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Leave Feeling Hopeful and Happy

I like to walk the Millrace Preserve in Ivoryton. It’s a historic park with a half-mile trail. The Falls River runs through it and by one of the former ivory factories. The millrace is the channel that carried water away from the factory’s mill wheel back into the river. Information boards chart the town’s history of ivory production.

Both groomed and natural-growth areas, a well-placed bench, level and clear pathways, and two hand-railed bridges crossing the river provide the opportunity for a leisurely stroll or fast-paced walk.

The shady quiet tranquility and sound of songbirds always put me at peace. They provide a refreshing time to connect with nature and also to consider the history of this stunning environment.

Unfortunately, over a million elephants’ lives were taken to supply tusks for the ivory industry. To remember and honor those magnificent animals may be difficult and sad, but in the beautiful surroundings, I can find a moment to empathize with the terrible loss of their lives, to be honest with myself, and to take seriously the tragedies in our histories.

It may not be much, but honesty and compassion offer a basis of love and concern on which I feel I can do better in the world. I usually leave the park feeling hopeful and even happy.

Gary Comstock

Essex