Think about that word for a minute. Recreation – a compound of “re” and “creation.” The idea that you build something anew. That you do it over again. That you start with a clean slate and without all of the baggage you normally carry. It’s a powerful word, and one that we throw around far too casually to fully appreciate it’s meaning.
This past weekend, I had the opportunity to head down to Eugene to recreate on the trails to Spencer’s Butte. It was a great weekend and, despite the heat and humidity, I absolutely loved both the hike to the top of the hill and the gorgeous view from the summit. You’re at the highest point around for miles. The whole of the Willamette valley is stretched out before you with mountain ranges on either side. Houses are reduces to Monopoly proportions, and the only other creatures sharing your perspective are the hawks and turkey vultures soaring overhead.
Standing on top of the hill, making myself literally the tallest thing around for miles in any direction, I watched a hawk launch itself from a tree below me and soar off down the valley. I watched him glide through the air, bank near a tree, and take a steep dive down onto some unsuspecting prey. All the time, though, I was above the hawk. Not watching from below, or from off to the left, but watching from above the raptor as it soared through the air.
If you’ve ever dreamt of flying before, you know exactly what I’m talking about here. Even standing still on a rock, I could feel the freedom of flight resonating through me as, for a moment, I lived vicariously through the hawk. It reminded me of all the dreams I’ve had and high goals of achievement I’ve set for myself.
There are always times where I feel like I haven’t accomplished much – but times like this force me to sit back and reflect on how fortunate I have been in life and just how much I have been able to do thus far. A special thanks goes to my friend Elaine for suggesting the hike up the hill and giving me time to think 
If you’ve never been to the top of the butte (or any local summit), you’re really missing out on an incredible experience. Take some time to head out there with a friend or two. Even if recreation isn’t your goal, I doubt you’ll make it through the trip without at least one life-refining (or maybe even a life-defining experience).
Great post! I too have been thinking about the etymology of words like recreation myself a lot lately. The reference in your post to nature and your contemplative feeling while on your hike reminds me a lot of a book I was reading called “A Space For God” by Don Postema.