After the Road Not Taken

As I stared at the split in the path, I knew I had to make a choice: brave the path not taken or safely traverse the well-worn road. Inspired by a burst of adventure, I started on the one appearing to host danger. And surely, as I went along, the undergrowth and thorny bush posed a hazard. The trees loomed ominously, blocking out the sunlight except for a few strong beams peeking through just enough so that I could see. I began to wish that I hadn’t taken this road, but I would lose precious time turning back, so I was resigned to push on. For another half hour, though it felt like much more, I stumbled through the flora, hoping and hoping to see the metaphorical light at the end or the tunnel. And then I saw it.

Amid the dark foliage and thorns was a trail of pastel-colored flowers. Praying that this wouldn’t be a mistake, I stepped off the path and followed them. I could never imagine where I would end up. In the middle of the darkest forest was a clearing of sunlight filled with more colors than I could name. Mushrooms grew on every tree trunk, butterflies flitted through the air, rabbits played merrily around each other, and deer ate leisurely, all completely at ease despite my presence. Absolutely awestruck, I fell to my knees, jaw hanging open as I wondered why I hadn’t heard of this location of beauty before. It hit me then. The average person would never even consider taking this path and even those of a more adventurous nature would eventually be overcome with common sense and take the road most taken. And who would believe the ones who returned from this dark path spouting apparent nonsense about a magical clearing in a hellish forest? I certainly would not have before today. I longed to stay and explore this clearing of wonders, but I did not want to stay in this part of the forest, no matter how fantastic, through the night. Thankfully another trail of flowers led me safely to the exit of the forest.

So I shall be telling this with a sigh, knowing many will not believe the wonders of my journey. Taking this path has made all the difference, for I have found that I look for the pockets of nature within the darkened parts of the world and can appreciate them all the more.