Monday, April 18, 2011

Travis Bruns Noland Trail Reflection 4/18

The Noland Trail was kind of a disappointment for me. I had been awaiting this class since Dr. Redick first mentioned it. I had high hopes and they were not fulfilled. This anticipation and expectation is what I believe to be the culprit behind depriving me of a wonderful experience.

I think I may have been trying to force a moment of serenity, but the setting was never quite right. The sun hid behind the clouds causing it to be dreary throughout the walk. I kept thinking about seeing the large snapping turtle at the end of the walk. I overlooked a lot of the scenery on the trail since I was wondering how large the turtle is. I do remember the tree with the large bulb around the base. I am curious as to how this was formed. I feel the appearance of this tree can best be described as one of nature’s secrets: something that will always be a mystery to man.

I lingered at the bridge waiting for the snapping turtle longer than most. I was impatient and felt that I was missing out on a surreal moment. During my wait, I saw two turtles of a different breed, yet I still hoped to view the prized snapping turtle. Even the appearance of the smaller snapper that apparently surfaced for the other class would have been sufficient. Finally after waiting for about fifteen minutes, I decided the temperature must be too cold for the snapper and decided to return to campus. Despite this, I still hope to someday see the snapper. I am just waiting for a beautiful, stress-free day to return to that bridge.

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