10.31.20 // this is me.

This is me.
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This is me welcoming you into the outdoors.
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YOU are welcome here.
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All of you are welcome here!
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Diversity and inclusion in the outdoor community are lacking, severely. That is no surprise, but what I've been really surprised by lately is the gatekeeping that is happening in the outdoors, especially on social media.
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And with that daunting fact, I want to remind every single one of you here that you are welcome in nature.
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Not just welcome, but welcome to hike with me any day, welcome to breathe the fresh air, welcome to take any trail that your heart desires! I am waiting for you!
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No matter your ability level, as long as you have enthusiasm for the day and are open to the unexpected, you are welcome to join in any outdoor activity that strikes your fancy.
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What is not welcome is gatekeeping.
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To my outdoor friends:
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Remember that we all started somewhere and that the doors to nature have not always been open for all.
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Open your hearts and your minds, slow your pace, and find it in your soul to serve nature by teaching more nurturing souls about her ways.
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And as another reminder to those badass outdoor athletes... you are not too cool to go hiking. Slowing down to incorporate all levels of athletes doesn't make you weak, it makes you strong. Strong in love, connection, and empathy.
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The outdoors could use these things more than ever.