These are the bones of the earth and the architects of an ecology.
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They are literally and metaphorically the foundations of our landscapes.
But they are more than that, they are as animate and as full of life as the eagle or the orchid.
When we reach out to touch them, do they not reciprocate and reach out to us too?
There is a spark to that moment of contact and one that is well known to our aboriginal brothers and sisters.
Here on the mountain, the giant boulders that grace the slopes have been worn into beautiful fluid and sinuous shapes by wind, heat and rain.
Each of these rocks contains a different character and mood and this is not mere fancy.
For the Native American, these were the residing places of the Grandfathers whose will and memory continues to influence all who dwell around them.
Indeed, this evening it is easy to feel the ancestors as the sun sets over this ancient place.
A pleasing thought as our star disappears — would still know this view… there has been little change here since they walked past these same ancient rocks.
We have trodden gently here and the earth rejoices at this continuing respect.
Photo: Sandstone boulders at Saladaviciosa. Courtesy of the author.