We recently returned from a short camping, yoga, music and white water rafting trip along the South Fork of the American River. It was the perfect combination of connecting to things that light my fire…the fire that resides not only deep in my heart, but within my soul.
The river was a metaphor for life. As I sat in early morning meditation, listening to the ripple of the rushing water it reinforced the ever-changing moments of our ordinary lives. It reminded me that nothing in life is permanent, but is constantly facing change and transition. As the river flows, it comes up against obstacles…often huge exciting rocks that create power and white water. When we’re rafting, we face it head on most of the time, but sometimes hit them sideways or even backwards giving our hearts a rush of adrenaline, an instant of being completely absorbed in the moment with absolutely no distractions. Paying attention to anything other than the river could mean a harder journey, falling into the current and being at the mercy of something greater than ourselves.
The river gave the opportunity to simply let go. To allow its grace to carry us along its path as well as giving the gift of being able to absorb the beauty of the natural environs. The journey down the river provided contrasts of hot summer sun and cool river water. Of still pools and roaring rapids. Of peace and the deafening sounds of nature.
It is said that we never step into the same river twice. When your foot enters the water, if you were to remove it and step back into the exact location, it would be a different river than the moment before.
The river is life. It is our life.
It was a blessing to be with Mother Nature and realize even more deeply who I am.
