My reality is here, not just in today's wilderness, which itself is grand, but in the more ancient natural world with which I am indirectly connected. Through evolution, I was delivered here as a somewhat temporary and reluctant host for all kinds of smaller organisms that use me as surely as I use Earth's bountiful but not unlimited resources.

Whether by accident or divine intent, I have been here before on so many biological levels. Parts of me will be back again and again indefinitely, recycling the planet's energy, until our sun finally dims and all that I am will be scattered endlessly throughout the Universe. Such thoughts both humble and comfort me. -- Mark Renz

fossilx@earthlink.net