The call of the wild is an ancient attribute proper to every living thing. Very few creatures feel content to stay confined in the same environment for a long time. After a while, they long to explore fresh new territories. And so are humans.
Because of the threat of the Coronavirus, we have been requested to stay home… to keep a safe distance from our fellow citizens… And most of us abide by this directive. But as I understand it, it does not mean that we have to remain totally cooped up…
When you are about to be overcome by the blues, you might want to slip into your trekking zapatos and answer the call of the wild. But be careful and considerate. Stay away from people for at least 6 feet. You might also want to carry an electric cattle prod to keep the Spring Breakers and their ilk at bay.
In my neighborhood, pets are more numerous than people… (or so it seems) and they are not to be trifled with. It appears that the beasts don’t pay too much attention to the news and demand to go out every day. So, their keepers oblige, and that’s OK. As long as people don’t congregate, we all benefit from a bowl of fresh air.
Personally, I hear the call of the wild regularly. After a few hours spent behind a computer screen, I need to go out and stretch my legs. In order to remain sound of mind and body (and prodded by my wife), I walk regularly. I am not fanatic about it but I do it and I always feel better afterward.
Even during these trying times, I feel that I should continue that routine. But in a considerate manner. Like many of my neighbors, we walk solo and keep a safe distance from others.
But this practice can be boring and that’s why I never leave home without Sneaky Pete, my little compact camera. I am an indiscriminate hunter and I shoot whatever presents itself. I particularly like to photograph the fauna gathering around local ponds. If you look closely at them you will notice that different species mix peacefully with other breeds.
This is a thing that humans often fail to do.
To sum it up, don’t let gloom overwhelm you. Stay in touch with your friends (Skype, FaceTime, WhatsApp) and walk regularly to aerate your brain.
Danger, if met head on, can be nearly halved. Winston Churchill
We are all in this together and we will soon reach the other shore. Just keep safe and laughing (not too loud) in the face of danger. So far this is the best remedy .
Alain