The other evening as I walked through Carpenter Natural Area I noticed two people who were paused looking at five little signs. The one with the biggest lettering said: “Please stay on Trail.” The other four had names of plants growing nearby.
The people were squinting and chuckling at the signs. As they turned to continue on, their amused eyes met mine. “What’s so funny?” I asked with a smile.
The man said, “The only sign I could read from the trail says ‘Please stay on trail.’ The lettering on the others was too small.”
I said, “Oh, that’s too bad. But that’s great that you were trying to read the plant names. I think many people don’t see them.”
It was a lovely evening. I added, “Its always refreshing to see people enjoying this place, beyond just for exercise. Have you seen the foxes or the deer?”
They hadn’t, but now they knew to watch for them.
We parted ways. As I walked I thought about how strangers can enjoy meeting, knowing nothing about each other except that they are experiencing the same wonders (and sometimes related humor) of nature: sunsets, butterflies, fresh air, wildflowers, foxes and deer, hummingbirds, oceans, mountains, eclipses, shooting stars, whether by sight, sound, feel, fragrance or taste. When safe, they experience awe at the sight of a volcanic eruption or lightning storm.
I don’t think we are a divided country. We’re all walking on the same ground. And for this, and all of its beauty, we can celebrate!
April Baisan
Cortez