On a recent nature walk, our family discovered a vine that towered into the October sky. It was rooted in the earth and extended beyond our vision; lost in a mix of branches and clouds. From the trail it was conceivable to grab a hold of this Tarzan swing and entrust momentum and Mother Nature. Dad had to try it first. If anyone is going to plummet into the brush, it is Dad.
While Pennsylvania has been labeled a swing state, our family has swung beyond the reach of the hoopla and hysteria. I recently had a daydream where the next debate was a 90 minute commercial-free recording of a donkey and an elephant. Literally, a donkey and an elephant in the same room. There would be no moderator and no understandable communication (identical to the first debate). I would add a frog (Green Party) just for leaps and giggles; an hour and a half of watching three animals coexist. Probably would have more educational value.
The value of the vine has multiplied in recent weeks. We've done some combo swings. My 5-year-old braved the autumn air. My Dad reminisced of vine days gone by and then did the vine himself. I've been mid-air and have had trail walkers stunned to see a flying man of the forest. I've had friends reach out and give it a shot. My wife swung out and then took to social media to spread this seasonal swing.
Of course, there is danger in all of this - much like anything you do on social media. I'm less concerned about the vine snapping and more concerned about human beings typing, losing their minds, and snapping. My platform is to get off the platform. Grab a hold of the vine and appreciate what each day has to offer. Soul search over fact check.
And that my friends is an individual decision. I'm grateful to have a mind beyond that of the elephant, donkey, and Kermit. The vine has reopened my world to the innocence and splendor of youth. Health - physical, emotional, mental, spiritual - is what counts. Mother Nature has no party or agenda. Flying Dads can unite with flying squirrels without judgement.
When my oldest daughter completed her first vine adventure, it was just me and her little sister on that trail watching with pride. At the peak of her airborne excitement, she gave us a miraculous smile. I'll hold on to that image for as long as I can. She has grown into a tremendous young lady in a year full of the tiresome and the old. Together - a young lady and the vine - they are the hope. A generation of youngsters who will shape the landscape with wonder and wisdom, out of sight much like that vine lost in the clouds.
With Halloween and the election closing in, there is a lot to be scared of from poltergeist to presidential. To Johnstown and to the world at-large, I encourage you to not zombie walk into November. Find a vine.
Reach out and make a memorable experience. Surround yourself with good people. Take time to smile and laugh. Be grateful for the smiles and laughs that swing back in your direction.
