Jaded

I’m not. Nor do I plan to be. If you are, reevaluate what you are doing and how you are doing it. It doesn’t matter what has jaded you or what you are jaded about.

I live in the most amazing place. I can brag about it all day. As a matter of fact I do, and to anyone who will listen. As a mtb guide I often spend my day with someone who has come from a long distance, just to see my backyard. The reason why I think about this is because my client will inevitably ask if it ever gets old, if I’m jaded to the amazing red rocks and vistas that surround us. I always give them a resounding no. Granted, I didn’t grow up in the area I currently live and I do run into locals who can’t see past the nose on their face. I never want to get to that point. I can sit on the edge of Gooseberry Mesa and admire the ledges of Zion National Park all day if given the time. It is the most awe inspiring view. Especially at sunset, in a rainstorm. I love seeing it “for the first time” through the eyes of someone who has never seen it before. There are points on the trail that I try to get ahead just so I can stop and look back to see their face as they see the view for the first time. If you have been to the Grand Canyon, I recommend going again, but this time with someone who hasn’t been before, just to see their face and experience it through them. It is very satisfying.

As I’ve traveled on this trip, I’ve seen stunning scenery but rarely been able to share it with anyone. That’s both a good and bad thing. The thing I love the most is that people have wanted to share their local beauty with me. They have not been jaded to it.

I have been guided through Oklahoma by John, who was excited to show me some of his great country roads. Tim came all the way up to Arkansas and Missouri to show me some of his favorite places. What really brought it home for me was spending today with my Cousin. She and her family were so excited to show me their area and the beaches. They went on and on about how they find peace and solitude just by recharging their batteries on the beach. And they do it week after week and it never gets old. I admire that.

If where you live doesn’t amaze you. Move. Do something to change it.

This is one thing I’m good at and I wish I could tell everyone. Love where you are.

P.S. my route for the next few days is in the first pic.