Mountain Goat calls me - I long To be at his side, Sharing His secrets
The dreamy glow of moonlight on the branches of a Douglas fir, accompanied by the lapping waves of the passage as I stand on the edge of a sunken dock. The overwhelming, surrealistic pleasure one feels while standing in the forest among rocky cliffs in the haunting wind, knowing you are the only human being for miles. A lone mountain goat on a rocky peak in the silent alpine air, guardian of the secrets of the forest. That innate raw and undying connection with the rocks, trees, plants, fungi, and earth, that constantly gnaws at me as I stare out of the confines of my cubicle into one of the nature photos I surround myself with in order to keep my sanity in check.
It is hard to put into words. I view the earth, my eyes like the lens of a camera, catching glimpses of hidden natural wonders that many seem to miss. I crave the untouched beauty of a patch of moss in a sea of lawn or a lone chickweed flower weaving its way through a tiny jungle. A miniscule mushroom peeks out at me, calling me softly as I peer at it, unable to keep from smiling, and grateful for the private viewing. Armed with a camera, I will ask permission to borrow a small piece of its visual soul to share later with others who will take the time to look and listen - for those few who want a tiny glimpse into the labyrinth that lies beneath my flesh; waiting, wanting to be explored.
I love, live, learn and nurture hard, strong, deep and wide. It is easy for me to think of, care for, and live for others; be it human, plant, or animal. This I give unconditionally amongst the latter two species. I tend to shy away from my own kind – the two-leggeds. At times, I show my belly, offering a quick sign that I am harmless, like a wolf child in the pack; serving to contain me within the group as one who is open and smiling and happy no matter what. It is a gesture of friendliness, assurance of no threat; a mask that has served me well and kept me hidden and unnoticed. It is time now for my path to turn inward, toward nurturing my own nature. It is time for me to enter the labyrinth; it is time now for me to share.
There is much I have to give, and I am not an uncomplicated person. There are hills and cliffs and deep valleys behind these walls. Take a peek, if you will. Help me explore.
