LA Citylights by Eino Mustonen
I grew up in an endless city. Going outside to play meant going into the backyard which was half concrete and riding my bike in small circles or climbing up the lone tree that was in the center of the yard. Going beyond the confines of our yard was just not safe. We would go to the park or the beach, but even then we were never out of Mom’s earshot or eyesight. Never we were we left alone or to our own resources anywhere. This attitude carried over into my adult life and my outdoor excursions consisted mostly of walking to the local restaurants or corner store. Air-conditioning and flouresant lighting filled my days and evenings were spent infront of the tv or computer.
Then came geocaching. My world changed quickly! I began to discover new places in my hometown that I didn’t know existed. I found wonderful parks filled with sunshine and laughter in the mornings and afternoons with street musicians and hot-dog vendors. There was a whole other world going on out there and I had been so busy doing my life, that I had forgotten how to live it. Geocaching gave me a measure of reassurance that other people had been to these strange locations and had survived unscathed. This gave me the courage to venture in their footsteps and go see what could be found there. That was three years ago. Now it is not uncommon to find me darting out for parts unknown in the middle of the night, seeking that elusive first to find. I’ve traveled more slowly down roads I’ve known, learning to see them in a whole new way and explored new cities. Heartened by these little adventures I’ve begun to stretch and take bigger ones. Exploring city parks led to exploring state parks and state parks have led to National Parks. The beauty of this land is overwhelming. I am thankful every day for it. There really is so much to be thankful for. I am eternally grateful for the series of synchronous events that lead me to geocaching. You can read the short version of how I became a geocacher here. If you would like to read more stories about how other people have started geocaching and how it has changed their lives read,The Joy of Geocaching: How to Find Health, Happiness and Creative Energy Through a Worldwide Treasure Hunt
Hippocrates said, “Walking is a man’s best medicine.” I certainly have to agree. I am now walking my way through a whole different life. Thanks to geocaching.
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