This morning my desktop picture is one I took at the Sonora Caverns. It is one side of what is called Horseshoe Lake. My camera lens captured the ripples from a couple of drops of water falling from the cavern ceiling. It is tiny drops of water that helped form the magnificent formations found throughout those caverns. Centuries worth tiny drops of water went into those formations. Unfortunately, the most unique formation those centuries of water droplets formed can only be seen in pictures now because on November 21, 2006, the beautiful Sonora Caverns butterfly was vandalized. What took thousands of years to form, was destroyed in seconds by the hand of one person. Like many of those reading these words, when I first found out what had happened to the butterfly formation all I could think was, "How could anyone destroy such a priceless and unique natural treasure?" But, then I thought about the callousness and viciousness that surrounds us in this world, and at least on an intellectual level arrived at some small understanding of how that could happen. To the person who destroyed that unique treasure, the portion of the wing broken off was nothing more than a trophy that he could use to brag to friends about. Because that portion of the wing will not last long outside the cavern walls, by now that trophy is probably nothing but dust.
On a more cheerful note, those willing and able to make the trip can still enjoy all the other fantastic formations in the Caverns of Sonora. Just as anyone who is willing and able can enjoy many of the beautiful wonders nature has to offer by visiting nearby state and local parks, as well as privately owned places that allow visitors. Caverns, canyons, mountains, streams, lakes, and hot springs offer us an opportunity to reconnect with nature on a very personal level. A hike along a nature trail can even be a very spiritual experience for someone who opens his or her mind, body and soul along that trail.
With the economy still in the shape it is, nearby state and national parks can offer families an inexpensive day out that will provide many wonderful lasting memories. So when the weather does warm up, I encourage those reading these words to do a little research, find a nearby state or national park, and take at least a day trip through it. Be sure and take your camera so you can capture the memories you make while visiting it!
Just be sure and leave any place you visit exactly how you found it so that others can also enjoy it. Please be especially careful around those delicate wonders of nature that can so easily be destroyed by the touch of a human hand. Remember, one careless or selfish act can rob all those who come after you, including future generations of your own, from experiencing what you are enjoying. Look, photograph when allowed, but don’t touch has become my motto when enjoying the many beautiful wonders of nature that can be found in state, national and private parks. I follow this motto because I want others, including my grandson, and his children and grandchildren to one day be able to enjoy all the natural wonders I am fortunate enough to experience. Give, in the form of stories and photographs, but don’t take!
