Utah, deserts and water: A self-portrait

This following self-portrait was written during a workshop I was reviewing at the SLCC Community Writing Center. I was given the writing prompt: "Do you like thunderstorms? Why or why not?" Being a desert native, I found it an interesting prompt.

While writing it, I realized I was perhaps mimicking the style of Jill Ker Conway in her memoir The Road from Coorain. Jill was born and raised in Australia, so her connection to the land was formed out of a constant need for water. In the desolation and dryness, she saw the beauty and life in the desert.

I too see that in Utah, and being a native, I feel connected to the land; almost as if it is encoded in my DNA.
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I am a creature of red sandstone and sage brush. Minuscule flecks of dirt, home to thousands of microcosms, flow through my veins. My heavens are supported by towering mountains, my Earth made firm by resilient roots.

Water is foreign. Water is new. Torrential down pours accompanied by flashes of white hot fire lash the eager womb below.

Rainstorms are raw. Life giving fury unleashed from above.

I love to dance in the savagery: flirting with the droplets kissing my face and caressing my bare arms. Their touch cools my skin but awakens a burning desire deep within my spinning core.

I am a creature born in fire, tempered in patient slumber, awaiting heavens gifts.
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