What Keeps You Going? Wildflowers!

I’ve been asked that question twice recently, in very different contexts. The first time was after I described a hike I’d just taken in Oregon’s Siskiyou Mountains. The trail was narrow and rocky, picking its way across a steep mountainside. It was hot, the footing was tricky, and I’m 73 years old with a gimpy knee. Exhilarating but hard. The second time was after I mentioned a political demonstration I’d just attended — one of many.

But both times, I answered that question about what keeps me going with no hesitation: wildflowers.

That mountain hike was through an area dominated by rocks that...