In the movie Wild (based on a memoir), a young woman hikes the Pacific Crest Trail in an effort to face her poor life choices, brought on by the death of her mother. Though nature does not impose introspection, she offers a setting devoid of judgment, sentimentality and interpersonal distractions.
Indeed, nature offers solitude and tranquility while delivering challenges that are neither predictable nor personalized. She is neither demanding nor understanding; rather, nature conducts her cycle oblivious of our presence. Though we might try to mold her landscapes and harness her forces, she will always have the final say.
Some might suggest that nature is cold-hearted, capable of inflicting hardship without apology or remorse. Yet, she is equally inspirational, lending her beautiful yet complex ecosystems to all who care to immerse themselves. Those who take advantage of the opportunity find that nature's healing powers are formidable indeed; we are, after all, part of her realm.
