When I was younger I used to play outside for most of the day. Whether it was hot and bright, pouring down rain or getting chilly at the edge of winter, I loved it. Climbing trees, hide and seek, pretending, and riding my bike straight through mud puddles are just a few things I used to enjoy! Amongst my playing and fun there would be moments of pure relaxed realization of the beauty of my surroundings, of Alabama in the deep south and all it's cozy glory. At least, I would do that as much as any day-dreaming elementary school girl was able! Being out in the weather and the freshness of a breeze was one on-going memory from my childhood I will always long to go back to. Ah, uncountable stars splattered across the sky at night were visions of bliss in my little world. Recalling the beauty of simplicity now is overwhelming!
Yet, now I don't go outside so much. Maybe to walk my dog or get in the car to hurry to some function of searing importance but not for that simple, elegant, humble enjoyment. I can almost feel the grass and trees wondering where I am. This highschool junior is now to grown up for simple or time-claiming activities of an uncomprehendable calming effect! I'm far too busy. To revisit the grandeur of my childhood would be blissful but a put off. The bustling rush of day to day life keeps me misdirected and confined to a building. How the light of the sun works so hard just to creep in and say hello once more!
Don't take the beauty of leaf piles and mocking birds for granted. If we all just took a true minute to stop the rush and find comfort in the world that was created for us . . . life should be, I think, more like a child's- joyful and focused. Why not let the creeks and rivers worry about rushing?
Name: Samantha Hyde
Age: 16
School: Riverside Christian Academy/homeschooled