Took a Drive

Over the years I’ve enjoyed going for a drive. The family liked these times together, too; we drove for maybe an hour, maybe 4. Sometimes we left the house and flipped a coin on which direction to take when a choice was next presented to us. Eventually the ride turned into a journey with unexpected delights and interests.  

Seeing Illinois in its many native seasons is interesting. In winter the long dormant land remains aslumber covered in snow and ice. In early spring the land is a deep brown, almost black, as it gives up its frost lines for spring planting, snow banks are melting, trees are mostly stark; some show signs of thickening branches with buds barely forming. Another month and the buds are more apparent, some leaves already taking their early bow of spring’s debut.  

Later crops are planted, rolling ground swells show minute green hints of early plant growth. Later of course the corn crops are giants and the soy beans lush. Cows graze and hogs slock in the mud. Trees are fully leafed out and warm breezes grow hot. Air conditioning is on but so is the CD. We watch the vast landscape pass by our windows and wonder at the magic of farming, crop health, weather conditions, and the wealth of nature blessing the Illinois ag economy with more of her bounty.

In fall we observe the colors of the coming sleep. And finally the slumber of winter. The sleeping giant awaits another spring. 

These afternoon or weekend rides clear the mind and remind us of our roots. We are Midwesterners. We are tied to the land in so many ways. We are reliant on weather and its odds of good and bad.

In the urban areas, or larger towns, lives are busy and less tied to the land. We are engulfed in dramas and stories of great complexity. But still we are at the mercy of chance, of weather, of the goodness of others, and of place. Driving around a city-scape is interesting for a short while; soon enough the chaos and congestion breeds discomfort. And the open country beckons.

Now aging and short of income, we haven’t taken a ride in maybe a year. But today we did. Yesterday was gloomy and rainy. Cool and very damp. Bleak and depressing. Today was cloudless skies, 70 degree weather, wafting breezes, spring smells and bright warming sun. The open road and open land lured us away from church and home. We took a 3 hour drive; with dog and portable water bowl for her. Good music for the CD.

We got reacquainted with the country, small towns, open roads and greening woods. The soil so brown and loamy, almost black. Ready for another round of crop growth and hope. The small towns and small but larger communities. Small town America with its own secrets and dramas. But still good living. Some with hindered futures, but most with hope for better days. Certainly this is a better day. A beautiful one.

May you have such good days ahead this summer. Get out and re-experience it. For your own peace of mind. And a reminder of our roots – of the past and our future.

May 15, 2012