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It was day three of my trip to Belfast, and my cousin and I decided to partake in a bus tour along the coast of Northern Ireland. At the time we booked this tour, it seemed like a fantastic way to see the beauty of the country; however, it seemed like less of a great plan when we were slightly jetlagged, partially hungover, and extremely carsick. Regardless, we pushed through in determination to see the spectacular sights we were promised.
Our last stop at Giant’s Causeway in Bushmills made the roughly 10-hour tour worth the 30 pounds (Northern Ireland's currency) and carsickness. The bus tour guide dropped us off at the visitor center and told us we had an hour and a half to explore Giant’s Causeway with a different tour guide. Along walked up an older man with a hiking stick. He had a jolly attitude and a wonderful Irish brogue to match. He introduced himself as Mark, our guide, and asked where each of us was from while informing us that whoever traveled the farthest would have to pay for drinks ( a woman from Australia won, but no drinks were ever bought).
During our walk, Mark informed us of some of the history surrounding Giant’s Causeway. Mark mentioned Giant’s Causeway was formed from volcanic rock that cooled below the surface; its pure basalt. He also stressed the importance of what this land meant to the townspeople in the area. He gave me a different perspective on what I was about to see then I originally thought. In the beginning, for Instagram-worthy pictures, but the tour became more than that for me.
Finally, we walked out over the ridge to what is known as Giant’s Causeway. There were perfectly shaped rocks stacked up leading out into the water and mountainous landscapes surrounding us. As I stepped out onto the rocks, I just stared, mesmerized at the natural beauty surrounding me. In those moments, I recognized just how blessed I was to be here. This is something not everyone will get to see in their lifetime (although, everyone should). This view and these rocks were here long before me and were going to be here long after my lifetime. Being in the middle of this massive landscape, I felt insignificant in comparison to where I was, as did my problems back home. To say this was a humbling experience is an understatement.
Take the time to appreciate nature, whether it is a trip abroad or a local park. Get lost in nature and put things in perspective. Let nature overwhelm and inspire you.
