I had grand visions of locking myself in my tent for two days to write, but alas, I sat in the woods for two days and laughed, chatted, roasted marshmallows, hung out with dear friends, drank and ate too much, played volleyball against a neighboring camp, told stories and swam in the river. The most work I did was reading research books near the fire – yeah, I worked.
I’d forgotten how much the woods are a part of my spirit. How much I depend on that time near the trees, and running water.
I finally had a chance to set up the tent I’ve been carrying around in my jeep, and I’m happy to be able to report – I managed by myself. On the way to the campground we took the ferry from Edmonds, which was the first ferry ride I’ve had in the lower forty-eight. I’ll post some pictures.
After Andymay fixed me a white Russian, we walked down to the river. It was 10:30 or 11pm and most of the campground was asleep. I felt tipsy, and Andymay was chatty and jovial. We found a spot near the bridge on the beach and laid down to stare up at the stars. The half full moon shone down on us while we talked about marriage and the choices we make. We talked about the role of current women in our society and how we felt about the institution of marriage currently. When there was a lull in the conversation I finally said what has been bothering me for a very long time…
“I’m sorry.”
“What for?”
“I’m sorry I got married and went away to the woods and left all my friends behind. I’m sorry I lost contact with you for so long.”
I forgot who my friends were. It’s almost like I couldn’t handle being around people who reminded me of the way I used to be, because I couldn’t seem to be completely happy with my new life as a married woman.
Andymay sighed, “I only feel bad about what happened to you. We all said when you got married to Reggie, “There goes Athena’s dreams.”
I didn’t know what else to say. I feel like I have so many repairs to make with the people in my family of choice. My friends and school mates. Andymay was very dear to me and I feel like I let her down somehow, if nothing more than losing track of all those years her life changed and I wasn’t there to share in the joy or the grief.
It’s September 2006 already. The leaves are changing and I can feel the current of autumn in the energy under my feet. I’ve had the greatest summer of my life so far. It’s been tough, full of adventure, a step in the direction of my dreams and a grand story for years to come… but the best part thus far has been the gift of my friends. The BlissQuest has returned me to people I’d misplaced. True friends pick up where you leave off, the dynamic is slightly altered and lives have moved on, but a true friendship absorbs these things and keeps on loving despite any differences of opinion.
If you’re reading this and you have a friend you haven’t talked to recently, perhaps your life has picked up speed – or you’ve had a disagreement in the past… if your spirit still burns for them, for the conversations and the companionship. If you miss the sound of their voice or the feeling of fullness you get when you share stories – CALL THEM NOW. Don’t wait. Don’t expect them to call you. Just leave a voicemail and say, “Miss you. Hope all is well.”
Friends are the family that choose to share your life. No obligation, no pressure. They see you when you’re at your best or worst and choose to share your life anyway. Just a phone call. It’s worth it.
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