The Stars at Night Are Big and Bright Deep in the Heart of Texas
I couldn’t help but feel a sense of stillness and peace surrounding me, as I set out on my midnight hike through the Texas countryside. The rustling of the wind and the whirring oscillation of night bird’s pinions seemed thunderous in the primordial darkness, reminding me of the power and majesty of nature. Navigating the jagged rocks of a dried river bed with nothing but the drops of starlight that dripped onto the earth and splashed back into the hungry blackness of my dilated pupils made this not a leisurely walk through the woods, but a transformative experience, reminiscent of a vision quest or initiation ritual. I believe that everyone should take the time to undertake a similar journey. The benefits are immeasurable.
I’ve long been an advocate for the responsible use of psychedelics, as they have the power to alter our perceptions and offer us a glimpse into the depths of our own consciousness. Hiking provides a different kind of transformation. It’s a way to connect with the natural world, to become one with the environment and tap into the rhythms of nature. Hiking is a form of psychotherapy, helping us to gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
As I walked, I couldn’t help but reflect on the role of psychedelics in ancient tribal ceremonies. Just as these rituals were used to help people gain insight into their own lives and find inner peace. Hiking offers us a chance to connect with the natural world and find balance within ourselves. The stillness of nature is like a balm for the soul, calming our minds and helping us to gain a sense of self-awareness.
I’ve often said that nature is not something to be striven against. Rather, it is a part of ourselves, to be cherished and explored. The air we breathe, the birds that fly overhead, and the silent, lovely night all play an important role in our well-being. As we hike, we become attuned to these influences, allowing them to shape and mold us into better, more self-aware individuals.
In the coming year, cultural shock-waves generated by the emergence of visible language will transform our society until we reach the point beyond the end of history, the entry into hyperspace. In a similar way, hiking can change our perceptions, allowing us to see the world in a new light. Through our experiences, we come to understand the nature of reality in a way that is beyond our ordinary senses.
I’ve always maintained that nature is the center of our being, not just something to be used and forgotten. Hiking is a way to reconnect with that center, to tap into the life force that animates everything around us. As we hike, we engage in a form of self-discovery, uncovering new aspects of ourselves and learning to appreciate the beauty of the world in new and unexpected ways.
For those who are interested in getting started with hiking, my advice is to start small and gradually increase the intensity of your walks. As you become more comfortable, you can start to explore more challenging terrain, including steep hills and rocky trails. Pay attention to your body, and if you’re feeling tired or sore, take a break and rest. The goal is to find balance and to connect with the environment in a way that is safe, enjoyable, and above all: meaningful.
Lace up your boots, grab a backpack, and head out into the great outdoors. Your journey awaits.
