Brooker Creek Revisited 1/22/10

Today as I often do I took a quick trip to Brooker Creek Preserve in Northern Pinellas County. I typically find myself at the preserve on my days off. Today I was seeking to recharge the senses and gain back some mental strength.

No mountains are found here, nor are there rushing streams like those I experienced recently in the Carolinas. Today I find myself wading in ankle deep tannin-stained water. In all directions it appears that the forest has converted into hydric landscape. At about a quarter mile into the trail I realize water is starting to make its way over the top of my shoes. My fancy Gore-Tex shoes at this point become buckets of water. I trudge along through water thinking to myself that I must be the only one silly enough to hike after last night’s rain.

Though it is mid afternoon the air is quiet, the sun occasionally previews a light-blue sky. At this point I am in water past my ankles. I wonder what sort of critters may be swimming in this new aquatic environment. The occasional tadpole wiggles past my feet as I slowly work through ankle deep water.

I often tell people that Brooker Creek is a refuge not just for nature but for me. I moved to Pinellas County to be with a special someone with whom I have recently parted ways. Now it is me and the preserve. A place that I have come to admire with the upmost respect. It may appear silly to someone to think that I hold a place like Brooker Creek on such a tall pedestal, but one must consider that it is an island of green surrounded by a growing sea of concrete. There is nothing unique or sacred out at sea for all that persists are generic places of consumerism found all too often across Florida.

For those of you who have questioned my respect for this land I recommend that you visit this special place for yourself. You may be surprised at the benefits you reap. Go to the creek and get its good tidings. The occasional turkey and gopher tortoise may keep you good company as you walk amongst the sandhills. The buzzing of a mosquito will remind you that you are for this brief moment another being’s snack. As your feet sink into the cool waters remember that the trail of life is just beginning.