In this time of turmoil, when things could go in so many different troubling directions. We can each take solace in the natural world. It's there for us all offering balm and respite.
The depth of color resounds now before the first real onslaught of winter. Everything is saturated with triumphant light. The world is alive around you as it situates itself to lay down for "a long winter's nap!" In writing here I almost forgot to be anxious, even though there is so much to do. It's true every year in preparation for cold weather. But this year we have the added responsibility of saving the world, and so many of us seeing that from such different perspectives. I find it humbling to try and speak in a way my neighbors can hear. I am so passionate in my belief but not so fool hearty to be blind to other folks' seeing things so differently than I do. Our mutual respectful acknowledgement of difference is the hallmark of democracy.
Our sacred democracy, if only we can keep it.
The hills speak a wisdom we all have the possibility of hearing.
This one's for you America.