Calling

 

 

I dont know what it is about this picture but I like it.  This cactus is located in the Arid Room of the Hidden Lake Gardens conservatory.  I cant help but feel sorry for these guys when I stop in during the winter….they just seem so out of their element.  But, it’s a necessary stop to see them.  The air reminds me of Texas…or maybe it’s just the smell of the dirt.  Whatever it is I like it.  I never lived in Texas but I have relatives who live there who I visit every now and then.  My grandfather used to tell me stories of life in south Texas when he was a kid….hunting for rattlesnakes.  So much for the issues we have now with lead paint on toys.  My family was out playing with rattlesnakes when they were kids..ha!  Anyway, that’s what I think about mostly when I stop by the Arid room….thoughts of Texas.  My life is filled with snow and cold.  The tomatoes that brought my grandfather here are being picked elsewhere……ironically in Mexico.  Left behind are the Mexicans who have raised their families here and planted roots.  But, why should I stay here?  Is this cactus calling my soul back to Texas?…back to Mexico?  I’ve never lived in either place but sometimes I feel it calling.  I hear you Mr. Cactus.