Dear Bryce,
It’s a new year, my love. The time to let our minds wander and dream, the world our oyster. Carpe diem. All the things. Have you written your resolutions?
Of course, you haven’t. I remember. You don’t believe in resolutions. Instead, you trust in whichever way the wind blows and shapes you, clay in the skillful potter’s hands. But then you’ve always loved surprises, haven’t you? Perhaps you make the wiser choice. Each year sees you perfected.
How I wish I had your virtue.
As for me, I’m incapable of waiting for the wind’s decision. What if the wind is wrong?
You know I must always have a plan of my own making. My annual, arduous endeavor to resolve the same old question. “Where will I find the one that draws me back and back again- the place that fills the gap between who I am and want to be?” As if this time the answer won’t be you.
My God, how I miss you!
Did you know I was in Panguitch last September? So close I heard your heartbeat from Red Canyon. The hoodoos whispered all around me. Urged me to turn back, go to you for just a little while. And I could have. The miles ahead would have waited. Instead, I turned away from you to embrace a stranger that might prove you aren’t what I’ve believed.
And for a little while, I doubted. Great Basin too is a gifted lover, its twisted pines and alpine cirques seductive and intoxicating. I confess I was unfaithful and let the Basin have its way. But when I turned south and east again, you’d proven it a dalliance, a lover I’d never see again.
Well, now. That’s more confession than I meant to make. But I know you understand. You too have taken many lovers. You’ll take many lovers still. I know I’ll never be your last and yet I know you will be mine.
You, my Bryce, are my Zion- my heaven on earth. I know this in my soul, and I will find my way back to you one day. Together we’ll watch the sunset from Inspiration Point and form the perfect union. Until then, know you are always with me.
Forever yours,
Rebekah
Bryce Canyon National Park stole my heart in 2017.
To begin planning your love affair with Bryce Canyon National Park, visit Bryce Canyon National Park (U.S. National Park Service).