Santa Ana winds blow the harsh, dry winds that turn wind chime songs into a cacophany of angry music, like heavy metal at it's worst. The otherwise peaceful valley is blasted with sand and tumbleweeds whirling furiously across the quiet roads, making even the most cautious of drivers anxious. Skin chaps, hair turns to straw and the slightest movement across any carpeted floor turns the whole body into a giant conduit. You can see the sparks fly off your fingers. It's a ghastly kind of wind. It makes people crabby. It makes horses skittish. It makes the nerves raw.
The villagers scan their yards for anything flammable. Old weeds, dried branches, fallen leaves, all fuel for the impending fires that are so common when the Santa Ana blows. Twice in 4 years, thousands of homes have been burned to the ground, animals lost, entire groves of avocado and orange trees charred from the scorching flames that came from every direction. Unpredicable and deadly fast, the winds can change in the blink of an eye, and what was once safe haven suddenly turns fatal. And then....
The winds stop. The silence is palpable, loud. The trees regain their composure. The birds regain their balance. The dust settles. Everywhere the sound of that silence is a welcome reprieve to the people who call this home. As the echoes of those winds recede, there is a sense of calm that seems to wash over all of us. We say our silent prayers of thanks, as we hose down the decks and gather the debris. We all know that the silence may be short lived. The winds will blow again. It's just the way it is. It's the price we all pay to live in this lovely valley, where orange blossoms fill the air with heavenly fragrance, where all one need do to make lemonade is stroll up the road and gather the ripe fruit that abounds. Life, in the silence, is good again.
Camille Olivia Strate is an author and coach who takes great pleasure in helping folks 'remember' who they are. She spends much of her time with her beloved animals, maintaining that they are her greatest connection to Source. When she's not coaching or writing, she can be found in the garden or on a trail, soaking in the marvels of Nature's offerings. Her latest book, "Whispers" is now available in eBook format. Hardcopy to follow soon!
Camille Olivia Strate is a writer and critter keeper who lives in the foothills of Southern California. Her greatest passion is helping people care for their critters. Teaching folks the language of animals so the can 'hear' what they need is among her greatest achievements. A new non-profit called The RAJA Project is about to launch, offering financial assistance to elderly citizens who might otherwise be unable to pay for their pets' Veterinary needs. Visit her personal site at http://www.joyzachoice.com
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» left by Teresa Ortiz(4,608) Teresa Ortiz (219 days 14 hours ago.)
Camille, this was absolutely beautiful. You described it so perfectly, you took me back to those days. I know exactly what you mean because I grew up in So. Ca. I know the Santa Ana's well. Your vivid description caused me to take a deep breath and sigh a peaceful sigh. Well done my friend!! Peace to you, Teresa Respond to this comment
» left by Anonymous (219 days 12 hours ago.)
You, dear one, are so very welcome! And many thanks to YOU...for your always uplifting input. I am truly blessed. Respond to this comment
» left by Carole Spring from Dublin, Ohio (219 days 11 hours ago.)
Absolutely beautiful, both the article, the feeling of silence it evokes, and you!
Happy birthday, Dear One. Carole Respond to this comment
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