Tikal

Tikal, the ancient ruins of the great Mayan Empire. Grand plazas and steep pyramids settle in the peaceful jungle of northern Guatemala. I imagined, long ago, people climbing the same stairs, selling fresh vegetables and celebrating traditional festivals. I most enjoyed the quiet spot, emersed in the jungle near the oldest of the structures: Mundo Perdido, the Lost City.

I saw a black bird between the trees. I thought it was a turkey; but as I got a better look, I noticed his red neck and white spots on his belly. He flew to meet his woman on a branch. I spent over an hour with these two birds, Bob and Barb. I would hear the howler monkeys nearby and the birds overhead. Bob and Barb just sat and observed, just as I. There is so much to hear and see: flies in my ear, the twinkling leaves in the sunlight, the breeze, the cracks of the branches, the ants marching in their phalanx.

Returning the main ruins, I understand why the Mayans built their great city here. In Tikal, the Mayans proclaimed themselves the kings and queens of the land.