Remembering Sedona

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Of all the places I have had the privilege to visit at length in Arizona, Sedona is my favorite. Yes, I’ve seen the Grand Canyon, and it is indeed grand . . . However, few of us have the skills or circumstances to explore the features of the Grand Canyon with any degree of intimacy. Most will only gaze at its magnificence from its perimeter. However, Sedona, while not having the scale of Arizona’s most famous wonder, is far more approachable. Most of its features can be accessed by car or with a short hike. It does not demand the skills of a mountain climber to see its beauty up close. And, that beauty is indeed sublime. So much so, that many have attached a spiritual significance to many of its noteworthy features.

I can recall quite vividly the first time I saw Sedona. I was living in Albuquerque, New Mexico at the time, and decided to explore New Mexico and Arizona for a three week period. I drove through Flagstaff, after having visited the Grand Canyon, and was looking forward to seeing Phoenix. I chose a route that would take me through the heart of Sedona, thinking that it should be photo-worthy enough for a couple  of snapshots. Indeed it proved to be that and more! I had never seen such an elegant panorama of handsome red rock that was both majestic and intimate. The town of Sedona was cradled by this diverse beauty that included fast running streams, majestic cliffs and rugged trails all adorned with stunning red rock accents. To a New Yorker used to all good earth being brown, it was a revelation. I fell in love with red rock on that day. Indeed, my decision later that week to move to Phoenix, Arizona was prompted by its closeness to Sedona.

Many come away with a heightened sense of spirituality after visiting Sedona. I can see why. It speaks clearly, giving witness to the Creator. I cannot see the breadth of beauty here without being reminded that our planet is a gift from a loving and all-powerful Designer. A Grand Creator, with a capacity for beauty of such complexity that it staggers the imagination. I eagerly await the time when I can see Sedona once again.

The photo above shows Cathedral Rock as seen from Red Rock State Park in Sedona. Camera: Sony Alpha A200, kit lens.

Donald Peterson, Newark1 Web Design Portfolio