As the weather turns progressively cooler, EMU students respond in a wide variety of ways, often dependent on their geography. One friend from Florida, at the first drop in temperature, dons a massive parka and offers doubting looks to anyone who dares remark on the excessive nature of his coat. Other students grow giddy with the prospect of Halloween and all that it entails: costumes, candy, and more candy.
In my second year in Virginia, I am becoming increasingly enraptured with this season of fall. There is nothing quite like walking across campus with a crisp wind blowing, crunching leaves underfoot, and watching as the setting sun intensifies the hues of the already majestic trees.
An Impromptu Hike
Last Saturday, a group of four friends and I were walking back from brunch at the Caf, (that’s the cafeteria, for those unfamiliar with the lingo). We noticed that the mountains in the distance were unusually clear on this autumn day, aflame with the reds and yellows of fall. “Well,” we thought, “if the mountains are that beautiful, that’s where we should be.”
A short half hour later, four of us piled into a vehicle and headed for the hills. Two of the girls had decided that homework was a bit more important than hiking on that day. A very mature decision, I’m sure, but one which I was quite glad I didn’t take.
On the Cliff's Edge
After a short hike we reached a large cliff-face overlooking the Shenandoah Valley. One of the guys brought along his rappelling gear, (he’s a Camping, Recreation, and Outdoor Ministries major, so that’s not as random as it sounds), so while the rest of us admired the view, he rappelled down a few times. I must admit, although I trust his skills and precautions, it was always good to see him reappear safe and in one piece.
It was rather windy on the cliff-edge, so we were very happy to have our coats. At one point, the wind was so strong that it caught the bag for the rappelling rope and carried it over the edge and into the woods below. Realizing we’d seen the last of it, we philosophically sent our best wishes to whatever hiker would someday find a new bag for himself lying peacefully on the forest floor.
Enjoying God's Creation
We headed back to campus with homework still undone, but with good memories of a wonderful Virginia afternoon. I think that much of college is a trade-off between these kinds of impromptu experiences and the ever-present work load.
There are some moments when you just have to breathe, look at something beautiful, and remind yourself that life is about more than tests, papers, and classes. Standing high above the Valley, we were reminded of this fact: God’s creation continues to cycle smoothly through its seasons whetheror not we notice its passing. I dedicate myself to noticing.
