Along the Shenandoah

(NPS Photo/Chapman)

Along the Shenandoah: A Meditation for Spring

Spring has officially sprung, but many of us are isolated from the new life emerging in nature. This can lead us to feeling blue. As a global community we are in a unique place in time, collectively enduring something not seen in a hundred years. Pain, fear, sorrow, anxiety . . . these feelings loom, leaving many of us without effective coping mechanisms.

And a bad case of cabin fever.

While pondering our new “normal,” my mind wanders back to Harpers Ferry, where despite everything, life keeps moving and growing. This place has seen its abundance of disruption, but no matter what, time continues on at the Ferry. I think of the battles, John Brown’s Raid, the rise and fall of diverse industries. As much hope that was lost, there has always been double that amount to be found. In a park abundant in history—where the energy of the past dwells and many say you can “take a step back in time”—now is an ideal time to virtually step into the present and let yourself experience the Ferry’s sense of peace and magnificence.

Join me in a virtual trip to the magical Virginius Island. . . .

(NPS Photo/M. Hammer)

A visualization of the Ferry: A sensory experience to transport you from the sofa to the Shenandoah.

Picture yourself setting off for a hike. The worn trail under your feet supports you and guides you toward adventurous delights. The river flows past you. Rapids mist your face as you watch the current carve out familiar paths. The water continuously dances over the stones at different paces, twirling and swirling around every turn. We, too, move in such ways, with purpose and a bit of wild charisma. Perhaps we don’t know what is around the river bend, but Harpers Ferry is proof that no matter how awful the situation, beauty is never far.

Take a moment to feel the fresh wind, clean and cool, whirling circles around you while the sun, high in the sky, warms your face. The wind moves through the plants and trees. The bluebells wave to say hello. They’re happy to have returned for another season. Their intertwined roots deep in the dirt form a strong web of support to ensure community growth. Isn’t it interesting how alike we are? The princess tree canopy blossoms overhead with regal and whimsical purple hues. These pleasant buds encourage us to keep exploring, for there are more delights to be found ahead.

While the air sifts through the treetops, little and large birds flutter through the branches. Resting, nesting, talking, squawking. Gray squirrels scale trunks and chatter with their families. They’re playful and precise, qualities worth noting. White-tailed deer with their fawns on long lanky legs venture out in the early mornings. The fawns gently inspect their lush surroundings. Watching them brings me immense joy. Their quiet elegance is awe inspiring.

Various types of turtles, be it the Eastern Box Turtle or the Snapping Turtle, float in the Shenandoah Canal, shimmying their legs as they coast through the water. Some choose to sunbathe on a log or a rock that has revealed itself to the open air. Grounded and wise are the turtles, seldom in a hurry and nearly always mindful of their actions. Turtles are a reminder to pace yourself—all good things come with time.

Canada Geese congregate at the canal, treading water as they honk at each other. Some may have a nest tucked away, storing eggs that will soon be cracked open by little beaks. Mother goose will walk her goslings around the park, letting them get their bearings until they’re ready to take flight.

Right now, we’re all the grounded goslings. We’re learning a new way of life, feet on the ground, and looking forward to the promise of being able to spread our wings. The time will come to soar, but now we have time to ponder all of the simple and grand gifts this earth provides to us year after year without fail. Time in itself is a gift, and if you’ve spent some of yours reading this, I thank you and hope you feel happier for it.

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Author Bio:

Lea McDowell is a Sales and Visitor Experience Specialist at Harpers Ferry Park Association. She finds inspiration in the rich history of the Ferry and the boundless flora and fauna that surround it. She has written for newspapers such as The Daily Athenaeum and Shepherd University’s Picket. Lea enjoys crafting literary dreamscapes that celebrate natural places and our relationship with them.