Name the Wind

Spring is knocking at the door, and with it burgeoning potential. For inspiration I turn to Dark Mountain, Issue 24 – Eight Fires. The Dark Mountain Project does not disappoint. A little piece titled, “A Short Guide to Following the Wind” by Nick Hunt is perfect for my morning trek.

The winds are brisk, twenty miles an hour or so. Once on the path, I follow the “guide” closely. In an open space, I survey the landscape slowly in a 360° circle, observing and “trekking” the skyline with my eyes. I take in the sounds, the shapes, every detail that my senses bring, especially the wind.  

Choosing with care a blade of grass, strong enough to hold shape, flexible enough to act as a weather vane, I hold it in front of my body and follow its direction. It leads me to the bank of a creek. There at the edge, between water and land, I wait in silence until I can give a name to my wind.

It’s not long until I know this wind is called “The Witching Wand of the South.” It has divined the source of water. What other name could it possibly have? The name brings satisfaction, reminding me of Glinda, the Good Witch of the South from The Wonderful Wizard of Oz story. I love a good myth. What better way to begin a new season?