Rita Island, Lake Okeechobee

In the apple blossom trees, I thought I could hear ancient voices telling of Florida's history. I was amazed by the thick clusters of roots all around. That and the numerous spiders. The crazy part of Lake Okeechobee's history is that each of the three islands, on the southern rim, were settled with working communities. Rita Island is the first of the islands that I have seen. Only rows of banana trees bare witness to a passer by; the water levels are a little too high for much to be seen. My two guides told me that in the height of the drought they walked where we had to use an air boat to explore.

Little remains telling the story of Lake Okeechobee and her history. Perhaps, we should do as the Seminole tribe and speak nothing of those past. For now, my choice is to meditate in the tree hammocks trying to figure out how my history and the Lake and my photography all meld together. Maybe I go there to escape, maybe I go in search of some truths or enlightenment; maybe I go for curiosity. I will share the epiphany when revealed to me. Until then, I am busy working on images and creating the story of this part of the Glades.