you’ve ran a few miles. So, with a sustained elevated heart rate, when you’re finished, and you feel the blood pumping through your veins, a sense of accomplishment, coupled with a runners high, puts someone in a good mood.

Seriously….

My dream girl could walk up to me, that’s after I’ve notched another decent ride under my belt, and roll her eyes in disgust, saying, “You smell like roadkill punk, and you’re the homeliest imp I’ve ever seen.”

After a great ride, I’d simply shrug and chuckle, “ Well, damn, you can’t win ‘em all!…sorry to disappoint!”

Another pastime of mine, which is somewhat related to mountain biking, and I’ve only recently become avid, is kayaking. Don’t get me wrong, if I remember correctly, my kayak is twelve years old, and I’ve used it every summer since its purchase. However, lately, I’ve been going on ten mile excursions.

While paddling, the settings change. At times, it’s very peaceful and nature surrounds. Other times, when nearing my turn around point, I’m surrounded by the bustle of Green Bay’s downtown. I don’t know why, but those sights and sounds, viewed from the river’s vantage, cause an unparalleled emotion.

Finally, as I break away from outdoor adventures, and, when turmoil hits, there are a few authors who quell my soul’s turbulent disposition. Those authors present life as it is, and, because they do, I realize I’m not the only person struggling. You feel the character’s hardship, and the endings may not be a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, but the resolution is something you know the character needs. That’s much needed perspective.

Well, there you have it, peace, that’s where I find it. There a few other activities that conquer my stress…crosswords, mowing my lawn, donating possessions…but, the ones I’ve detailed, those are the ones that really can cause a 180 degree emotional turn.

Have an excellent day!!