Charlotte Fowler- Reflection of American Camino, Chapter 6

    In Chapter 6 of American Camino by Dr. Redick, there is a section that discusses the exegeting and rescripting of one's life-story. How someone tells their life story is dependent on their own unique experiences and how they interpret meaning of life. I like the inserted quote from Paul Ricoeur, “construction of a life-story is necessary to give shape and meaning to one’s experience.” I feel like I can take this conversation in multiple directions just from this one quote but the first thing that came to mind when reading this section of the chapter was the value of who we choose to experience our life with. I think who we go through life with is crucial aspect to how meaning is determined for each experience. I saw this idea somewhere that talked about a reason we crave a long-term relationship with a person is because we want to have someone to be a witness to our lives. It increases purpose and value of life. A story often feels meaningless unless it is intended on being told and shared. 

    Another direction for this discussion is the promotion of therapy by professional and how it is more widely accepted. Sometimes we may need assistance in the interpretation of experiences or meaning of life in general. Although a therapist will not be able to write our life story for us, they are a useful tool of guidance in the process of exegeting life story This chapter discusses a kind of exposure to nature that can act as a form of individual therapy. People will immerse themselves into the woods to escape the busyness of life, away from the distractions, pressures, and influences of society. They are able to dwell in their own headspace and think for themselves as they figure out what they truly want in life, what is important to them, or to reflect on complicated experiences. I appreciate how Redick describes the pilgrims practice of hiking on the AT as an opportunity for new possibilities when distancing themselves from the natural attitude of life. You are able to discover the potential of your mind as you challenge your thoughts in a calm, undistracting environment.

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