I live very close to the Potomac River, where it is thin enough that you can easily see the other side. I am on the Maryland shore, and the opposite bank is Virginia. Whenever I have the chance, I like to walk with my family along the C&O Canal, where we can see the great river up close.
The Potomac is known to be dangerous. It looks like a short swim could easily take you to the opposing bank, but it’s treacherous. Even when the surface appears calm, some undercurrents can pull you down without warning. The rocky bottom is filled with great tree limbs and even whole trees that wash down when the rains are strong. These are hidden below sight level. The National Park Service does a good job of putting signage up explaining the dangers and encouraging people to stay out of the water.
The trails alongside the river banks are always changing, and it is not unusual to view all kinds of wildlife, including Blue Herons, large snapping turtles, deer, and foxes. And, of course, the people who come to enjoy it all. The picture above captures my wife, Laura, daughter, Ruchi, and canine companion, Kaya, along with me on a recent sunny day when we ventured out together to enjoy the trails, the river, and the woods. It is a treasure to be so close to natural beauty.
I am grateful for easy and safe access to such a powerful, beautiful river winding its way toward the sea. How is nature part of your life, and how can you appreciate it in the week ahead?
“No man ever steps in the same river twice, for it’s not the same river, and he’s not the same man.”
– Heraclitus
