School may still be out, but are today’s teens outside? I think teenagers would benefit from going outside and exploring their surroundings.
For me, taking the time to step outside is always worth it. Nothing is quite as good at reminding ourselves we are really and truly alive as the solid ground under our feet, the crisp breeze blowing through our hair and the fragrance of sweetgrass and little bluestem.
Every season has something special. Spring and summer have the vibrant rainbow of flowers waving in the breeze. Fall brings red, brown and golden leaves that crunch underfoot, while winter displays the beauty of serene blankets of snow covering the world in calm white.
Through the years, these sights have always lifted my spirits. Just the other day, a fawn rustled a juniper bush right next to me as it rushed away down the grassy slope. Right after that, I watched a pumpkin-colored butterfly wink its wings through the grass.
As a child going outside with my dad, I became more observant. I would ask about plant and animal species, note the weather and become not only more engaged, but also more animated.
I wonder if other teenagers would learn to love the outdoors as much if they gave it a chance.
Luckily, North Dakota has the Little Missouri National Grassland, where the wild horses and rock formations inspire. I think awareness of North Dakota’s biome and its hallmarks would help teenagers feel a sense of belonging and pride. By understanding nature, we are also further understanding ourselves. We should step out of our comfort zones, even if it’s just to a local park or a nearby field. There’s a whole biosphere waiting for you!
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Kaili Yang, 14, is a sophomore at Dickinson High School, where she is involved in choir. She enjoys reading, listening to music and outdoor activities. Kaili is the daughter of Miranda and Michael King, who are members of Roughrider Electric Cooperative.
