GATES

Each time I reach the south end of Kenosha Pass, where the land opens in a vast bowl, revealing South Park, I experience a sharp intake of breath. The view never fails to inspire awe.

The earth here supports vast ranches and open spaces.

Herds of elk and antelope live beside cattle and horses.

The ranch gates are as impressive as the land they protect.

As I pondered the concept of a gate, I realized they can either keep visitors out or occupants in.

As individuals, we create our own ‘gates’ to protect ourselves from the traits we want to keep private. Our gates can be as artistic and beautiful as these Colorado creations.

I have my personal gates. Yet, I know that the desire of every human being is to be ‘known’. Not by everyone, but by the select few we allow in; and those, we call friends.

As the locks of my own gates have loosened with age, the traits I have kept hidden, have turned out to be simply vulnerabilities.

And just like this last farm gate – old and fire-tested, there is beauty within.

Written July 20, 2021