I don’t usually like to put out super personal things on the
internet, but I had something happen today that I need to share. This morning,
I found out that my great aunt (who is 104 and going strong) is in the
hospital. I went right away to go see her and spend time with her. I feel so
horrible for not spending more time with her and there really is no excuse
since I’ve been back home since March.
When I got
to the hospital, and found her room, she instantly awoke as I came inside and
said hello. She is doing a lot better than I originally thought, and it made my
day to sit and talk with her.
On the TV
screen in her room, a slideshow of nature pictures was playing. Half Dome in Yosemite popped up and I made a comment about it. I asked
her if she had ever been to half dome and she said, “Oh yes.” She started to
tell me a story about an adventure she had hiking near Half Dome when she was
in her early 20’s. Auntie’s dad, brother (my grandpa), and two of their
friends/neighbors were all camping in Yosemite.
She knew so many details about the trip
and even remembers what she was wearing.
She said
they started out late on a hike, and the trail quickly grew dark as the sun
went down. From what I understand, the group got separated and her neighbor
sprained her ankle… She said a full moon came out and lit up the trail. She and
her friend were wearing white blouses which reflected in the moonlight- making
it easier for the group to find one another and reunite. Auntie told me, “I’m
not a very great hiker”, but I can tell she still enjoyed being outdoors and in
nature.
Sitting
with her and hearing about her adventures in Yosemite
makes me so grateful that I have the opportunity to also enjoy these places. It
also makes me wonder if we will reach a point where future generations won’t be
able to enjoy natural environments in the same way we do. I do know that we, as
a race, are leaving stronger imprints on Earth with each year. My hope and my
prayer is that my children’s chidlren’s children and so on will grow up
enjoying the great outdoors and places like Yosemite, Yellowstone, and Mt. Diablo….because
even if we aren’t the greatest hikers, we still need to appreciate and preserve
our world.
I’ll keep
you updated on Auntie’s status. My gut tells me she’ll be out of the hospital
and back home in no time, but prayers are greatly appreciated.
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