When daily life feels monotonous, many of us crave a change of scenery. Whether it’s the city mouse dreaming of serene forests or the country mouse longing for bustling streets, this desire for something different is natural and perhaps even healthy. During busy seasons, we seek solitude to reflect and pray for grace. In quieter times, we look for excitement to break free from our routines.
Living in a rural county surrounded by golden hills, wild rivers, and snow-capped mountains offers a peaceful, natural beauty. However, the human features here are few and familiar. I enjoy visiting vibrant urban areas where artists and entrepreneurs create a colorful tapestry of life. These trips provide a refreshing contrast to the sameness of my small town.
On Bainbridge Island, Washington, I once saw an elderly man jogging in the rain while juggling. This unusual sight struck me as the ultimate Alzheimer’s prevention exercise—combining physical and mental fitness. It’s not something I’d expect to see on my hometown’s rugged mountain trails, where hikers focus on navigating steep paths with water bottles and GPS devices.
In Surprise, Arizona, I marveled at a softball league of older men, radiating health and camaraderie. Unlike my rural community, where seniors tend to live more isolated lives, these men showed how urban spaces can offer rich social experiences and fitness opportunities.
Urban areas nestled in natural settings draw me out of my rural routine. I oscillate between gratitude for my mountain community’s beauty and a longing for the dynamic energy of urban life. The mix of human experiences and cultural variety fills my creative well, reminding me of the Psalmist’s words:
“Oh, that I had wings like a dove! I would fly away and be at rest.” (Psalm 55:7, KJV)
If you find yourself stuck in a rut, perhaps a change of scenery is just what you need—whether that means exploring the quiet of nature or the buzz of a new city.
Sydney Avey is the author of The Sheep Walker’s Daughter.
