EDITOR’S NOTE: This student narrative was submitted by MHS instructor Kathleen Kelley. We’re publishing it here as the first in what we hope will be a series of “Student Spotlights,” showcasing the thoughts, perspectives and writing abilities of our local students much the same way athletic prowess is highlighted on our sports pages. If you would like to sponsor publication of this series, email [email protected] or call 970-878-4017.
What makes a part of Meeker worth remembering? Some people would argue that Meeker holds a place of memories, while others say it is the community they grew up around. Although I have encountered several wonderful individuals and created many joyous moments at the Sweet Shop, Town Park, Lake Avery, and even my own house, these are not the places of Meeker I will salute. However, I will always salute the red bulls, reptiles, and sunflower seeds of Meeker, Colorado.
I cruised down County Road 7 in my Padre’s coal-black Ford on an early June day. A gusty breeze tousled my hair while the Chris Stapleton album was on repeat at peak volume. Not only is this my first time driving Padre’s precious truck since I’ve possessed my permit, but it is also my first time exploring the surroundings of Meeker outside the main street. Padre hollers his deafening voice, “Turn left!” I immediately jerked the steering wheel with my tightly gripped fingers.
Turning off the main road, we found ourselves on a winding back road that promised a journey into the heart of nature. The back road led us deeper into the mountains, where the scenery transformed from rural farmlands to mountains higher than any skyscraper. As a city girl who matured surrounded by the sounds of blaring horns and views of massive buildings on every corner, I was astonished. Although I only moved to this small town six months ago, I would have never known that Meeker would have a little dirt road off County Road 7 that would lead us to this stunning view of plentiful mountaintops that roam with vivid shrubs and yellow wildflowers.
Turning off the main road, we found ourselves on a winding back road that promised a journey into the heart of nature. The back road led us deeper into the mountains, where the scenery transformed from rural farmlands to mountains higher than any skyscraper. As a city girl who matured surrounded by the sounds of blaring horns and views of massive buildings on every corner, I was astonished.
~ Brynna Tafoya, MHS student
We continued the drive at extraordinarily sluggish speed until we discovered a decent spot where we were content to halt the truck. With the engine silenced, I jumped out of the driver’s seat and climbed into the truck bed and a makeshift haven. I rummaged through the bag of snacks until I discovered the bricks of gold and began munching on salted sunflower seeds and Juneberry-flavored Red Bull. I listened to my Padre with wide-opened eyes as I snapped open the shell of the seeds and popped them into my mouth. For a moment, I am far away from the hustle of daily life where the mountains are a sanctuary; they bear witness to laughter and conversation. Although I have always adored the bond that Padre and I hold, I knew that it was this exact moment that made it stronger. Amid our conversation, I detected a sudden movement on a red stone.
I noticed the freckled lizard basking in the rays of sunlight. With silent excitement, we observed a lizard, marveling at its elongated body. My Padre grasped the seed bag out of my hands. He has embarked on an unconventional mission — feeding sunflower seeds to a curious lizard. Armed with a handful of seeds and a twinkle in his eye, he approached the resident reptile. With a miniature feast in his palm, the lizard slowly inched closer, its tiny claws delicately touching the sunflower seeds as if testing their authenticity. A moment of connection unfolded between man and reptile, bridged by the simple act of sharing a snack under the sun. My dad slowly placed one in my hand to feed to him as well.
What others might deem as a plain day, I view as an extremely valuable experience. I learned this from Meeker where the people view every second of every day as treasured minutes. They live surrounded by Mother Nature and in humble ways. I want to remember the small town of Meeker filled with flowing conversation, scenic drives, and savory snacks. I want to remember the town of tremendous mountains that cradle me in nurturing guidance and the windy roads that shape my fond moments. The ability to cherish the simplistic joys is what I will carry on in my life beyond Meeker.
By BRYNNA TAFOYA | Special to the Herald
