A place that is void of emotional danger or risk, no chance of harm, in fact it is a place that almost reverses harm done elsewhere. I love French Creek, I always have. I was introduced to it at a young age and it is one of the few positive connections I have to my biological father. Often Sunday visitations would be spent here, he may be responsible for my love of the outdoors. Skipped classes would be spent here in my high school years, naps would be had on the picnic tables, competitive games of disc golf would be played, cross country runs, relaxing kayak dates, and much time in solitude. If parks could hug, this park welcomes me with a warm embrace each time. It has so much beauty to offer, trails with character, roots of trees that run like veins throughout the ground are the very bloodlines. I breathe it in and want more.
After a tough day I know myself well enough to know I need to be here. My daughter and I spent hours there, taking our time and taking it all in. Sharing this spot with her is a gift I hope she will cherish, I hope this will grow to be her safe place as well. We hiked, explored leaves of color, ate a packed lunch while sitting directly on the dusty trail. She fell asleep on me and I would have stayed in this place forever. Time has no place in a place like this. The emotional world in my heart was quieted, given a peace, I heard God whisper Here Whitney, this is my reprieve for you, enjoy this beauty, I created it with you in mind.
I breathe slowly and deeply.
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