There is a way that the desert breaks me down to my essential self
a way the desert wind tears away that which is no longer necessary
and the desert sun melts old patterns no longer helpful
There is a way the vastness of the desert swallows up that which is petty or trivial
and desert shadows call into question long held beliefs
There is a way the cycle of the Moon in the desert sky sings of the inevitability of change
and the desert rocks witness to that which is ancient and enduring
There is a way that the desert holds my gaze and makes sure that I know the full cycle of life...
includes death
and that beauty is to be celebrated
but not clutched
The desert reminds me that light and dark are lovers
and that what I may experience as a frightening storm, brings new perspectives
There is a way the desert breaks me down to my essential self
and for that I am deeply grateful.
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all photos from my recent three week pilgrimage to Death Valley and The Trona Pinnacles, and last morning of the trip camping at Lake Isabella and watching the Full Moon set in the West right before sunrise.