Love of Land
"To be unexpectedly embraced with kindness in unfamiliar places, and to discover commonalities with those you once perceived as vastly different, is a profound experience," expressed Anthony Bourdain. Throughout my travels, the most treasured aspect has been the diverse individuals I've encountered along the way. Everyone carries a unique story, and over the years, I've learned the importance of taking the time to listen.
My practice has always been to seek out the local gathering spots in small towns across the country – those places where the community congregates to share their narratives. This was especially true when I met Gary, a seasoned Navajo meat cutter, during a stop at a modest gas station in Kayenta, Arizona. As we conversed under the scorching desert sun, he noticed my camera gear and discerned my status as a "tourist" from Minnesota. Gary graciously offered to take me to sacred places in the Valley accessible only to Navajos, an opportunity I eagerly seized.
Over the next few hours, riding in his weathered Ford pickup truck across the sandy landscape, Gary shared his life's journey as a third-generation meat cutter, an art and profession passed down through the generations. We visited various sites, where he pointed out hogans—traditional homes made of poles, tree bark, and mud—explaining their significance as gifts from the gods. Gary revealed the Navajo belief that they originated from the earth, taught to live harmoniously with nature.
As we explored, Gary recounted stories depicted in ancient petroglyphs, touching on cultural dress, the role of medicine men, and addressing contemporary issues such as combating fetal alcoholism. His teachings provided insights into the Navajo way of life and the efforts to preserve their cultural heritage. My time with Gary, a man who treated me with kindness and imparted wisdom surpassing any history book, left an indelible mark.
Upon subsequent visits to the awe-inspiring landscapes of Diné Bikéyah (Navajo Land), particularly Oljato-Monument Valley, I now view these natural monuments with a profound appreciation. Gary's words echo in my mind, "Shíkeyáh, kéyah (love of land) – I believe I can feel the power of the earth move in me. I can feel the stars' energy and the lunar shifts in my life. I was taught to be humble, to understand my place in the world." Through this encounter, I have cultivated a deeper connection to a land that is often overlooked, finding a renewed sense of gratitude for its unparalleled beauty and the lessons imparted by its stewards.
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