July 4, 2024
Hi, it’s July. 4th. I am contemplating the walk event of the day. So, I’m down by the great Miami River. wondering what happens if I just stay out, even if it’s raining? No umbrella. I’m carrying my backpack. Is it always necessary to shield myself from rain? It’s very warm out.
I’m less than 30 minutes from my vehicle. I have water . I have food. I even have my backpacking equipment, including my shelter.
I think I’ll just stay out.
And….. I did stay out for about thirty minutes as light rain fell, then stopped. I completed the mile back to my vehicle and stepped into the stone shelterhouse to eat my lunch, being graciously welcomed by a couple enjoying their lunch. As I ate, the sky blackened and the wind picked up, tossing the leaves high in the forest canopy. Rain pelted down and I moved back from the open side of the shelter to the next table to stay dry.
In contrast to my earlier choice to just stay out in the light rain, now I was grateful to be under cover during the thunderstorm! I celebrated having enjoyed both staying out and being in!