“People can come here and bring a book, or write in their own journals. We want visitors to be inspired.’’ ~ Nancy Grohol, director of the nonprofit Thoreau Farm Trust
The birthplace of Henry David Thoreau has been recently opened for the public. Although visitors have been allowed to come and explore in the past, the land was privately owned and operated. Now the newly restored farm, at 341 Virginia Road in Concord, has had restoration and repair work done and can be an intriguing way to connect with the past. The farmhouse was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2004.
Thoreau wrote voluminously during his lifetime. In fact, his writings of poetry, essays, articles, and more fill over 20 volumes. Of course, he is most famously known for his book Walden, which is primarily about independence and self-reliance. The book places heavy emphasis on the importance of solitude, contemplation, and developing a closeness with the natural world. It was also a critique about fighting against materialism and consumerism.
"A lake is the landscape's most beautiful and expressive feature. It is Earth's eye; looking into which the beholder measures the depth of his own nature." ~ Henry David Thoreau, Walden, Ch9
Perhaps you can visit the farm and spend some time in quiet reflection, journaling or just meditating peacefully. Thoreau sought for ways in which we could live justly and humanely, without unjust government or heavy handed commercialism. His homestead, and his words, may provide the opportunity for you to reflect on your life.
For Thoreau, independence and self-sufficiency were extremely vital and important, especially as they related to the human condition. For him, it was important to know who you were for yourself, without anyone labeling you. It was important to be authentic and strive for your own justice in the world. He wanted people to have honest value for what they contributed both spiritually and physically to the world.
As the 4th of July is about the celebration of independence, you might use some part of the day as a time to reflect and open to the importance of independence in your life. Where have you stood up for important causes? Where have you stood up for those who could not? Where have you made sacrifices to allow for someone else to be more independent?
Tools & Resources:
Walden online
