July 12, 2001
I went to The Little Big Horn National Park today. I love the talks at The National Parks, the rangers really know their stuff and do great presentations. What I carried away today was how these Native Americans prepared spiritually for battle. Using a mirror they would carefully apply their warpaint in such a way to enhance their confidence, pride, and strength. As they looked into the mirror they willed a good day, one of action and positive results. When they went to fight they wore their best clothes and focused their minds on victory instead of fear or death. Their attitude was their greatest weapon.
I try to take in as much as I can and when I returned to my campsite I was very tired. I ate dinner, and read until dark. In the glow of my Coleman lantern, I’m sheltered from the darkness. In my cocoon of light, I can’t see the rest of the world and I don’t care if the world sees me. I’m in my own little world, a creature of the light. It defines me and holds me safe in its warmth.
It’s funny that I’m not really afraid of the dark. So many times I have walked down my country road at night from, my neighbor, Leona’s house and back to my own home. Is not being afraid of the dark a prerequisite for being free and being able to travel alone?
Here within the slower tempo of this trip, I have time to think and question myself. I seem to have the strength and courage for big things but am I brave enough to handle everyday conflicts and disagreements? Have I really learned to effectively stand up for myself? I have fifty more days to figure it out.
Good night, Light. Good night, Darkness.
The Autonomous Traveler 
Great country out there, one has to take a trip like you did to experience and appreciate what you saw.
Zeus
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, there are a lot of great places to see and a lot of nice people to meet!
LikeLike
Beautiful photos! I agree with you, Parks Canada Rangers ate very knowledgeable about their sector of our beautiful country. Just learn a great deal about the Beothuks who are now extinct. The last Beothuck, a woman, died in 1926. From her, historians learn a great deal about their lives and customs and were able to add to their interpretation center in Trinity. At this location, we left a gift to the spirits. In the spirit garden, hundreds of offering hang from trees making the location magical.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sound wonderful!
LikeLike
Hello, Autonomous! You are very brave to travel alone, especially camping! Good for you! Thank you for following my blog. Enjoy!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I took the 70 Days, 7000 Mile trip in 2001 when I was 52. At age 69, I still camp alone from time to time. I take a lot of solo trips. I love to go to a city for 10 days and do what I call “urban hiking” to explore and talk to people. I am going to India in the fall with a tour group. I have an insatiable curiosity! I have to keep seeing and learning. Please be one of my followers. Knowing that there are people coming along on my journey pushes me to keep writing.
LikeLike