Follow the River

Although it's never anyone's goal to get lost when venturing out into the wilderness, it can happen unexpectedly — even to experienced hikers. Because of this, it's important to have a plan and know what you would do if you were to become lost in the woods.  Sounds like good advice from outdoorguide.com.

Their advice continues, stop moving, stay calm…keep a clear head and make good decisions.  Check!

Retrace your steps and look for landmarks.  If you can not find your way…as a last resort, you can use a river… always follow a river downstream. (Bolding is mine.)

Why downstream?

Again from outdoorguide.com.,

·       Less difficult journey.  Water likes to take the easiest path…  helps you conserve energy and calories until you are safe

·       Towns and cities tend to be downhill from mountainous or hill regions

A recent life lesson for me:  a dear friend, who is on a sincere pursuit to understand HIS true life purpose, who had been embarking on a new business venture, and having gone through the pain and effort of writing a book, web content, and corporate set up (ledger and accounting system, incorporating, etc.), bagged the new business.  He set the business aside, saying “too much pushing.”   Using the river analogy – too much effort going upstream, against the FLOW!

As I look forward to my upcoming Arches camping trip, I endeavor to NOT get lost, but in the event that I do, I will follow the river, DOWNSTREAM!