I keep repeating: The California Floristic Province is adapted to fire. Redwoods are specifically adapted for fire. They can and do spring back, and shoot up fresh sproutlings. But…

Human hearts are adapted to being broken. Californians’ hearts are specifically adapted to being cracked by fires. Hearts can and do spring back, and shoot up fresh sproutlings. But…

California’s first state park, 1902. Chris took the family here about ten years ago. It was one of the most thrilling nature walks — and drives home — I’ve ever had. Please, God, may this holy place spring back.

UPDATE 8/25/2020: The San Jose Mercury News reports that the resident naturalists are confident of recovery! Whew. Awesome. I am now fascinated to see what will happen up there in coming months/years as the rains come (please not too much) and as the first fire-sprouters come up.