Greetings from Yosemite National Park

We all have different definitions of what “wilderness” means to us. To some, wilderness is a cultural construct, shaped by the American frontier, but to others, wilderness is a feeling. It’s a sense of awe and wonder that reminds us that we, humans, Americans, whoever, did not create this world. We didn’t create Half Dome Mountain or Yosemite National Park but we can appreciate it. When I look at this picture I see my family, looking out at something that humbles us. I cannot ignore the cultural implications of Yosemite or the Native Americans who have been displaced in the pursuit of preservation. I cannot ignore the sense of awe that grounds me and reminds me that whether I’m looking at Half Dome or the grove of trees in my backyard, I wouldn’t want to see anything else.

Sincerely,
Katie