Grand Teton: Embracing Authenticity

I don’t mind rain. I actually kind of like it, as long as I’m dressed properly. Perhaps it’s the novelty; I’m from Southern California, so I don’t see nearly as much of it as my husband’s family in Washington State. Maybe it’s the effects; I adore wildflowers and green hillsides, and more immediately, the shimmer of wet rocks and rainbows. Or it could be the music; the melody of raindrops hitting the trees, bouncing into a puddle, or pounding against the hood of my jacket.

Whatever it is, rain doesn’t often slow down my plans. It may change them, but I’m generally content to forgive the intrusion and roll with it. To be sure, it has its annoyances; I’m not much a fan of mud, and I have to be even more cautious with my camera. And the clouds it comes from can obscure even the closest mountains. But when it breaks and the peaks peek out, it’s even more exciting than if I had been able to see them all along.

Many Moods

I’ve been to the Grand Tetons a number of times. I spent a whole summer working in southern Yellowstone, so it was hard to avoid them. I’ve seen them under all sorts of conditions, with all variety of colors as their backdrop. On this trip, though, almost the entire day was wet – not much in the way of color. And after the novelty wore off, it was easy to feel a twinge of disappointment. After all, this place is pretty special to me and I wanted my kids and best friend to see it in all its glory.

But then I remembered POTA. And I got to thinking that just like me, the Grand Tetons have different moods. Sometimes they’re brightly lit by the golden hour sun. Other times they’re soft and cool, reflecting in the Snake River against a purple sky. They can be dark and imposing, contrasting against the light, fluffy clouds floating overhead. Or they can be shy, hidden behind rainclouds and only peeking out when they feel like saying hello.

As an introvert, I understand the feeling. I used to think my introversion was something I needed to overcome, like a character flaw. But thanks to the work of Susan Cain, I learned to embrace this part of who I am as essential, a super-power even. Yes, much of the time I am brightly lit by the joys surrounding me. And I often end my days calm, cool, and reflective. There are times when I need to put on a brave face and stand firm in my convictions, sometimes in contrast to those around me. And while “shy” may describe me less now than it used to, my default in groups is often to hide, coming out to say hello when I’m ready.

Empowered to Shine

The Tetons weren’t ashamed of their cloudy, wet mood the day we visited. In fact, because of it, we were able to hike more than if it were bright and sunny (read: HOT!). We saw a good amount of wildlife, taking advantage of a cool afternoon to be out and about. My friend and I spied a rainbow over Colter Bay. And there was actually parking to be found on Signal Mountain.

It has been and continues to be a learning process, but I am no longer ashamed of the times I need to be quiet. It wasn’t until I learned to embrace my introversion that I was able to appreciate what it brings to the table. Whether because of nature, nurture, or design, it is who I am. And it is who I am meant to be. It’s not something I need to overcome. And though it may lead me to hide, it is not something itself to be hidden.