Stories of the West: Death Valley, CA

Death Valley is at once barren and commanding of respect. It is both desolate and vibrant, spectacular and inhospitable. However, there is something to be said for being born near it, for that something in your blood allows you to suffer the heat and see its beauty.

Lie on the ground and feel the frantic wasted energy of your modern life seep into the earth. Port and drink as much water as you can; be a walking oasis in the unending extreme of the desert.

Few plants grow there, they prefer to thrive in silence underground. When they do appear, it seems random- chaotic- but it is the result of months and years of silent planning. They know when to fight the searing sun and when to retreat, neither state better than the other.

Learn how to survive where nothing is given, and the price of admission is accepted only in sweat and the currency of effort.

You will come out of it knowing the extent of your own capacity, having listened to the cool night's whispers that draw the truth from your very being. You will feel empty leaving this place, ready to return to the world knowing that you are made of dust, and to dust you shall return.

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