Orienteering season has begun. Well, actually, it began a couple of weeks ago, only I didn’t run an orange course because I had to train for the Avon Walk. Or so I said. Maybe I wasn’t ready to deal with all that frustration and humiliation and extremely likely possibility of utter failure again just yet.
But I tried again this weekend. I took a training course yesterday and felt SO excited. I found a tool that works better for me– a thumb compass. It eliminates some of the distractions for me. And I had a great day yesterday.
Not so much today. I failed. Again. I had to ask myself, as I was trudging back down the road (oh, sure, I can find the ROAD!) why I keep failing at this, over and over and over. It’s not like I’ve had much success. It’s not like anyone would care if I never did it again. It’s not like I will ever be a champion.
But yesterday, I was alone in the forest, and I found control after control on an advanced loop. And when I didn’t find one, I knew I was in the right place. I figured it out. I knew the answer.
It was exhilarating. I got the rhythm. I understood. It was mind and body and nature and life and everything all aligned and I was HAPPY.
Yeah, you know what I mean. Go get some writing done.
Oh, and by the way: I am going to win an orange course. You watch and see. I will do it.
Edit: I had to rush last night to post, so I didn’t have time to add the art. Also, Christopher Robin had the best time of the day, for any course.
Like this? Try these posts, too.:
Oh yes, dear Barb. I know just what you mean. Often writers are “alone in the forest.” And when we figure it out, it is the best, sooooo happy. Yes, I know what you mean. So much struggle, so much travail.
That was a great post. Inspiring. Love it.