Homage of the Heart

Ryan Hiller passed away 2 weeks ago in Yosemite National Park when a tree feel on him during a wind storm. He died just shy of his 28th birthday. You may or may not have known him personally, but the words he wrote 6 years ago, at the age of 22 are worthy of anyone's attention. Please enjoy this passage, (courtesy of Haiz Oppenheimer).

I Desire

"I desire to surround myself completely with people, things, work and goals that challenge me to be the person I want to be. I desire to be that person.

I desire to be loved, to be free and for the world to be a happy place.  I desire to feel comfortable around all people in most any situation.

I desire for everyone to work hard and honest. I'd like for them to harness their horses in the morning as the sun wakes up, and as they do too. I desire hard, strenuous work as my daily medicine.

I desire close friends, who like to sit in circles and that dream of roasting venison over hot coals in the forest after a long, tiring day, as I do.

I desire to be kissed by a goddess or god as the Sun sinks low on a bright, clear and warm summer dusk. I'd like to share silence with the creator. I desire to love in return.

I desire a world without cars, hurrying, worries and loud violent noises. No bright, flashing lights. I desire one spoon for my entire existence.

I desire the complete, beautiful and brutal glory of nature.

I desire to be one among a trillion beings desiring something so bad they can't not think of it. I want them to go out there and get it.

I desire that one day, things will be better.

I desire health for the people I care about."

-Ryan Hiller on January 23, 2006, his 22nd birthday