There is something about the harshness of the desert that can breed a certain type of society - also stemming from the days of old where everyone and everything (man, woman, child, scorpion, snake, and cacti alike) take up arms against any and all strangers. On my early morning walk past lowered pickups with tinted windows and gunracks, pitbulls, razor edged fences, empty liquor bottles, the occasional honk, whistle, and staggering drunk, I made my way to a whimsical little creek in the park. A trail called Creekside led me from "here to there".

As I was walking past an area with log benches, old firepits, and the occasional overnighter paraphernalia, I saw two men standing by a table. One looked up and said in somewhat slurred voice, "good morning, would you like to see my friend draw?". Quickly assessing the situation and acknowledging my intuition that said everything was okay, I walked over. One man was fully engrossed in a beautiful drawing of a flower on a 2x4. We spoke only briefly, as all three of us were very intent on the drawing. It was obvious that my newfound artistic friends had had a long, cold sleepless night. But, it seemed as if not a care in the world was present at our little gathering. Both of them smiled and were delighted by the hand-drawn flowers that were taking shape on the wood. John, the artist, decided that the piece belonged to me since I had stopped to say hello. I responded by saying that I will take it home and work on it and then bring it back to the park for everyone to see. Travis' eyes lit up. We all agreed it was a good idea. After saying our goodbyes, I smiled at the wonders of such a simple interaction. Time and time again when I approach strangers with the acceptance and care that I give my kin and friends, I find I am surrounded by brothers and sisters. I want to thank all the strangers and friends, friends and strangers, who constantly surprise me with the gift of openness and familiarity.

I have posted photos in my gallery of magical moments - art in the park. Please feel free to share the gift of creation from John, Travis, and myself.