Why Orienteering Is Like Writing

Orienteering season has begun. Well, actually, it began a couple of weeks ago, only I didn’t run an orange course because I had to train for the Avon Walk. Or so I said. Maybe I wasn’t ready to deal with all that frustration and humiliation and extremely likely possibility of utter failure again just yet.

But I tried again this weekend. I took a training course yesterday and felt SO excited. I found a tool that works better for me– a thumb compass. It eliminates some of the distractions for me. And I had a great day yesterday.

Not so much today. I failed. Again. I had to ask myself, as I was trudging back down the road (oh, sure, I can find the ROAD!) why I keep failing at this, over and over and over. It’s not like I’ve had much success. It’s not like anyone would care if I never did it again. It’s not like I will ever be a champion.

But yesterday, I was alone in the forest, and I found control after control on an advanced loop. And when I didn’t find one, I knew I was in the right place. I figured it out. I knew the answer.

It was exhilarating. I got the rhythm. I understood. It was mind and body and nature and life and everything all aligned and I was HAPPY.

Yeah, you know what I mean. Go get some writing done.

Oh, and by the way: I am going to win an orange course. You watch and see. I will do it.

Edit: I had to rush last night to post, so I didn’t  have time to add the art. Also, Christopher Robin had the best time of the day, for any course.

One thought on “Why Orienteering Is Like Writing

  1. Yvonne Erwin

    Oh yes, dear Barb. I know just what you mean. Often writers are “alone in the forest.” And when we figure it out, it is the best, sooooo happy. Yes, I know what you mean. So much struggle, so much travail.

    That was a great post. Inspiring. Love it.

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