This isn’t a rant about the lonely male epidemic. I choose not to talk to humans as much as possible. Clearly my immediate family are an exception. As well as people that I see on a trail, on the course, or anyone walking a pet. They’re obviously people worth acknowledging. Sometimes.
This is more so about the great friends that I make in the woods. The most common new acquaintances that I meet are: rabbits, tortoises, lots of squirrels, mice, snakes, dolphins, sharks, and a whole lot of birds. These aren’t the critters that I seek when out on photo shoots, but the ones that I meet when I’m out having fun outdoors. Be it hiking, running, surfing, paddling, biking, or playing a round of disc golf.
Let’s get this out right now. Yes, I talk to all of them. Why wouldn’t I. I’m not rude.
I do all of the things that I do to get away from cars and people. Online I often see people making online requests to meet up with strangers for a session, ride, or round. Why? I see people blasting music on their bikes or on their disc carts. Why? Is it a fear of being alone with your thoughts?
My wife can tell when I haven’t left the house. Touching grass and talking to animals is what keeps me sane. If I’m inside all day, I follow too much news and all of the shit that humans do. And it all drives me crazy.
The friends that I make outdoors are all that I need. They keep me sane, and I do everything that I can to keep them alive. I’m sure that I’ll write something about that some day.