Trail Walk on the Noland

While walking the Noland trail I saw many things, including three deer in the woods. I learned about how you could tell the passing of time by looking at the fallen trees in the river and studying the erosion of soil from standing trees. When walking I didn’t have a big revelation about my life or find a solution to a long-endured crisis, however when I stopped to focus on the pond I observed all the ducks in it. As the ducks swam around I noticed they followed a pattern. Whenever one duck would turn and go an opposite direction, all the other ducks would follow. It was as if they were playing follow the leader, and the leader kept switching. I thought it was strange how similar animals are to humans. In my friend group in high school, commonly one person would make a decision, and everyone would follow. This wasn’t the best technique and it led to lots of disagreements, but watching the ducks made me realize how boring it is to follow other people. Following others can be easier because you’re not alone, but making your own path can lead to experiences no else has ever had before resulting in greater rewards.