This afternoon was one of those experiences you never forget, a walk in the swamp.
We hiked along the trail looking for wildflowers and other life in the swamp. I imagined what it might have been like to discover this place as a pioneer, and wondered what view does the deer, bear, and squirrels have. What do I see as a human being in this place?
The prairie seemed so similar and unchanging but it wasn’t so. Many plants and beautiful flowers were in bloom, adding splashes of color in the saw grass. A raccoon searched for food last night, leaving behind his tracks and the shell of a crawdad. Birds sang in the trees and left their perches to catch the insects that sustain them.
As we moved on, I felt hot and tired, grateful for the shade and comfort of the Cypress Dome that was our destination. I wondered, if I feel this way, do the wildlife too, was it as important to settlers?
Coming closer to the Dome the landscape became wetter and harder to walk in. Muddy paths were intermingled with the limestone that is the foundation of this land. I was glad to have a walking stick to support me and probe the trail for holes or cypress knees that I may trip over. The trees overhead were providing shade that I so badly needed and the plants had changed, giving way to more water loving species.
Then we were there, a beautiful pool of water surrounded by Cypress trees, ferns and air plants creating an oasis from the dryer prairie. I could imagine how life in the area felt as I do…comfortable, safe, and sheltered.
As we listened to the sounds of the Everglades the pitter patter of rain began. I felt the fatigue leave and my strength return as every drop hit me, the plants and the water in the pool. The sound of birds was replaced with frogs making a wonderful chorus.
Breathing in the smell and sounds around me I felt at peace and blessed.
For one afternoon, I became life in the Everglades.
