Life at the Lake

Every once in a while, I have the opportunity to join my friends on the lake and take in all it has to offer. I have always loved the lake because it is so serene, but it is interesting to see all the developments that have occurred along many of our lakes. This semester I stayed at a lake house for a wedding, and decided to go on a walk through the neighborhood to see all the houses along the lake. These houses are not your typical lake house, but rather are large mansions that sit on the shores. This takes me back to the question of accessibility versus preservation, as I believe lakes are meant to be enjoyed, but at what cost.

I see the lake as something that is meant to be relaxing and enjoyable, and for the owners of these houses, I am sure it is just that. While on this walk, I looked at all of the large houses and thought about what the lake would look like without all of the development. When thinking of this, I found myself feeling more at peace than picturing the lake with all of the houses. That being said, I do think it also makes sense for people who love the lake to live on it, I just think there should be some boundaries. It seems to me that when the lake houses become too extravagant, those living in the houses lose sight of what the lake is really for. It almost seems that the lake becomes a status symbol rather than a form of nature that should be appreciate just as is. 

You can see in this photo that the lake is no longer the centerpiece, but rather the developments around it. I noticed this as I was on my walk. I was paying more attention to the houses than the lake, which was the entire purpose of my walk. That being said, I did notice some wonderful nature on this walk, as well. I noticed the water was extremely blue and was calm as there were limited boats on the water. The trees and beaches surrounding the lake were well maintained, and the animals in the area proved to like their environment. The walk was peaceful on the water, despite all the houses. I do think if I were just walking along an undeveloped lake I would have felt more in touch with the nature behind it, but it was still just as nice. 

I think it is important people enjoy our lakes, as long as they are treating them well. I know that the glamorous developments will not stop, so I just hope people living on these lakes make sure to treat them right, and focus on enjoying the lake as a form of nature, rather than that status symbol. I never know where I stand when it comes to preservation versus accessibility because I see both sides so prominently, but when it comes to lakes, I believe they should be accessible, but within reason.