2 minute read
The Gift of Solitude, By Joyce and Barry Vissell
FEATURED COLUMNIST
The Gift of Solitude
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By Joyce and Barry Vissell
When I tell people I’m driving almost 1,000 miles to raft Desolation Canyon of the Green River, an extremely remote and roadless 84 miles in eastern Utah, which will take me about a week, they assume, “Wow, what a nice trip I’m doing with Joyce and some rafting company with lots of people!”
Then I mention that it’s a solo trip, just me, perhaps not seeing another soul for days at a time. Most people are appalled. They tell me I’m crazy. They tell me I’m reckless. Perhaps I am, just a bit, crazy and reckless that is. But for me, I crave solitude in the wilderness, nature’s divine temple. I’m writing this from my first night’s camp, eight miles downstream from the put-in at Sand Wash. I am truly alone. I had lightning, thunder, and rain while rowing in my little 12-foot raft, loaded with everything I need for a week away from civilization, with no cell service, internet, cars — or people.
My first choice, however, is not solitude. My first choice is to be here with my beloved Joyce.
When the two of us are in nature, it’s like I’m alone. We are so attuned to one another that it feels like I’m with a special part of myself, rather than with someone else.
But alas, Joyce has a limit to the number of river trips she feels comfortable doing. And she doesn’t feel able to go backpacking with me anymore. With Joyce, we take off in our camper, and still get a fine nature experience. But a few times a year, as long as I am able, Joyce gives her blessing for my solo immersions into the wilderness.
You ask, “Why solitude? Why not go with a friend or six?
“Shared Hearts” page 27
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