I just returned from a refreshing long weekend in San Fransisco. It was a magical time: skating in the city, partying in Berkeley, and wandering in Oakland. I feel grateful for the experience and fulfilled from its adventure. I came to a realization there; one that may only happen in a place as unique as the San Fransisco Bay area.
Frolicking inside the city and frolicking outside the city are very different activities. Yet both are activities I very much enjoy. Being in the city, among the turbulence of human density, is like running through a pinball machine. But being in a more rural place, without the turmoil of modernity, is like jogging across a bocce ball court. I appreciate each equally for their individual pros and cons, but that, in and of itself, creates conflict for me. The grass is always greener …
Out surfing, hiking, or even just sitting with a view makes me feel fulfilled and present in the best way. But always, eventually, I feel like I need to get back to my element. As a skateboarder, that is concrete, the ultimate symbol of man-made development and an antithesis of nature.
Frolicking inside the city and frolicking outside the city are very different activities. Yet both are activities I very much enjoy. Being in the city, among the turbulence of human density, is like running through a pinball machine. But being in a more rural place, without the turmoil of modernity, is like jogging across a bocce ball court. I appreciate each equally for their individual pros and cons, but that, in and of itself, creates conflict for me. The grass is always greener …
Out surfing, hiking, or even just sitting with a view makes me feel fulfilled and present in the best way. But always, eventually, I feel like I need to get back to my element. As a skateboarder, that is concrete, the ultimate symbol of man-made development and an antithesis of nature.
Concrete Jungle
When deep in "the element”, I can’t describe the excitement I feel. I’ve had best friends, family members and significant others all tell me that I never smile as much as I do when I’m “just skating." Yet still, after skateboarding and inhabiting a bustling city for weeks at a time, I feel a strong draw toward the other side. A natural setting brings natural sensation. It’s healthier and more sustainable. But it lacks metropolitan adventure.
I feel pride and guilt simultaneously; I’m proud of the time I’ve committed to this hobby that I consider not just worthwhile but amazing! Yet, I sense guilt for encouraging the utility of this destructive concrete playground in lieu of mother nature’s original palace. There’s an ambience of impurity within the concentrated purity of skateboarding and city life which I constantly seek.
"Finding a balance" is the most over-used way of expressing this, but it’s crucial to create harmony in all endeavors.
If you’ve got it, hold on. For the rest of us, keep testing.
- 7Ply Epic
I feel pride and guilt simultaneously; I’m proud of the time I’ve committed to this hobby that I consider not just worthwhile but amazing! Yet, I sense guilt for encouraging the utility of this destructive concrete playground in lieu of mother nature’s original palace. There’s an ambience of impurity within the concentrated purity of skateboarding and city life which I constantly seek.
"Finding a balance" is the most over-used way of expressing this, but it’s crucial to create harmony in all endeavors.
If you’ve got it, hold on. For the rest of us, keep testing.
- 7Ply Epic
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