It's supposed to be a challenge

Rubin puts it into perspective in the video clip above, when he states to Kyle:

"It’s supposed to be a challenge. That’s why they call it a shortcut, if it was easy, it would just be the way."

I’ve had this quote in my head for over 15 years. Life just isn’t that easy, and if you have difficulty compartmentalizing your thoughts and feelings, like me, then you may find yourself hoping the shortcut is the way.

We desire the shortest distance from point A to B, but it’s human nature to fall in line instead of branching out and taking a chance, because it might lead to failure. Psychological and social qualities that characterize humankind compose the ideology of Human Nature, especially when in contrast with other living things. It's essentially the most common way in which we think, feel, and act. It’s the norm, a sense of comfort, but at the same time, if you want more out of your life, it can feel like a prison.

I am confident that in my life, Human Nature hugs me like a warm family member. As much as I care for my family ("love you, Mom"), the norm gives me a sense of comfort, which in turn creates inattentiveness and a lethargic mind.

Lately, I have been looking back at my past and mapping a timeline, hopefully spelling out why I am wired the way I am. This is one step I'm taking towards breaking through the brick wall that is Human Nature. Hopefully it will also allow me the opportunity to rise above my thoughts and self-doubt.

Studies show, nature inspires, heals, and gives our minds the ability to think openly and clearly. To me, that's what this is all about and grants more freedom in my life than anything else. I choose to live with a connection to nature. I'm kinda obsessed, always seeking a bond with the outdoors, and to be honest, if I'm not out there immersed or challenging myself, I kind of get depressed.

Saturating myself in nature has always led to challenging my consciousness and forced me to live out of my comfort zone, inevitably expanding it. Nature is rather unpredictable wether it be, weather, rock face, river, or snow fall, you can't always foresee what mother nature is going to throw at you. As nerve-racking as that might sound to some, to me it's a challenge and gauge of my self awareness.