ancient mississippians

May 14, 2022

I recommend to everyone that I can to get off the interstate and see where the road will take you. Sometimes the smallest places on the map will reveal to you the brightest moments while traveling.

I traveled through southeast missouri — the bootheel — to visit an ancient site of mississippians. I was the only visitor that day. It was nearly 100 degrees in early may. Very unusual, but I was grateful. To move through these spaces is special. You can feel the presence of human hands at work by the relics that have continued on into the future.

The park ranger had just arrived to mow the lawn. He made a quick path for me to follow. I made my way slowly. Meandering through to see the mounds, the borrow pit, and the plaza area. There were two trees growing together — my only shade that afternoon— and I rested there a few times while considering what it was like to live in this paradise.

The temple mound rose above the rest of the remnants. The sun was hot, but there was a slight breeze just at the top. I stood for several moments taking in the quiet landscape. I could see farmland in every direction. The only border was a faint line of trees in the distance marking the edge of the mississippi. Dust clouds behind tractors. Vultures circling in the sky beyond.

I enjoy learning in these spaces. Remembering that humans are ancient. Our ways changing, but so many things remaining just the same.