Journey into the Desert

A man prepares for a month-long journey across a desert. He carefully loads his supplies and

checks his equipment, trying to convince himself he’s ready. Before he leaves, he stands with his

wife and young daughter outside their small home. There is no argument — only a quiet sadness.

He hugs them both, lingering just a moment longer than he meant to. His daughter slips

him a small hand-drawn picture to take with him. He folds it carefully and tucks it into

his jacket close to his heart. He mounts his horse and begins riding toward the horizon.

At first, the journey feels exhilarating — the desert is wide open and full of possibility.

The sunlight turns the sands gold. The wind pushes at him like an invitation. The farther he travels,