Natalie Gilbert: Topic of Personal Choice

I would love to travel the world, gain experiences, and see magnificent things. I only hope that in this lifetime I am able to get to go on some crazy and life changing adventures. The idea of the sublime was often mentioned in class. It is a powerful experience that makes you feel insignificant and small in the world. Zoltan’s recollection of coming face to face with a bear, Professor Redick facing a mountain lion, and the glaciers at Mount Rainier are just a few of the demonstrated sublime experiences we have discussed in this class. I can’t think of one extreme instance where I experienced the sublime, but I know I have experience elements in nature where I have felt insignificant and small in the scheme of life on earth. I often feel this way when looking at the stars or out at the ocean when at the beach. It is this semi-kenosis of self and appreciation I feel that allows me to believe there is a higher power along with an order and meaning to our lives.