Stop and Explore

No matter what stage in life you are in, there is a lesson we continually need to learn. The lesson is this: stop and explore. In an age of speed, we can get wrapped up in fast cars, instant rebates, and quick tax refunds. The idea of stopping is one that is necessary in this day and age.

Next time you are driving down the road and see a sign for a state park or landmark, stop. Get out of your car and explore. I know people are busy with responsibilities and have a schedule to keep, but there is something inherently exciting about stopping to explore, even if it is something small.

I learned this lesson while driving back and forth from college to my hometown. I would take the same route every time. I could almost drive the 5-hours with my eyes closed. That is, until I started to truly look around me. I decided to deviate from the shortest, most direct route home. I took side streets and investigated those little brown signs that designate historical sights and parks.

Here are a few gems I found along my trip home. One of my first discoveries was of the largest waterfall in Indiana called Cataract Falls. It is just a few minutes off of I-70 near Cloverdale. The waterfall’s highest fall is 30m tall and set next to an old covered bridge. When approaching it, one can hear it before one can see it as the water rushes over its lofty edge.

Another discovery was just south Bedford at Bluespring Caverns. I was driving past and saw their small sign. I drove past it initially, but the sign beckoned to my curious nature so I turned around to investigate. I am so glad I did because Bluespring Caverns is a system of caves that span over 20 miles. Knowledgeable tour guides give boat rides through a sub-terrain river which would be pitch black without the guide’s lamp. Visitors learn about the history of the caves as well as the marine life that lives in the caves.

These are just two gems that I unearthed while on a typical ride home. What are some gems that you are missing out on? Slow down, and look around you. Who knows what you are missing out on...