Deep within the heart of Arizona, lies a special place surrounded by high arching cathedrals exquisitely cut in mountains of red rock. The pedestals were carved ages ago by forces of water so powerful that it formed peaks and valleys of smooth ridges that look as if a master craftsman were creating a legacy of sculpture to enthrall generations to come. Eons of time has tempered this place and made it a sanctuary of quiet.
Early in the mornings all you can hear are the soft sounds of small birds telling you that it is a beautiful day. A calm breeze rustles the boughs of an overhanging tree and you can picture the green leaves barely moving across the balcony pushed by an invisible hand. Hailing across the room is a vein of sunlight. Even with your eyes still closed you start to feel warmth as the temperature climbs from the crispness of night to the heat of the day. You slowly turn toward it and feel the rays slowly envelope your body like a warm blanket – a hug of sunshine. Your mind refuses to consider anything but the delighted palpitations of your heart.
Daytime is a collage of muted colors and sounds, which soothe your ears and relax your soul. There are places here where the world can be drawn into a single cool swirl of water as it sways and gently pours over a rounded stone into a pool so calm and clear that you fear your very presence is an intrusion. And where looking down from a lofty crest makes you want to fly and feel the wind soar by you as you float effortlessly over a serene landscape. Although you can see no movement you know that life permeates everywhere you look.
As night approaches there is a sadness and wonder. The sun gently dips over the red rocks and splashes of color reflect off the desert floor – a last call to the day. As twilight comes the birds stop their singing – the wind calms and a cricket starts its lonely serenade. There is no fear as the darkness comes, only a wonder of what surrounds you. Closing your eyes you try to feel the coolness bring moisture back to the parched earth and you listen – silently – for the songs of the night.
