Interview with Arrow (Rabbits, Rivers, and Prickly Pears)

Guest Blog by Justine Norton-Kerston

How did you and Aster come together on this journey? What is the history of your relationship?
 
Aster’s my best friend and always will be. We grew up in Cottonwood Cove. So I guess I’d have to say our bond began in our youth. We were both restless kids, eager to explore the vast unknowns beyond our settlement. We'd often sneak out to stare at the horizon, promising each other that someday we'd find the mysteries hidden out there in the beyond.

The tale of the prickly pears was a favorite legend passed down in our community, one that always captivated us. As we grew older, our sense of adventure only intensified. When the elders spoke of the Grand Canyon and the myths associated with it, we decided it was time to uncover the truth ourselves. Driven by curiosity and the allure of discovery, we embarked on this journey together. But our history isn't just about shared adventures—it's about mutual trust, respect, and a deep understanding that we're better together. In many ways, this journey was an embodiment of the promises we made as children, staring at that horizon.
 
From what I’ve heard, the Colorado River boat ride seemed intense. What was going through your mind during that experience, and how did you manage to navigate the rapids?
 
Yeah the Colorado River ride was unlike anything I've experienced. As we approached the rapids, my heart raced and a blend of excitement and fear took over. The immense power of nature was on full display, and it was terrifying. How could you not have an awe-inspiring respect for it?

I remember thinking of our ancestors, who navigated waters like these without modern tools or knowledge. My main focus was on keeping us safe and ensuring we didn't capsize. I've had some experience with watercraft, but nothing quite this challenging. Every drop, twist, and turn of the river demanded split-second decisions. Since we weren’t all that familiar with most of the river, it all came down to trusting my instincts.
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Aster's presence was grounding. We communicated constantly, alerting each other to upcoming obstacles and adjusting our course. There were moments of sheer panic, but also exhilaration. Making it through those rapids reinforced our bond, and also reminded me of the unpredictability of nature—the importance of honoring it. Through it all, I held onto the hope that what lay beyond the tumultuous waters was worth the risk.

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Picture by Justine Norton-Kertson

​How did you come to be in the company of Jack, the hare? What's the story behind your unique bond?
 
Ah, Jack! That little bunny has been a bundle of surprises since day one. It was actually during one of my solo expeditions in the outer regions of Cottonwood Cove that I stumbled upon a burrow, collapsed from what seemed to be a minor land shift. Digging through, I discovered a young rabbit, alone and petrified. How could I just leave him there?

I named him Jack, after an old legend my mother used to tell me about a kid who climbed a giant beanstalk and explored the heavens. Over time we developed a bond, a silent understanding. Ever since the Grand Canyon expedition, Jack’s become my constant traveling companion, proving himself invaluable. You see, Jack has an innate ability to sense changes in the environment, often alerting us to potential dangers or leading us to needed water sources. He's more than just a companion—he's a partner in our adventures. Jack's keen instincts combined with Aster's resourcefulness and my experience make for quite the team. In that sense, the Grand Canyon journey wasn't just about discovery; it was also about the friendships we forged along the way, with Jack being one of the most unexpected and cherished.
 
What did you learn about yourself and your companions throughout this adventure?
What message or lesson would you like to share with others based on your experiences?
 
Throughout this journey, I've come to realize that the world is filled with hidden wonders, and sometimes they lie beyond our preconceived notions and fears. I've learned that I'm more resilient than I ever thought, but more importantly, that resilience is amplified when shared with companions. With Aster's strength and Jack's instincts, we each brought unique attributes that not only complemented but elevated one another. This adventure reinforced that, individually, we each have our strengths, but together, we form something greater.

The message I'd share is to never underestimate the value of collaboration. And be open to the unexpected. Sometimes, the most profound discoveries aren't just about places or things, but the relationships we create and the understanding we gain about ourselves and those around us. Embrace the unknown with an open heart and mind. And always remember, even in a world filled with knowns, there's still room for wonder, hope, and the possibility of finding the unexpected.
 
That’s a beautiful sentiment. Are there any other legends or places you're interested in exploring next?
 
Absolutely! Our world’s a tapestry of stories, myths, and wonders. After discovering the truth about the prickly pears, I've become even more intrigued by the tales of our ancestors. There's a particular legend about the "Whispering Sands" far out to the northwest—vast dunes said to hold the secrets of ancient civilizations. The sands are believed to murmur stories to those who listen closely. I've also heard tales of a hidden oasis, a paradise amidst the desert where rare flora and fauna thrive. Aster, Jack, and I have discussed the possibility of charting a course there someday.
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But beyond specific legends, it's the allure of the unknown that truly captivates me. The thrill of stepping into uncharted territories, of rewriting the narratives we once believed to be set in stone. Every horizon hides a new adventure, and I can't wait to see what lies beyond the next one. Every journey, after all, not only unravels the mysteries of the world but also deepens our understanding of ourselves. And that, to me, is the true essence of exploration.

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Justine Norton-Kertson created Android Press and Solarpunk Magazine. Their debut nonfiction, UTOPIAN WITCH, is forthcoming from Microcosm Publishing. They’re producer and host of the genre podcasts Unimatrix Zero and Imagitopia, and associate producer for The 7th Rule. Justine was named one of 2023’s Grist 50 Fixers. They live in Oregon.