(Written 9/22/2021)

A friend and I hiked up a hearty slice of incline in southern California’s desert a midmorning or two ago. We had decently heavy packs on (we were hiking in a tent, food, and water to stay the night). The sun was behind us and as we walked, our shadows dressed the ground in front of us that took up most of our view because of the steep ascent. Our conversation for a couple minutes was occupied by playing with the poetic word pictures they inspired.

We were incensed that our shadows were lazy enough to not only make us carry all the gear but to push them up the hill as well.

If one were to cast off their shadow, would they be lighter?

Would I want to dispel my shadow? Darkness attached, familiar, mirroring my every fiber.

If we were to turn, to walk towards the sun, would our shadows propel us? Is there a way in life to allow our shadows to push us forward? Is it when we turn towards the Son? (hopelessly cliché Christianese pun, but worth including) 🙂

Some fun with words and shadows.

-LS