On the Lookout for Snakes in the Grass
While running around the Robberg Nature Reserve, I spotted a Puffadder on the path. Fortunately, I was running on a section where I had good visibility of the terrain that lay ahead. When I spotted the serpentine creature, I stopped dead in my tracks. My already elevated heart rate skipped a few beats and started to race even faster.
I stood for a while and watched. I was grateful for the rest. I had been doing some boulder hopping that had somewhat tested my limits. The snake appeared unaware of my presence and slowly made its way off the path, through a grassy patch and over a rock. Once the puffie had disappeared, I felt comfortable enough to take a wide berth and be on my way.
I reflected on my brief and slightly nervous encounter as I ran on.
At no time was I at risk. But, I considered how often I was completely unconscious of my close surroundings during my run. My mind was often so focused on the path ahead that anything outside my focal zone didn’t even register on my radar. From time to time, I did stop to take in the sheer beauty of my surroundings. However, while on the move, concentration and focus were top priorities.
At any time, while focused on staying upright and not falling off a cliff edge, I could have passed within inches of another Puffadder and not known. I was climbing over a boulder at one point without thinking of what could be waiting for me in the sun at the top.
As I ran the last kilometre of the trail back to the carpark, I wondered how my running experience in Robberg Nature Reserve was a reflection of my life. Often so focused on a task at hand and oblivious to potential hazards and opportunities just out of sight. In day-to-day life, I am pretty sure that I pass by many instances that could have had a significant impact on me, but for timing and luck.
My nature is not to go through life always looking out for the “snake in the grass”. That would require me to be suspicious of all my engagements. I like to think that if there is a snake out to get me, I will see it coming and take the appropriate action.
That said, next time I am running some wild trail route, I will be far more conscious of what might be just out of sight. Note to self — being unconscious in my running bubble can be hazardous.
Justin Spencer-Young
