‘Run to the Forest’

‘Run to the Forest’ by Vivienne Briggs

Then I’ll just walk into the forest and not come back,’ he said calmly, in a very thought out manner.

The very words he spoke told me that he honestly had no idea about the forest.

The very place that he’d chosen was in fact the very essence of life and being alive.

Every sound, smell, touch, taste and sight would in fact be the very things that would ultimately save him from himself.

It was impossible to walk amongst the ancient giants and not feel connected.

Connected to a place, a time, a world where even the most damaged felt at ease, and then of course there was the healing power of green.

The beautiful birdsong would engage you, the sun filtering through the ferns would lift even the heaviest of spirits, and the sound of water trickling down a creek would soothe even the darkest of souls.

After contemplating his statement for a while, I replied that if he really wanted to stop living or feeling alive, he should simply visit the local shopping centre, or turn on the television.

Vivienne Briggs is a Tasmanian-born writer, artist, and wildlife consultant. Her work reflects her bohemian childhood, her connection with nature, and her working-class Scottish heritage.

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