A place I most regrettably never lived and loved so much. The state of North Carolina, and in my case specifically Western N.C., was my church. Her winds whispered hymns, and she showed her strength through her omnipotent storms. But she was also kind: her dancing of fireflies in the summer and fall leaves made Appalachia look like it was ablaze; not with fire, but her love.

She has been hurt by Hurricane Helene, and in turn has devastated me. She has been my religion, and while she is healing and so blessed to know she will return one day, I won’t be able to see it in person.