Day 2 – Slackpacking Maine – AT Hike #12
Day 2 – Appalachian Trail – Nahmakanta Lake to Jo Mary Road – 14.9 miles, Gain 856 feet, 3+ Water Crossings
We all face different challenges, some known and some that catch us by surprise. Today, I encountered both. My apprehension towards water crossings was unfounded, as they were mostly dry, making them an easy feat. However, the real test came from the narrow, deteriorating bog boards, elevated high above the ground or low hugging the swamps. They demanded my focus and balance, a misstep, not an option. This experience is akin to life’s balancing act—managing a career, family, and friends.
Life, like a trail of bog boards, requires careful navigation. Each step, whether it’s a project at work or a moment with one of my kids, holds its own importance. When we falter, it’s not a failure but a nudge to pay closer attention, to realign our focus. It’s a delicate dance of priorities, where every step, every role we play, is a vital part of the whole. And just as we find our footing on the trail, we learn to balance the various aspects of our lives, giving each the attention it needs, when it needs it.
Remember, it’s not about perfection but progress. Each step, whether sure or uncertain, is a part of the learning process, guiding us to a more balanced life, and stronger ecosystem.
Around mile 7 the wilderness took on a somber tone as thunder rumbled ominously. We marched on, the sounds of the wild acting as a prelude to the storm. Then, lightning struck, and we spread out, a safety measure against the electric sky. The rain descended, a welcome respite from the sweltering day, yet it brought new challenges. The boards, even less stable underfoot, now demanded even greater care with each step as they became wet and slippery. It was a stark reminder of life’s sudden urgencies, where you’re compelled to respond, to adapt swiftly and wisely, and be present for what needs you the most.
In life, as on the trail, we’re often faced with moments that require immediate attention, where balancing our steps with the shifting ground beneath us is not just a skill but a necessity. But are we ready? Do we possess the inner strength to uphold us through the next challenge, to keep our hearts steady through the ensuing crises?
After a day marked by endurance and a little fear, we emerged at mile 14.9, drenched, into the clearing where the white van awaited. A successful day it was, never once faltering into the murky waters that lay beneath the bog boards.
Today, was a stark reminder that while the path may be slick and the boards unsteady, you can overcome your fears. Just take one step at a time.
