My friends and I moved away deep in the forest, our laughter blending with the whispering of the trees, as the sparking ashes of twilight started to dance in the last of the light. I was given an important assignment of getting firewood, and I excitedly headed into the forest, sure that I could find my way around the experienced paths. But as the last of the day was absorbed by the thick canopy overhead and the shadows lengthened, I realized with a accurate sense that I had wandered off course, the solace-giving noises of my companions vanishing into the distance behind me. Alone with the massive guardians of the natural world, a feeling of adventure combined with an increasing anxiety as I thought about the challenges that live ahead in this wilderness.
I couldn’t get rid of the thrill that comes with discovery as I made my way deeper into the forest and inhaled the clean aroma of pine. The sound of cracking twigs and rustling leaves accompanied my every step, creating a symphony of whispers from nature directing me. However, as the sun set and the sky turned into a place of shadows, a feeling of doubt started to chip away at my assurance. The once-familiar scenery appeared to change and blur with every instant that went by, and my friends’ distant calls got dimmer and dimmer until the solitude of the wilderness overtook them. I felt panicking coming on, but I forced myself to be composed and trusted my senses.
I was overcome with relief as I came upon the flickering shine of a far away campfire after what seemed like an eternity of drifting through the forest’s labyrinth, each minute filled with a mixture of suspicion and hope. With my heart racing in excitement, I pushed up my speed and drew closer till I could finally see my companions’ faces lit up by the dancing flames. Among the jokes and chitchat, I discovered a haven in their comfortable society. I came over, exhausted and happy at the same time, and was met with hugs and worried looks. Thankful for their warmth, both actual and metaphorical, I told them about my adventure, the stress of the experience disappearing in the calming embrace of companionship.