Trinity Canoe Trip

Trinity Canoe Trip

Our class canoe trip on the Trinity river was scheduled for an extremely busy week for me. I was feeling overwhelmed with classes and when I saw the email about the trip, I felt another layer of stress rest on me. During that week, I viewed it as just one more thing I didn’t have time to do. However, when the day came for us to go, I grew with excitement. I realized I had let myself become engulfed in my school work and I needed a break. I knew this class trip was just what I needed to relax and put some things into perspective.

As we carried our canoe down to the water, I couldn’t contain myself from laughing. I had never been canoeing in my life and here I was struggling just to carry the boat to the water. I knew an interesting adventure lie ahead.

After almost tipping the boat getting into the canoe, Catherine and I were finally on the water. We struggled to get the hang of it at first. While everyone else was going straight, we would zig from side to side and run into the rocks on the side of river. I found myself becoming frustrated with my lack of ability to keep the boat going straight for more than a few minutes. However, I tried to focus on my surroundings. While the water was still and it was upsetting to see quite a bit of trash floating in the river, the trees surrounding the water were beautiful. The sky’s various shades were eye catching. It was such a peaceful experience. There were parts of the trip when it felt like we weren’t in Fort Worth.

After a couple hours in, I grew tired. When the sun had set and I found myself wondering how much further we had to go. Again, I pushed the negative thoughts out of my mind and was appreciative to get such a nice study break outside—something I would have never tried myself. One of the most stunning views of the trip was when we turned the dark corner and saw downtown Fort Worth illuminated in the distance. It was interesting to see the city in which I live from such a different perspective. It reminded me that there’s no reason to become bored and mundane in my everyday life. There are always new things to try.

I know the canoe trip was intended to be peaceful and relaxing, which it was to some extent. However, for me it was an eye-opening experience. It was a new experience for me that sparked in me a desire to try new things. I knew I loved being outdoors, yet I have limited experience with outdoor activities. Due to this trip, I now want to have more outdoor experiences and find the little pockets of nature within this city.