Floating On

• And we'll all float on okay

  And we'll all float on okay

  And we'll all float on okay

  And we'll all float on alright
• Already we'll all float on

  Now don't you worry we'll all float on alright

  Already we'll all float on alright

  Don't worry we'll all float on
• Alright, Already

  And we'll all float on alright

  Already we'll all float on alright

  Don't worry even if things end up a bit

  Too heavy we'll all float on alright

  
  

  
  

  Modest Mouse had it right in their song "Float On." No matter what happens, "we'll all float on alright."

  
  

  At least, that's how it felt to be on the Trinity River the night of September 18th. Every worry seemed to disappear while out on the water that overcast night (kind of negating the idea of a "Full Moon Paddle," but beautiful nonetheless). From the experiences I have had being out on water, this has revealed itself as a common theme: when out on the water, life beyond the water fades away.
  
  This trip, however, was my first attempt at canoeing, and thus there was a significant learning curve. The first half an hour or so of the trip involved far too dramatic turns, frequent collisions, and general dysfunctional movement. Once I achieved a basic grasp of steering, though, it was mostly smooth floating from there.
  
  I noticed that I was much more aware of my surroundings while on the water than I normally am on land. Birds and crickets chirping, the power of the wind, the descending of darkness, the different shades of blue of the water; everything became more crisp and clear. I truly appreciated everything I saw, heard, and experienced, including, of course, what came into view in the picture above.
  
  When we rounded the final bend of the nearly five mile canoe journey, with about half a mile remaining, a picturesque view of downtown Fort Worth showed itself. One of the most breathtaking views I have come across recently, I found myself mesmerized by the skyline outlined in lights. It was a surreal moment and surreal glide to shore, something I will not forget for some time to come.
  
  As I truly observed the Trinity River for the first time, I noticed a river with amazing qualities, but also some issues. Clearly pollution has hit the river, a concern that will only grow if held unchecked. Yet, the river still holds a majestic quality that only water can produce. The flowing of water, the natural glide, is a wonder of nature. As the Trinity continues to flow on, so life continues to float on, and both will float on all right.