Teddy

11 days without a post. Yikes. I've been in the midst of writer's block or something.

Yesterday I visited Theodore Roosevelt Island in the Potomac with some friends. It's one of the places in DC I have never been, so it was cool seeing something new. There are paths that go around the island through woods, marsh and along the river with a monument in the center. It's a nice natural haven amidst the city.

While he was president, T. Roosevelt would often take VIPs on wilderness marches along the Potomac, much to their chagrin. He was a vivacious dude who'd stomp through whatever natural obstacle was in his way: water, mud, brush and his guests would have to try and keep up. It was a favorite past time of his and I think the memorial they have on the island is appropriate for him being in the middle of a nearby bit of woods. He was a man who balanced well the scholarly life and the active life. He could hunt wild game or talk history with the best of them.

While no perfect role model, his example reminds me that an important aspect of living life more fully is to spend time amongst the trees and to read all you can. Although president by tragedy (as VP, T. Roosevelt was sworn in after William McKinley was assassinated), I believe most of his accomplishments came about because he wasn't one to waste time, always curious, and those are qualities I'd like to have as well.