Collaborative Memory

Sometimes along the back of my mind I get a sense memory of driving through a nondescript natural section of Northern California

a winding highway with a long steep grade that doesn't feel steep but calls for a little extra power

and the yellow beige grass and the spots of dark green oaks on the smooth hills and the blue sky with sparse wisp-ended cottony billow clouds.

It's just a part of a trip I once took

In a place where my grandfather had traveled

and where separately, of different lives, my father and mother, my brother and sisters and you and I have all seen this little section of Earth.

At the moment I wonder

if maybe we all felt the same mix of peace and anticipation at this simple passing through.

Not a famous forest, or a labeled rock formation or a declared scenic drive
just yellow beige grass blue sky green oaks

and reverence for a simple moment

that inspired always.