I'v returned from my Nova Scotia adventure. My wallet is a bit lighter ( I never should've walked into that camera shop in Truro), but my heart is definitely lighter as well.
I always assume that on my little trips I'm going to learn something about myself, something I just wasn't aware of or that was slightly hidden from my conscious mind. This time I didn't necessarily learn something about myself as much as I learned a lesson. While in Advocate Harbour at the Cape d'Or lighthouse I met some native Nova Scotians. I mentioned to them that I was in their lovely province to take photos and to do some running. And I also mentioned my issues with Florida, namely that subjects for landscape photography are meager and boring in my flat, mountainless state. And my trail running suffers as well since we have no hills.
We spoke of other things. Canadian healthcare, their liberal ideals, economy, etc. But when all was said, I came to realize how proud they were of their region of Canada and the natural beauty of their country in general. They listed off places I should visit, creatures I might see, trails I could traverse.
They left after some engaging conversation around a bonfire, coupled with Merlot and lots of bug spray. Their pride and spirit impressed me deeply. I found myself hoping that if I were host to out-of-town travelers that I could represent Florida with as much pride as they had shown. Florida may not have mountains, raging rivers, glorious waterfalls, or prairies strewn with glacial boulders, but we have other things that can capture the senses. Creatures abound at all times of the year and we have water everywhere you turn. Anywhere you are in Florida you will find a kayak launch probably within five miles.
I may not find jaw-dropping views of mountain tops or canyons, but I just need to look at my surroundings with a slightly different perspective. I think that a true visionary can find beauty in the most ordinary environment. It's just something I need to work on.
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