Come Together

It is not hard to find things that divide and keep people separate in our society. Both traditional and electronic media are full of talking heads who make money shouting at the other guy and their fans shout along with them from the comfort of their screens. Imagine a world where people can’t hide behind their “pages” and have to share an experience with strangers. It happens at York River and other Virginia State Parks. And, usually, the encounters are very good.

Common Ground

The shared experience can be anything from a long distance hike and paddle, scheduled Junior Ranger program, or an unexpected encounter with a rare bird. Socio-political opinions tend to get squelched when people discover something in the outdoors for the first time. Personal pride is put aside when one reaches out a hand for or to help someone cross a stream along the trail. The ground and water is common for people of all backgrounds. It is here that we are all enriched and recreated by the natural world.

Guided Together

The experience is highlighted by the interpreter. We serve as intermediaries between our guests and the things they observe. Through a combination of friendliness and knowledge, we enhance the atmosphere of common ground. A good interpreter does not overwhelm visitors with facts and figures.  We share the beauty and wonder that we see every day with whomever walks and wades with us. The voices of divisive opinion polls can be outweighed by welcoming guides and outdoor discoveries.

Impromptu interpretation

And sometimes the welcome comes from the guests themselves. Our most recent Kid’s Fishing Fanatic Tournament was a bust with only one fish caught. A couple of the kids started catching minnows and tadpoles with their hands. Two other kids brought little dip nets along with them in a bucket. As one program failed, another was started with friendships made as well. Then the kids at heart got involved as a couple of adults shared the Tenkara fishing technique with the children and their parents. No screen could have facilitated what happened that day.

Live beyond our screens

The summer season is closing down. We have a charged presidential campaign season with everyone airing their opinions on hash tags, pages, and tweets of bitter views of the opposing side. Perhaps, someday, we will learn to overcome socio-political differences with hands, nets, and fishing poles. Until we do, let’s savor those moments when we leave our screens behind to meet people on the common ground of the park. Perhaps we should resolve to make more of these moments for us and our children.

Directions to York River State Park

From I-64, take the Croaker Exit 231B. Go north on Route 607 (Croaker Rd.) for one mile, then right on Route 606 (Riverview Rd.) about one and a half miles to the park entrance. Take a left turn into the park.