Showerthought: That pretty park rock I took home feels wrong now

I was hiking in Yosemite a few years back and spotted this shiny piece of rose quartz right by the trail. Without thinking, I picked it up and stuffed it in my pocket. It looked great on my bookshelf, and I told everyone about my find. But then I read online how taking rocks from parks messes with the natural balance. I started to feel bad because I took something that should have stayed for everyone to enjoy. It's a tough spot because lots of people do it, but the rules are there for a reason. I decided to never take rocks from parks again, even if they look amazing. That quartz piece still sits there, and it reminds me of my mistake every time I see it.

3 comments

3 Comments

palmer.val1mo ago

My park ranger once glared at me for picking up a pine cone, so you're in good company. That guilt is a powerful lesson.

jordans181mo ago

Is a pine cone really worth that much drama?

laura_white991mo ago

Honestly though, what was the park ranger's reason for that? Like, is it an actual rule or more of a vibe they're trying to protect? Seems like such a small thing to get mad about, but maybe there's a bigger point about taking stuff from parks.