Navigating the Wilderness: Stories of Getting Lost and Finding Your Way

Imagine yourself somewhere in the forest. You cannot find your way to get back home. What are your sensations?

I feel scared and lost. I have no idea where I am or how to get back home. My heart is racing and I'm starting to sweat. My thirst is increasing, and I'm struggling to find any clear path forward.

A Heartrending Encounter

Born close to swampy woods, moss grows on the north side of trees heading south. Note: This quote may not directly relate to the experience of getting lost, but rather provides a reference to a natural phenomenon. I will stick to the narrative centered around the real-life lost experience.

This did happen to me when I was 6 years old. We lived in the country, and I was wandering outside of our home when I heard a fire truck down the road. I saw a group of children running in pursuit of the fire truck. I was in awe of the children chasing the fire truck. I wanted to see where everyone was going. I ran with them chasing the fire truck. I didn't know any of the children but happily ran along with them.

It was early evening, and we ran for some time before I realized that it was getting quite dark. I looked around, and I found that I was alone in a wooded area. I had no idea where I was and how to get home. I remember that I was frightened and walked for a considerable time until I saw a light coming from a small country grocery store. I remembered how to get home from that store.

When I returned home, my mother was ironing clothes and listening to a radio program I think it was called Mr. and Mrs. North. We had no TV in 1949. My mother didn't seem concerned that I was outside after dark and never asked me where I was. I never told anyone about the night I was lost, and that some guiding force led me to safety. Yes, a guiding force that I now know was my guardian angel.

What to Do When You're Lost

If I were lost, I can't say what my sensations would be until I am actually lost, but I would immediately begin to use my senses. What do I hear? Do I hear the sounds of a distant highway, someone cutting timber, or the sound of running water? Do I see the lichen on trees pointing out which is north, which way is the terrain sloped? You always want to head downhill and find a creek, stream, or river to follow.

Understanding the Natural Compass

Use the lichens since they are a natural compass. They grow on rocks and trees and always face the north in large groups. Know where you started from, and you won't get lost.

Conclusion

When faced with the fear of the unknown, it’s important to channel your instincts and use every resource at your disposal. Whether it's knowing how to use natural signs like moss and lichens or simply remembering familiar landmarks, finding your way back is often a matter of perseverance and trust in your inner guide. Whether it’s a guardian angel or just your own intuition, let it steer you safely back to where you belong.