Rule Number Two

Rule Number #2: Be Prepared

I reach the First Stream of my journey. I lug the large sack to the edge and stop for a moment. I look into the water and listen to the trickle. The translucent flow runs over the rocks and I see the bottom. Small pebbles sit next to one another in perfect harmony. Each pebble has been pulled down the mountain by the flow of water. Each stone has been chipped from another stone. Each stone is then completely unique, until again divided by the water. There are different shapes, and different textures, and even the colors are never quite replicated. The water constantly grinds the stones, carving them down.

I stop for a moment and reflect upon these stones. I watch them and say a prayer. I ask God to watch over me, and to help me achieve harmony, much like the small pebbles that I’m seeing. And when I’m done, I move forward and place my feet solidly upon the larger stones protruding from the top of the flowing water. I pick my path carefully, and focus, moving gracefully across the top of the water.

I move slowly, methodically, capturing each breath and savoring the taste. The trail continues up the hillside and into the trees. Carved by the feet of Travelers like myself, as they continue on their journey. Travelers called by the trickle of water in the distance. The sound beckons towards a more contemplative light. Nature calls, and the Wilderness Calls, and I listen. What I hear is the sound of a challenge and a higher force calling for me.