Stop!
Turn 180 degrees.
What do you see now?
A whole new vista opens up.
So many more things to explore.
What are you waiting for?
Take a stroll!
Have you ever found yourself taking the same direction each time you take a familiar trail, maybe out of a sense of comfort? I know I have. It’s a comforting routine, and it often happens to us all. This spring, as I set out on my quest for Lady Slipper photos, I found myself reflecting on this very habit. The image I have for sale on the main page is from our second year in Elliot Lake, a cherished memory. This year, I didn’t discover any at all.
One of my favourite places to walk is the Sheriff Creek Wildlife Sanctuary, where the trails offer a sense of peace and connection. The Red Trail, in particular, has two informative signs about Lady Slippers, leading me to believe they might be nearby. As spring melted into summer, I worried that it might be another off-year to see them. I’ve experienced this before, especially with the yellow Lady Slippers near Highway Beach, near Iroquois Falls, where they bloom in cycles—sometimes flourishing, sometimes not.
Recently, I decided to explore the Red Trail in reverse. I can’t help but apologize for the out-of-focus picture I took, but what mattered more was the discovery I made. I stumbled upon a group of seven spent Lady Slippers that had been hidden from my view because of the direction I’d taken; a tree trunk had obscured them. It was a bittersweet moment, as just a little further down the trail, I found an area filled with spent Slippers that resembled a small flower bed. I was left feeling disappointed, not just for missing them but for not fully appreciating that I need to stop and take time to look around me.
This experience reminded me of the importance of shifting our perspectives and trying new directions. When we step outside our comfort zones, we open ourselves to hidden talents and interests that can enrich our lives. In times of change, adapting our paths encourages resilience and fosters creativity. Whether in our careers, relationships, or pursuits like photography, being willing to explore different directions can lead to a more fulfilling journey. It’s a gentle reminder that life has so much to offer if we remain open and curious.
Regards,
Peg Lariviere