Taking a break on the tough climb as we turn to face Yuma.
We observe from afar, sometimes not so far, and wonder why people disrespect the flag of their country, particularly that of a republic or democracy. They burn it, stand-down next to it, curse it and what it represents, and also, those that support it. It was not long ago when those that would not stand for the flag invited condemnation. Today, there’s a hardcore that condemn people who are proud of the flag. Hmm!
There are people we love, many whom we respect and a large number we avoid. Notwithstanding the foregoing, at the latter stages of our life, we realize and accept reluctantly: the human race is a disappointment. Beginning with ourselves, we are far from perfect. In fact, the real test is between good and evil. We can make a strong argument we’re not the latter; unfortunately, we don’t have convincing means of proving the former. We would like to suggest that we all judge less and act better. We’ve always maintained and been strong advocates for the following concept: Rather than fix the world, let's fix ourselves first.
So, when we reach these difficult peaks and confront the nation’s flag flying in glory, it’s a reminder that while much is wrong in the country (world), at least, our predecessors (who certainly endured much tougher hardships than succeeding generations), left us legacies to strive to improve upon rather than destroy. May we see the flag as representing a concept of unity, of good values and of improving ourselves, each one of us rather than others. Let’s try to love our neighbors and fix ourselves.
We undertook the Fortuna Mountain hike, actually, it’s a mountain climb over rocks and boulders, both difficult and extremely dangerous. There is no path although cairns are set up to suggest a way to follow to reach the top. That we did not return with a scratch from a fall but for a few slips during which we were able to regain balance was a minor miracle.
Following on from the mention of the flag above, the Fortuna Mountain is the site of a B17 Fortress bomber crash. It occurred in 1944 after which 5 bodies were recovered immediately while the components of the plane remain scattered. It’s a special place in the Gila Mountains because of the difficulty and nature of the hike but more so for the tragedy that occurred. It gives one, as in many places we have hiked, pause for contemplation and always, perspective.
One of those thoughts concerned the flag and not merely a colorful piece of material attached to a pole. Rather, what the flag symbolizes or should represent is relevant. It begged the question: How could anyone disrespecting the flag even begin to face those air force members, and all soldiers throughout the ages, who sacrificed their lives and/or gave part of their lives in the service of the country. We would think it’s apt to crawl in the shadows of such courage and stand erect, with head bowed in humility, before the flag. We need to be more humble and realize while each one of us is important, in the grand scheme of things, we are insignificant. From mountaintops, that concept becomes more apparent.
Finally, we would add that there’s little wrong with this country or any other, for that matter. Surely the fault is clear. We humans, are the problem.
We would wish the above is read as being concerned with values and respect; nothing to do with politics.
However, we have little hesitation in stating that most politicians, if not all, are self-serving and epitomize much that is wrong with humanity.
It appears to be an explosion but amounts to the clouds expressing themselves.
The sun is only able to express itself on a small area.
Negotiating boulders, rocks and scree--an awful lot of fun.
Jen passes a memorial with plane debris close by.
'And where to now?'
On our return, still a lot to go, a weary and relieved Jenni turns to look from whence we scrambled.
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
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