Desert Jewels- Recent Memories
I’ve been here before, in the desert of which some say is desolate with its muted beiges, browns, and shadowy hills. I’m struck by silhouettes, spikes, prickly cactus with blooms so vibrant that the sun shines through.
Those who like life stripped down to basics, find gifts in all that the desert sands offer. Early, before the sun rises, the chill of morning air reminds me of extremes. Cold, I find clothes to warm my body as the dark skies slip away and without fanfare, the sun heats the ground. The radiant rays rise and fall upon me. I hear the chatter of mockingbirds, watch the house sparrows, the woodpecker flit in and out of my friends’ garden sanctuary. Old, dead spikes from yucca plants repurposed for landing posts, fill with doves.
With the sunrise, I greet the day and follow my friend to her yoga class. Those who live and have retired in this small community have talents they share. Our yoga instructor, wise with eighty-one years of living, is more than a master. Her studio accommodates only six people. Within moments she zeros in on my body needs and sees the tensions of my life. I felt seen, known, and challenged with her instructions.
A large group of thirty-some gather for Ukulele sessions twice a week. Here my off-key voice is ignored, and I belt out all the songs smiling as I watch joy in their eyes. Fingers move smoothly over the keys as the other hand strums. I’m almost tempted to try and play. I’m encouraged to return to my slow piano practice. Oh, how music lifts my spirits.
I scramble hiking in the crumbling rocky hills. I take the offered stick for the down-hill descent. Pictographs on rock walls, hawks soaring, and the overhead display of fighter jets from the military base, create a sense of wilderness, unlike that of the woods. I’m awed by vast openness with its beauty and danger.
I’ll return to the desert to visit again, for exactly this sense of cleansing and simplicity. I feel the pull of why so many people make the yearly journey. I’m lucky to have great friends.
My friends have carved out, with MacGyver skills, all that they need. They create and give back to their community.
I’d loved to hear your thoughts about the jewels you have discovered within you day–marks of happiness.
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