Nature Journal #9: Blast from the Past

When embarking on this nature walk, it dawned on me that a break from the campus environment was long overdue. Moreover, I needed to go out and explore the outskirts of TCU. Well, what better way to savor a beautiful day than by sharing a stroll with one of your dearest friends? Thus, I called my friend Abby to see if she would accompany me on the walk, and she happily accepted. Our adventure began at the much-anticipated Starbucks for a quick, mood-boosting pick-me-up, setting the perfect tone for our stroll.

Walking side-by-side, we discussed all the relevant topics as seniors—job prospects, travel plans, relationship updates, roommate status, and much more. She informed me that after graduation, she is moving across the country to pursue her dream job. While genuinely thrilled for her success, a sense of melancholy lingers, as I come to the startling realization that our paths will no longer intersect in the same place. This sentiment extends beyond Abby, encapsulating all of my friendships rooted right here in Fort Worth. The stark reality that life will undergo a significant shift next year is a bitter pill to swallow. In a year’s time, I will be immersing myself in my full-time career, settling into my own apartment, and possibly navigating a new city.

However, all this change allows me to reflect on everything I am grateful for and the things I hold dear, particularly here in Fort Worth. Our stroll took a detour to explore TCU’s campus, a nostalgic journey down memory lane beginning where our paths first crossed at Milton Daniel freshman year. As I gaze at the commons area that never fails to amaze me, I see the absolutely breathtaking colossal Christmas tree, and there is a certain level of bliss that permeates across campus. 

While heading back home, our passage through the commons brought us to an unexpected pause. Perfectly stationed hammocks that were freshly set up in the grass immediately caught our attention. As we stared at them, we agreed that these hammocks were practically beginning to be used. So, we put our walking plans on hold and spontaneity took the lead as we settled into the inviting hammocks. For the next hour, we swayed gently, sharing stories, reminiscing about cherished memories, and indulged in an abundance of laughter. In that moment, it was like we had been transported back to our freshman days, filled with the same eagerness and excitement to embrace everything TCU had to offer.

Nestled in the inviting hammocks, the gentle sway under the open sky and the rustling leaves above created an unexpected yet enchanting connection to the natural surroundings. The embrace of nature’s elements elevated our impromptu gathering, and it felt as though time had stopped.