a fence dividing two nations

To celebrate spring break, the family and I drive down the coastline to visit San Diego. On our last morning, we dip down to San Ysidro to catch a glimpse of the US-Mexico fence behind which lurks Tijuana. Around us, men and women of all ages walk down the main road, pulling small suitcases, carrying backpacks, or pushing strollers. Parking lots are full of locked cars, and we sight a minivan that’s loading up with passengers who will soon cross to visit family on the other side, carrying with them the hope that they will be allowed to reenter.

Two days later, I am back in Pasadena, and I take off for a hike along the Sam Merrill trail. As I turn off to begin my hike, I am struck by the silhouette of the San Gabriel Mountains, lush and green after the recent torrent of rains. This is what landscape should look like: No fences and certainly no walls to prevent humans and wildlife from crossing an artificial line.

the start of the Sam Merrill trail in Altadena, California

27 Mar 2017 · 16:43:42 AM