Permit yourself to ask what-if. You may find a more pleasurable way through life.
How many times do we travel to our destinations; without any interest in the way we are using to get there?
While out wandering recently, I found myself at the top of the trail to the Log Cabin Pavilion at Eagle Point Park in Dubuque, Iowa. I’ve visited here many times, but this time positioned looking down the 25 steps to the bottom, decided I would make the hike with curiosity asking “what-if” along the way.
Traversing The Path
Visiting this spot many times before, I’ve always walked down and up on the right side of the railing. What-if today, I stayed on the worn path on the left? What I was pleased to find was a more relaxed walk with little exertion needed. There was little fear of tripping on the uneven steps. And, I was able to enjoy the view the whole way.
At the bottom, what-if I walked on top of the rock fence? What different views would there be for a photo? What I found was the ability to see better through the budding trees. I was also able to add flow and dimension to the picture by bringing the roofline of the pavilion into view.
And then, walking back, still using the more easygoing path, I was able to look up to experience a different view of this famous water tower.
Fun Facts About Eagle Point Park
Wanting to know a little more, I did a little research about the park. First, the idea for the Eagle Point Park was born in 1907 when Charles M. Robinson visited Dubuque and declared, “I have never seen a where the Almighty has done more and mankind less, than Dubuque.”
In June of 1908, one hundred acres were purchased with the development of the park in mind. The Union Electric Company constructed the track, turnaround and wait-station, bringing streetcar service there in 1912. There was even a “bathing beach” available for park-goers before the 1933 development of Lock and Dam No. 11.
Second, Pavilions in the park were built in the 1930s as part of a WPA (Works Progress Administration) project in Eagle Point Park in Dubuque. The WPA was a project President Franklin D. Roosevelt created and part of his New Deal plan to bring the United States out of the Great Depression.
Choosing Your Path
Of course, we certainly can walk on the path with the jagged steps, but what-if we decided to go with the flow and walked the more natural way instead?
What if we focused more often on what is splendid and magnificent, and brings pleasure?
Along our path each day, what if listening to our hearts brought a more relaxed way to life? That’s they way I’d like to live.
Which way would you choose?
Share this post
|
I am an influencer of optimism, positivity & love. By acting on my dreams, I hope to inspire others to do the same. Being where my feet are means that we live in the moment with curiosity, creativity, courage & compassion. Live your happiest, best life. You’ll find resources and stories mostly on subjects like travel, van living, exploring, yoga, and photography on this site. It’s my hope you will be inspired to do something you’ve always wanted to do too. Say YES, take that first step. |
Follow along! Kirsti’s vision is to enjoy life with passion and curiosity. Kirsti Out Wandering aspires to exemplify well-being in mind, body & spirit, giving unconditional love to self and others, and pursuing all of the wild possibilities life serves up while living full-time from a sprinter van. She offers a monthly roundup that includes stories and tips on travel & exploring, van living, self-care, photography and service.