Provo

Provo

            Utah is its own country; its own fairytale land where the blossoms on the trees fall like so much snow lazily drifting on a gossamer breeze. The soil is rich, dark, fertile, if a little dry. The surrounding mountains call to the adventurer, dusted with powdered sugar snow on a magnificent cake. A “Y” stamped on the face recalls the upright students following the word of the Lord in their studies. Being here makes one happy. Everyone here seems happy, healthy, friendly, active. It is a community of people who love one another. It’s peaceful. You can feel the spirit in the very streets. It truly is a magic kingdom.

            Why do I feel whole when I am here? Why do I want to stay? What is it about Salt Lake City and Provo that makes me yearn for this peace and comfort and at the same time makes me think there is even more to be gained? I never thought of seeking peace as an ambition. I feel love for these people around me; these strangers whom I will never know. The woman jogging with her stroller, the little boys walking their puppy, the older group of ladies, they do not shy away from the stranger in their presence. These people love each other as well.

            I do not want to go back to my desert homeland. I do not want the way I feel now to fade with each mile I travel away from this place I once called home, the home I did not appreciate when I had it. Maybe this vacation was exactly what I needed to see just how far off the path I truly am. Now I have something to aspire to. Now I can work toward bringing this feeling back with me to Nevada.

            Even Nature seems happy. The chirping and the insects are active, but companionable. I love them as well. I love my fairy kingdom.