zemej | jemez

We all get caught up in the convenience and ease of this place we call home. Caffeine and fast food, warmth in the winter months, “clean” water. These are the items that sold to us for the sake of community.

The cost is that we have lost our connection with nature. And what I mean by nature is the ebb and flow of mother earth. The sun rising in the sage expanse of a desert. The rain falling on a mountain top during a summer afternoon.

But in New Mexico I have found how easy it is to appreciate nature while still enjoying the creature comforts of daily life. Wake up early one morning, pack some breakfast and a lunch, and head to the mountains. Preferably ones an hour or so for the nearest city like the Jemez. Be there for sunrise. Just sit and bear witness to nature. The things that happen whether you are there or not.

In doing this I have seen the moisture evaporate from the tree trunks as the sun warmed them after a night of rain. Elk feed while birds made their morning calls. All while being only a short drive from home.

Press play below to listen to Season 1, Episode 1 of my podcast. This episode features a walk through the snow to a crackling campfire and is interspersed with some music that makes for a short meditative journey. For the best experience (including full length versions of the songs), open in Spotify.