Kayaking down the Harpeth River, just a short drive from Nashville, the simple melody of “Row, Row, Row Your Boat” drifted across the water. It was the perfect soundtrack to a peaceful afternoon, gently paddling through the calm current.
“Row, row, row your boat,
Gently down the stream.
Merrily, merrily, merrily, merrily,
Life is but a dream.”
This classic children’s song, with its repetitive lyrics and soothing rhythm, is more than just a nursery rhyme. It’s a reflection on life’s journey, encouraging us to navigate its waters with ease and joy. The four “merrily”s emphasize the importance of finding happiness in the simple act of moving forward, much like gliding through the water in a kayak.
This kayaking trip was organized by the Outdoor Recreation Center (ORC), an amazing resource for outdoor adventures. Joining fellow first-timers, experienced trip coordinators, and outdoor enthusiasts, the day unfolded as a relaxing escape from campus life. The ORC offers a fantastic program for anyone looking to explore activities like hiking, climbing, and of course, kayaking, with trips planned throughout the semester. For those wanting a deeper dive into wilderness skills, WilSkills provides semester-long courses.
Kayakers enjoying a sunny day on the Harpeth River, paddling gently and surrounded by green trees.
The Harpeth River offered a gentle introduction to kayaking. For over six scenic miles, the current did most of the work, allowing for a truly effortless float. It was an opportunity to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with nature’s beauty.
A kayaker's perspective looking forward on the Harpeth River, showing calm water and lush riverbanks, taken by the author.
Just like the “Row Row Row Your Boat Song” suggests, life on the river felt dreamlike and serene. Stepping away from the usual routine and immersing oneself in nature is incredibly refreshing. For those few hours, worries faded, and the simple joy of paddling and the beauty of the surroundings took center stage. The experience echoed the song’s gentle wisdom: life, like a boat journey, can be navigated merrily if we embrace the present moment and appreciate the simple flow of our own stream.
