I rose with the sun still hiding behind adjacent peaks. 

And prepared my coffee as I awaited its arrival. 

To wake up in the woods is a rare treat in my "normal" life.

I'm often so engaged in the busyness of life that whole seasons pass without ​wilderness immersion.

Flowers rise and fall without much notice as I partake in the daily commute, something always on my mind. 

Often eating breakfast while driving with my knees, usually a red traffic light or two away from being "late" for "work."

I've spent entire years, in one case half a decade, doing things I might not otherwise do if it weren't for the "money" I was offered in exchange. 

Sunday evenings were once the loneliest time of the week, dreading the onset of another week in my tidy cubicle.

I talked all day while feeling like I didn't have a voice, and soothed my frustrations at night and on weekends by singing my stories at loud volumes.

By the time I reached 27, I felt desperate for a change in my life.

I yearned for authentic connection and a harmonization between my mind, body, spirit, and the world in which I dwelt yet felt very unsure of.

I went for a long road trip and shared my now softening songs, and began to discover strength in vulnerability.

I found a job working in the wilderness, guiding adjudicated youth closer to the light as they to me did the same. 

I followed a courageous impulse and moved to Asheville, where my heart slowly broke open and love started setting me free.

I unraveled the resentments in my mind and found forgiveness in my heart while walking thru the Appalachian Mountains.

And found a loving church community that I helped lead in song, where I experienced loving acceptance and appreciation in ways previously unknown.

I've got much left to learn and work yet to do, and feel forever grateful for the wilderness and the healing effect it has had on me. 

And I'm so glad I can share a part of it with you. 

<3 Will

P.S. Here are some videos I took today: