I have spent years exploring Western Canada.  Immersed in the woods for months at a time, living in tents and camper vans; exploring Forest Service Roads to their inevitable ends; I have absorbed the breath-taking beauty of this glorious region into my very essence.  A sense of isolation and expansiveness washes over me soon after being removed from the usual distractions of society.  Endeavoring to places that appear abandoned,  I feel a sense of peace - but also longing and sadness; thoughts and feelings that I cannot put into words.  I wish more people would see the forest for the trees!