By Barclay Alldred
Salmon Arm, BC
The familiar trail is comforting. This piece of picturesque British Columbia forest adjoins the patchwork of meadows that surround our home. We are blessed to live here during this unprecedented viral event. We immerse ourselves in the outdoors and feel entirely safe from infection. Spring rains have produced lush growth in vibrant shades of green and the countryside is awash with the bloom of wildflowers.
Our steps are silent on springy moss. Birdsong is prolific. Melodic calls and agile vocal trills ring in the air. The air is fresh and clean and carries the scent of cedar. Holly grows abundantly from tree stumps transforming into soil once again. Pockets of wild violets languish in the shade. The sound of a brook rises from a ravine on the left. Ahead, to the right wild berry bushes and wild roses blanket a knoll.
We are aging. We walk for health but more importantly, for the pure pleasure of being a part of this fragile ecosystem where meadows, lake and forest interconnect. We are one with our surroundings, co-existing with the creatures calling this home. The elements are in balance in this place and we feel sheltered, protected and comforted.
“It’s so tranquil and peaceful here. Hard to remember that the world is in such a state of chaos and turmoil,” My husband’s words drew me back from my reverie over nature. The pandemic had humanity under its thumb. In addition, the impact of the Black Lives Matter movement cast its shadow over these times. Political unrest and economic disruption had entire countries in their grip. It was worrisome, stressful and beyond our control. Our forest walks allowed us time to disengage and regenerate.
I take solace from the fact that this virus will not destroy places such as this. It might destroy my species, but ultimately, these trees will still be here — the graceful Cedar, ramrod Fir and silvery Birch. These flowers, birds and forest creatures will remain. Lichen will continue to grow and the brook to run. The cycle of life will continue here, quietly and reliably. Would we be missed?
Would We be Missed?
Copyright © Barclay Alldred, 2020