Abides Farm Reflection

      Before going on this retreat trip I wasn't having the best time in college. A lot of things were going on in my life and I felt suffocated in my everyday life. Being able to go on this trip during those troubled times was a blessing. As soon as we reached the mountain air, I felt like I escaped the world to a new place. The mountains were beautiful. It felt like I was riding in a painted picture of the wilderness that I have always seen as a child. The autumn leaves swaying in the wind showed me another beautiful image of nature. 

       At first we were a little afraid to meet the people that were described as "anarchist hippies." When I introduced myself to them and made conversation, they were so easy to talk to. They were open to new things and point of views. I was afraid that I wasn't able to talk to them due to our age gaps. Throughout the weekend, we found out about each other's backgrounds and cultures that made us different. Even though we were all different from one another, but we all connected because of our differences. I was able to get to know new people I haven't gotten close to yet. During our free times, we explored the woods and played games together. I love the night when we cook a meal for them. I enjoyed my time preparing food and talking with everyone. 

       When we left the farm, I felt that everything was a dream that was going to end after we past through the gates of yellow trees. I hated the fact that I had to come back to my normal life. I rather stayed there longer because I didn't want to deal with everything back home. But the trip there helped me relaxed from all the things that was going on around me and I was truly thankful about that. I hope that I will be able to come back one day and enjoy my stay once again.