I really dislike the idea of individuals owning huge tracks of land without public access… it’s just so selfish to assume you can have total control over even a small part of the Earth. In much of Europe you have a fundamental “right to roam” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freedom_to_roam
I so agree, Clifford! Walking the Dales and Lakes of England was a real privilege. The ‘right to roam’ laws are an incredible gift to the public, who appear to respect and cherish the lands they traverse by having access to them.
I really enjoyed reading this essay, James. I like this point you make: "Everyone worries about the destination, but every living thing has only one destination, at least in this world. None of us know what follows."
James, this was such a rewarding and enjoyable read. You imbued the narrative with meaning and purpose. I was frightened for you at one point, and felt that the horse was a gift and a sign meant just for you. So beautiful. I, too, have a predilection for trespassing, which served me well in childhood meanderings around rural, coastal Michigan, but not so well in big cities like Chicago and Detroit!
Thanks so much for reading and sharing, Neil. I’m so glad to hear you enjoyed it, and I appreciate you going into the woods with me. When I read your words and look at your photos, I often imagine what it would be like to take a woods walk with you. I know we both like our solitude, but I think we’d make fine woods-walking partners.
Enjoyed this by the way!
I really dislike the idea of individuals owning huge tracks of land without public access… it’s just so selfish to assume you can have total control over even a small part of the Earth. In much of Europe you have a fundamental “right to roam” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freedom_to_roam
I so agree, Clifford! Walking the Dales and Lakes of England was a real privilege. The ‘right to roam’ laws are an incredible gift to the public, who appear to respect and cherish the lands they traverse by having access to them.
I really enjoyed reading this essay, James. I like this point you make: "Everyone worries about the destination, but every living thing has only one destination, at least in this world. None of us know what follows."
James, this was such a rewarding and enjoyable read. You imbued the narrative with meaning and purpose. I was frightened for you at one point, and felt that the horse was a gift and a sign meant just for you. So beautiful. I, too, have a predilection for trespassing, which served me well in childhood meanderings around rural, coastal Michigan, but not so well in big cities like Chicago and Detroit!
I enjoy your naturalist's details.
What a vivid journey, I loved reading it! Thank you for sharing your gifts
Thanks so much for reading and sharing, Neil. I’m so glad to hear you enjoyed it, and I appreciate you going into the woods with me. When I read your words and look at your photos, I often imagine what it would be like to take a woods walk with you. I know we both like our solitude, but I think we’d make fine woods-walking partners.