I had a conversation with a girl at work the other day about some of life's finer and more enjoyable things. We are both approaching a change in geography, and this prompted a discussion of some of our favorite places we'd ever been. The places that breathe life into your lungs, that fill your spirit with the overwhelmingly satisfying feeling that this world is a wonderful place, and make you wonder just how much more there is out there to see.
Though I've been to many places that elicit this glorious sensation in a myriad of ways, there were two specific locales that prompted the strongest and most intense feelings of joy, each appealing to a different sense: the stupendous sight of the New River Gorge provided by the northern hemisphere's longest steel-arch bridge, the second highest vehicular bridge in the world, that spans across it, and the sweet scent of the air in Vidalia, Georgia.
I've attempted to post a picture of the New River Bridge, but that will not do it any justice. Crossing this bridge at any time of year provides the most beautiful view that I have ever seen. It was a staple of trips to and from Johnson City during the incredible years that I spent there. It was the bright spot of the entire trip, and I am thankful to U.S. Highway 19 and the entire crew that constructed this modern marvel in the mid-1970s.
As for the smell of Vidalia, it is sweeter and more prevalent than the sweet onions of its name. I remember nothing of Vidalia's view---I cannot recall the name of a single street or sight in the town---but the smell is one that I will never forget.
The world is a wonderful place. These are two things that I try and keep as constant reminders of just that. Add them to a list of places to see/smell during your time in this life. If you're anything like me, you won't regret it.
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