Wilderness : honors thesis [(HONRS 499)]

Abstract

Many times I have sat and listened to the sounds of the woods. Many times I have looked at things in wonder but never really absorbing the true beauty that really existed in the depths. In the Fall of 1991, I began a journey into discovering what wilderness actually meant to me. I was taking a course entitled, "Wilderness: Past. Present. and Future" with Provost, Dr. Warren VanderHill. Never before have I been challenged in my thinking and beliefs in such a simple but effective manner. My major assignment for the semester was to keep a journal concerning my concept of wilderness. This journal helped me to develop a concept concerning vast expanses of wilderness and "miniature wilderness." This concept has challenged my thoughts, my paintings, my life, and has given me thoughts that can be continually developed for a lifetime. My wilderness concept has inspired me to concentrate part of my journal into writing.My extreme gratitude goes to Dr. VanderHill for his method of teaching and his enthusiasm for wilderness. I believe he has challenged me for a lifetime. My thanks also goes to my family, Christopher, and Phil Repp for their continued support, help, and encouragement.