The Big Thompson River

The Big Thompson River really isn't that "big" at all. Perhaps it was named after its length rather than its width. Or maybe its flow in the spring-time. In the Spring, after a winter of good snowfall, it speaks in a language somewhere between a roil and a gurgle.

Is the Big Thompson male or female? I would guess female, because of all the life the river nurtures. Humming birds dive bomb her waters in search of a refreshing drink. Trout swim her waters, looking for insects and dodging fly fishermen. Lilies and a myriad of other flowers drink from the marshes she creates. Elk graze on the long grasses and find shelter from over-eager tourists behind her winding banks.

The Big Thompson river in Moraine Park, a glacial basin, sustains, breeds, and protects life. She nurtures my life when I sit on her banks listening to her speak words of wisdom and peace.

"Be gentle. Slow down. Go with the flow. Or fight hard against it when you are losing your life. Let nature protect you and guide your soul. She will only guide you to the truth."