I used to be scared

I used to be scared of walking off track. In the middle of the bush or in the forest. I was always a track follower down to my core. I wouldn’t dare go off the main path.

What if I get lost? What if I step on something I shouldn’t? What if I get scratched, bitten or roll my ankle? What if I can’t find my way back?

I never wanted to walk on the path less travelled, that path sounds like a risky, dangerous game. I was scared. And you could see this fear in all areas of my life.

I wouldn’t step off the well worn track. I wouldn’t dare. I would turn, climb, go down or up exactly when I was expected to or told to. Follow the signs, trust the warnings and don’t go wandering through unexplored territory.

My partner inspired me to start walking off track. His sense of curiosity and desire for freedom away from the perfectly curated track fascinated me.

He inspired me to ask different questions instead of the fear provoking questions circling inside my mind.

What if we don’t get lost? What if we find something no one else has ever found? What if we discover something we would’ve never found had we not been brave enough to journey off track? What if we have the best time? What if we find a quiet and private place just for us?

Wandering off track for the first time feels a little like learning to walk again. I felt so awkward and out of place. I was on high alert for any threats from animals, nature or my own inner compass.

I was scared at first.

And now? I wouldn’t have it any other way. The beauty, the magic, the peace, the nature I would’ve never had the chance to experience… had I not wandered off the track I was expected to walk.

I used to be scared of doing anything out of the ordinary and or expected,

but now?

I am a seeker of ‘off-track’ moments and feel so much more alive.

Is the expected path safe? Or is it a trap designed to box you in?

That is for you to decide.

with love,

Madison Mindet x