peace

My experience at the beach reminded me of Henry David Thoreau’s experience described in Walden. In this book Thoreau talks about his experimental two years spent at Walden Pond near Concord, Massachusetts. He denies any ideas of the nature that society is the only place for people to live. He adopts a new minimalist lifestyle which he describes as being completely different from the materialistic imprisonment others subject themselves to in more populated civilizations. Thoreau becomes amerced in the pond’s community, despite their skepticism towards them. In his detachment from society he has more time to reflect upon himself and appreciate the beauty of nature. Just as Thoreau did, I feel as if I found a more favorable order of priorities in moments of serenity where I was able to reflect on society and myself. Thoreau built his home with no help or machines and wanted no help from such sources. Just as he did, my friends and I wanted an experience in which we were completely self-sufficient so we slept in our cars. It was an experience to not have to rely on any other people for our well being. Thoreau spent his time observing nature, going on walks, reading, writing and reflecting. With so much effort focused on simply exploring the depths of one’s mind so much can be accomplished. I learned this as well as I spent my weekend escape watching waves and having engaging conversations with my friends as we lay in the sand. I felt like we were so far away from other people and the monotony of our everyday schedules. The only things for us to do were reflect and relax. My experience is relatable to Thoreau’s on a much smaller scale but I believe I saw a glimpse of what he saw in the isolation of Walden Pond. These situations are ideal to really understand what is important to someone. Perhaps later in life I’ll take on an endeavor in which I will have an extended stay at a secluded beach or a small town and face the intense trip my mind will take from being in such a natural environment. Just as Thoreau did, and I began to do, and as many people have discovered: there is always time for self reflection and to gain an understanding of what is truly important. One main reason Thoreau is such a well respected and well remembered man in history is because he did what others only dreamt of doing. I think more Americans should take his example and take the time to order their priorities. The results will only be a country with a better focus and happier citizens.

...sleeping in car: completely free