Winter 2013-2014 THE QUARTERLY OF THE TORONTO BRUCE TRAIL CLUB Vol. XLX No. 4 www.torontobrucetrailclub.org | 416-763-9061 |
[email protected] 50 SHADES OF SILENCE By Jacqueline Holmes We read about Tree Hugging and Meditation Walking, also about the fabulous practice of Forest Bathing....but I have never experienced the very simple, joyful exercise of ‘Not Talking” whilst walking. On a recent Urban Hike the group of 19 Bruce Trailers were exuberant, chatting like magpies, laughing and generally out for a good time! Was it because this was an extra added hike and they were appreciative, or simply they all had a heightened anticipation of seeing each other again and being in the fresh air? We did not have a good start. One person tripped over a bootlace, another dropped his water bottle on his foot and squealed around in pain. Any self-respecting bug, small animal, bird or butterfly would certainly have the sense to stay well clear of us. As we were approaching a particularly beautiful Photo taken by Jennifer Jiang archway of tall trees with a gurgling stream enormity of the silence. My mind began on either side, the level of talk and laughter thinking of all the tender, young men sent rose to such a height we may as well have off to war, marching for hours in silent drills. been cheering at a Blue Jays’ game – so much I hope it gave them the same feeling of safety for the appreciation of nature! I drew the and oneness. Maybe there is a reason for group to a halt under a sprawling, shady silent marching! Whatever the process, it is weeping willow tree and gently made the like a cleansing magic of the brain and the following suggestion: emotions, and for me, gave me such a feeling of gratitude.