Mr. Sedona's guidebook says that Huckaby Trail "has it all." This is so true. Beautiful and moderately challenging, there are an incredible number of views and habitats on one trail.
I started off a little slow this morning--legs a little weary, eyes a little sleepy. I did some Dahn Yoga Do In stretching at the trail head. It felt good, but I was still a little sluggish. The sun was not yet at its zenith, so it was a cool and gentle walk along my first half of the trail. At one point, I found the perfect resting spot, or so I thought. It was a flat rock at a point where the trail opened up toward the creek and valley below. It also had a nice vantage of Uptown Sedona and rock formations in that direction. I could hear the rush of the water and see the bridge upstream. There was a warm breeze blowing toward the water. I only sat for a short while. I marked it with my mind, to return and really enjoy the view.
From there the trail began to descend steeply toward the creek. When I reached the base there was a lush wall of oaks and pines and large leaf plants. Not what I expected. I knew I wouldn't make it to the end of the trail, but I would keep walking until I found a perfect spot for sitting meditation. And I found it--Shim Ki Hyul Jang (where the mind goes, energy follows). The creek was rushing over round stones to create a small, but powerful waterfall. There was an old fallen tree on the banks creating a picturesque setting and a perfect seat. Something about that little waterfall was attracting lots of birds. They kept diving and playing in the air just above the water. I felt I had a visual definition for the word "gambol." Higher above that spot Hawks were strangely flapping their wings. I really didn't want to leave this peaceful spot. The sound of the waterfall was perfect for deep breathing and meditation. The sun was shining bright, but the air was cool and invigorating like I had stepped into another season. I watched the birds for a while and then began the return journey.
The intensifying sun was bringing out the scent of the pine and this cheered me as I walked up and up the little switchbacks. The buckets of sweat began to flow from my head and lower back. I just kept looking forward and moving, breath by breath. Until I started seeing the panoramic vistas again. Worth a stop every now and then. Unfortunately, I was in such "go" mode, that I passed the special spot. A man with a bike was there waiting for his friend. I said "hello" but did not consider sitting down to take in the view. I realized this much later when I was at the top closer to the trailhead.
As usual, I saw lots of things on my return that I had missed in the beginning. The light had changed, my energy was more vibrant and alert and new life patterns were emerging (the lizards were out playing and hunting for food). But I made it to the top with a mind of total gratitude.
I was reflecting on the bounty of this place, how rich I felt to be there. The day before I had received phone calls from two of my dearest life long friends (one since 5th grade and one since my youthful adventures in Thailand). I felt so rich that I have these lasting relationships with such amazing people, that they have seen me grow and change and ground into my authentic self. Sensing the beauty of this place and reflecting on the love of friends took me to a thought of the essential generosity of mother earth. My connection to this planet is not merely aesthetic, but a sense that I am and will be well taken care of. I have my teacher to thank for that. His teachings and exercises have helped me transform a sense of suspicion and guardedness into one of acceptance. No matter what my circumstances, I know that I am loved and my dreams are attainable. I hope I can help other people experience this life perspective.
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