CharlesWSmithFineArt

Dancing in the Sun

While making our way along the many wooded paths that wind through the forests we must pass through in our lives, often, we are most comfortable staying on the ...
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While making our way along the many wooded paths that wind through the forests we must pass through in our lives, often, we are most comfortable staying on the shaded trails, deep in the interior. The cool, blue shadows offer a respite from the hot sun and a sense of security, away from the judgmental eyes of those who may see our faults. Though the shadows are indeed cool and there is comfort in obscurity, often, the most judgmental eyes are our very own, as we tend to judge ourselves most critically. On our journey, when we are presented with a path that leads to the edge of the forest, out of the shadows and into the bright sunlight, we should not simply pass it by, for fear of what may lie in that open meadow or who may see us. It may be frightening and it may take courage, but it is a path worth traveling. Each of us deserves the opportunity to feel the warmth on our faces and to dance in the sunlight with the whole world watching.

This image was captured during one of my morning hiking-photography trips to Chalk Ridge Falls Park, just below the Stillhouse Hollow Dam, in Belton, Texas. This is the trail that leads down to the namesake falls of the park. As you walk along this section of trail, if feels like you are in a deep, dark forest, with a glowing meadow ahead of you.
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