It has now been eight consecutive years that I have been returning to Joshua Tree. The magic of the area has not diminished, only my energy has decreased. I now try to just do one hike in the Park, with Ryan Mountain being what I selected this time around.
High clouds and cool Fall temperatures for the start of my Saturday walk up the mountain. The Joshua Tree valley views are stunning as I trek upward.
I reach the summit in solitude, and silently call out her name, tell her how much she is missed by everyone. In this empty space I can feel her soul, her goodness and light.
I then turn and head back down, thinking about my own end. I am not afraid necessarily, I just wonder what else I can accomplish before my time comes….
