Why Waterfalls?

People often ask me why I love of waterfalls, so here's a few thoughts on why they're so special to me.

First, one of the best things about hiking is the serenity and quiet. When hiking to a waterfall, there comes a moment along the way when the distant flow of the water can be heard, signaling that you're getting close. The sound gets louder and louder until seemingly out of nowhere, you emerge into a clearing and there is the source of the sound you've been chasing - a reward for all your efforts. And it's the best sound there is!

Second, I love being so close to such power. Large natural waterfalls are used for building dams for a reason. The fall of the water is immensely powerful - constant, reliable, immense, unyielding, and sure. The best waterfalls are the ones you can get close enough to touch, to feel the weight and the pressure and the power. It is both an honor and a humbling experience to come in contact with nature's strength.

Third, I love the uniqueness of waterfalls. Each differs in height, width, sound, shape. Some cascade slowly down the rocks and others plunge dramatically from a cliff. Some come in doubles or triples. Some are barely a little trickle in the late fall, while others are large enough to bring travelers from across the entire world just to see them. No matter the landscape, the terrain, the vegetation, the water finds a way to cut through a path and get to where it wants to go. A waterfall can be found in the tropical forests of Kauai, and in the barren desert of Bryce Canyon, Utah. 

And finally, waterfalls represent what I hope to be. I long to be a peaceful space for others. I long to be powerful, relentless, adaptive, and unique. 

So this is why I follow them.

-Danielle Divis, Founder of Waterfallower