Kings of the Trail #120
- Luke Jarman
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Go Further & Explore More...
"Life is like a 10-speed bicycle. Most of us have gears we never use.”
Charles M. Schulz
When Charles Schulz introduced his comics to the world in the early 1950s, they presented a view that was very different from the usual heroes, villains and slapstick comedy shown on the funny pages of the National papers. Here were childlike characters expressing opinions and thoughts on serious adult topics, even touching on taboo subjects such as loneliness, faith, depression and despair…with a subtle humour and simplicity that further emphasised the point and allowed for serious contemplation. The reader was given an insight into the character’s feelings and emotions, often with only a subtle pen stroke, negating the need for words. Characters such as Charlie Brown vocalised the feelings many in America at the time were feeling; a sense of loss and pain, but all while keeping it ‘warm and fuzzy’ and therefore easy to read and digest. That same sense of seriousness, presented in a fun and childlike way, is evident in the quote above and is perfectly fitting from the creator of Peanuts and Snoopy. As adults, we often lose that sense of fun and adventure, drowning in the seriousness of everyday life while trying to make meaning of the bigger questions we face. Maybe, in these moments, we should try to heed Lucy’s words of advice to Charlie Brown when he complains about depression and “snap out of it”…find some other gears and get on with enjoying the beauty, variation and fun that life can present when we open ourselves up to it. It won’t rid us of the real difficulties, panic, anxiety and struggle we all face, but it may help to process and deal with it all a little bit better…
Until next week, be safe and enjoy the trails...
Running coach, Andrew Kastor, has worked with Olympians and professional runners, so he knows a thing or two… Here is his advice on how to get out there and get running…
These five top hiking destinations will get your feet itching to be on the move and exploring the world…
Often the best way to learn is by doing it yourself, but listening to those who have achieved something similar is a good place to start…
Volunteer-led groups are making it easier for people who don’t feel at home on the trails to find a community and sense of belonging…
📸 Peneda-Gerês National Park, Portugal
Each week, I update the Kings of the Trail playlist with a new selection of music. Like trail runs or hikes, the playlist will be varied and eclectic, but hopefully, there will be something for everyone to enjoy…
Simple, uplifting and entertaining…much like the Peanuts comic strips, this little jazz piano tune is a good one for this week’s selection. Aptly titled: “Play it Again, Charlie Brown”…
Comments