BEYOND THE EQUINOX: THE PLEASURES OF A LATE SEPTEMBER WALK
by contemplativeinquiry
Some days seem truly blessed and easy. For me this autumn moment is one of them. I have stumbled across a previously unknown place that radiates the beauty of the season. Woods and river call to me and I respond. I like being where I am, open to the day, free of complications.
I like not knowing what’s round the next corner, whilst enjoying the new spaces I am already in. I notice how small changes of position alter the feeling-tone of place.
There’s little to say, at a time like this. There is the experience and there is the visual record. I hope the images suggest something of my simple delight in being here.
The path below seems to be telling me that there’s always somewhere else to go, but here is where I decide to stop taking pictures. A certain kind of moment is over, and best recognised as such. Nonetheless, I bask in the happiness of connecting with this new and unsuspected space.
contemplativeinquiry 
I know exactly that feeling – ‘I like not knowing what’s round the next corner, whilst enjoying the new spaces I am already in.’ – we lived in an extraordinary place for a few years, on a small private island, most of the time the only residents. Our view was incredible – the islands of Eigg and Rum – and then we bought a house, on the mainland. When we were looking it quickly became apparent that we could never afford property with similar views but… we could find a place without a view… that is, in a wood – literally. All we see are trees despite being close to a road – there are paths and a river and hills beyond. Five years on and I’m still delighted by new discoveries all the time. I love that behind every tree there may be something I’ve not seen before. Years of looking on the same astounding and dreamy view was peaceful and gentle – but here I can have peaceful and I can have all manner of vibes… it’s not just the eyes – all senses are involved. Life is all about change…
Thanks for sharing this rich personal story. You give me a real sense of place and the way you experience it, both on the island and, now, in the wood.
I recognise the bridge, I think.