Traveling across the country is bringing up all kinds of emotions. The epic beauty and expanse is almost too much to process. I find myself grateful to arrive at the bland motel at the end of the day and rest my brain from the sensory overload.
The beautiful vistas make me think of the people I've loved and lost, my mother and Kaz, both of whom loved the outdoors and nature. Both of whom would have absolutely loved this trip I'm taking now.
It also makes me think of others who are alive and suffering from all the atrocities, hate, injustice and violence happening in the world right now. My heart aches for the innocent children, mothers and fathers, old people and animals caught in the middle of the madness, unable to enjoy the basics of life.
Nature's beauty is humbling, evocative, poetic and touching. It makes me think not only of people, but also spiritual mysteries, music, art and history. I've often wondered how this land might have looked before people arrived, or the moment when people first saw it. What must they have thought? Did they fall to their knees in appreciation? Or did they shrug, like it was no big deal?
I've both laughed and cried while stopped on the side of the road in the "big sky" state of Montana, while sitting at a lake in Yellowstone National Park, while driving through the gorgeous cowboy country of Wyoming. I've gasped and said "wow" a lot. I've also said "thank you" silently and whispered into the wind.
I miss my mother and Kaz so much. I'm thinking about them constantly. I wish they could share in this experience, not in spirit, but here, right now. I wish I could see them react to what I'm seeing. I wish we could be together.
[All pics taken by me: Idaho, Montana, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming]