Rediscovering Simplicity, Impact, and Joy: My Mountain Sabbatical in Northern MN
Life has a way of keeping us busy, constantly immersed in the hustle and bustle of everyday responsibilities. However, there are moments when we yearn for a break from the chaos, a chance to reconnect with ourselves and immerse in the beauty of nature. This is precisely what led me to embark on a soul-nurturing sabbatical atop a mountain in Northern Minnesota. Throughout this transformative journey, I discovered the captivating sounds, enchanting smells, and breathtaking sights of the Northern Shore.
Following are my reflections on the sounds, smells, and sights of the Northern Shore, the enchanting fragrance that permeates the air, the captivating wildlife, and the profound impact of sustainable living (note: resources, like time, are finite).
Sounds, Smell, and Sights of the Northern Shore
As we drove to our home for the coming month, we were struck by the aromatic smells that filled our car and senses. We could smell pine, patchouli, eucalyptus and wonder (trust me, you can smell it) and every breath was a moment of pure bliss, as the fragrant symphony transported me to a place of tranquility and connection with the earth.
We arrived as dusk descended upon the mountain, and the atmosphere took on an eerie, cinematic quality. The mosquitoes, which seemed to have materialized from an Ari Aster film, swarmed the surroundings (our car, our bodies, our brains). Their presence was initially disconcerting and a stark call to reality about why Minnesotans flee the area in June. However, as a native Michigander, I soon recalled the memories associated with their existence as my brain was flooded with warm nights shared with family and friends over decades of life. Many of them are no longer with us and these annoying beasts brought me back to a younger time, a freer and easier time.
Once we unloaded our car and settled into our space, I was struck as I stood on the mountaintop, surrounded by nature’s symphony, captivated by the beauty of the world around me. The sounds of moving water, rustling leaves, and singing birds orchestrated a symphony that soothed my soul. Each morning, the sun slowly called us awake as it poured through the window of our bedroom and welcomed us to a day that would be filled with light for over 14 hours.
The sight of the mountains, trees, and water stretching as far as the eye could see was a constant reminder of the grandeur of our natural world. One of the most profound aspects of my sabbatical was the ever-changing view that greeted me each day and the myriad times that view changed throughout the day, reminding me to look at things more than once because they evolve over time. I found solace and a profound connection to the magnificence of Planet Earth which I’ve so often forgotten to pay attention to or simply, taken for granted.
Living in such close harmony with nature provided me with unique opportunities to observe the magnificent wildlife that thrives in this region. We were lucky enough to see rumbly tumbly baby bears lumber across the road, majestic eagles soaring across the lake and river otters scurrying across the lake. We also got to hear and see the beloved moose as they made their way around the forest. I am grateful for the reminder about the beauty and diversity of our natural world.
Sustainable Living and the Finite Nature of Resources
Living off the grid on the mountaintop allowed me to experience the profound impact of sustainable living firsthand. Relying on rainwater and solar power for our daily needs, I became acutely aware of the finite nature of resources. This experience deepened my appreciation for responsible consumption and the need to preserve and protect our planet for future generations.
The pandemic unlocked the long-known knowledge that we’re all going to die, and are each given a finite amount of time to live, love and make magic in this life. The analogy of resources to the limits of time hit me deeply and in a way that made those limits easier to perceive and understand.
Rest, Reading, DVDs, and Writing (everything BUT social media and SmartPhones)
Embracing the tranquility of the mountaintop, I discovered the beauty of rest and rejuvenation. The absence of distractions (and access to wifi or cellular service) allowed me to fully disconnect and immerse myself in the pleasures of reading, solving puzzles, and writing. Each day, I delved into captivating books, engaged my mind with stimulating puzzles, and poured my thoughts onto paper. We watched treasured DVDs (remember those?) on a tiny television manufactured in the late 80’s and remembered a time where other humans were the center of our connections. IT WAS MAGICAL. It turns out that humans are pretty great and when we’re not distracted by a million things that don’t matter, we can connect and fill each other up with love.
Emerging with a Renewed Sense of Purpose
As the sun bathed my mountain retreat in golden hues each morning, it served as a reminder of the infinite possibilities that lay before me. The daily cycle, spanning nearly 14 hours from dawn to dusk, symbolized the ample time we have to shape our lives. In the embrace of nature, we hiked, climbed, watched the waves, drank amazing local beer and ate tons of fish pulled fresh from the bountiful Lake Superior, rediscovering the joy of simple pleasures and the profound impact they can have on our well-being.
Balancing Work, Core Values, and Ease
Returning from my sabbatical, I find myself fueled by a renewed love for my life and my work. I also acknowledge the need to maintain balance and align my actions with my core values. Seeking more ease and less pressure, I am releasing the illusion of control, trusting that stepping forward will lead me to the net that always has and will continue to catch me.
Rest has become an act of resistance against the constant demands of the world, while trust in my heart is propelling me forward in pursuit of my purpose and celebration of the divine nature of life.
Conclusion
My sabbatical on the mountaintop in Northern Minnesota was a transformative journey of self-discovery, connection to nature, and reflection on the essence of a fulfilling life. From the captivating sounds, enchanting smells, and breathtaking sights of the Northern Shore to the awe-inspiring encounters with wildlife and the realization of finite resources, each moment was filled with profound lessons. Embracing rest, reading, puzzles, and writing rekindled a sense of wonder, imagination and creativity within me. As I emerge from this experience, I am changed. I find myself ready to pursue a life rooted in simplicity, impact, and unbridled joy.
This extraordinary adventure will forever hold a special place in my heart as a reminder of the profound beauty and wisdom that nature graciously shares with those who seek it.
