Learning Never Ends
A Palette of Sand
Last Thursday, we went on a day trip to Teide National Park. I took the banner picture in the Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre (visitor centre) near Mount Teide. I loved the colours in the surrounding geology, so when I encountered a display of sand and volcanic mineral samples sourced from the nearby slopes, I knew it would be my banner photo.
These samples show the variety of colours found in the island’s volcanic geology — ranging from jet black and charcoal grey to terracotta orange, brick red, creamy beige, pale lavender, and bright white.
At various times of day, depending on the light, the clouds, and the quality of the air, you see different shades and shapes. “This diversity reflects Tenerife’s volcanic origins, where different minerals, lava compositions, and oxidation levels all produce distinct hues — an image of how geologically rich the Canary Islands are beneath your feet.” Info at the museum
La Gomera
The unspoiled and second smallest island in the archipelago, which we reached by ferry today. Another wonderful adventure of sea to sky winding roads and a much more lush vegetation. I will include photos to give you a peek. However, two things stood out – the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Garajonay National Park, which includes an ancient laurel cloud forest, a relic of forests that used to cover most of Europe millions of years ago.
And El Silbo – The Whistled Language
Imagine my surprise to discover this unique whistling language; the only fully developed whistled language in the world practiced by a large community — over 22,000 inhabitants, on Gomera. (the entire population) UNESCO declared it an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2009. which is recognized by UNESCO and is a compulsory subject taught in schools on this island from the age of six through high school.
Short background
The whistled language, Silbo Gomero, developed out of pure practical necessity. La Gomera is a deeply rugged island carved by steep ravines and mountains, making travel between villages slow and difficult. Whistling could carry across valleys and gorges for up to 2–3 kilometers, allowing inhabitants to communicate messages — about daily life, warnings, or calls for help — far more efficiently than shouting or physically crossing the terrain. It essentially served as the island’s long-distance communication network long before telephones existed.
Notes
There is time here to mull over the world’s problems. No chance of solving anything, but an opportunity to grapple with the things we can do something about. And at least consider situations that, although we can’t solve, we can perhaps nudge and influence, even a tiny bit, in our own circles of influence. Tiny steps. Trim Tabs. Ordinary moments that give us extraordinary opportunities.
Beautiful photos, so interesting to learn about the whistling language. Thanks for sharing. Namaste
Thank you dear Cheryl. It was lovely to hear from you. Namaste, Trudy
Ironic. Jims brother and wife are headed to Tenerife now. They have friends they met when living in Papau New Guinea. We await photos from them. Didn’t know anything about where they were headed. Enjoy your trip. Thank you for sharing. Love Tamara and Jim
Hi Tamara: What a lovely coincidence! You got a head start on your inlaws. :-)I hope they enjoy their trip as much as I am. Warm greetings to you and Jim, Trudy
Thank you, Trudy, for this beautiful post:-) Big hug to you and keep your good spirit to enjoy the beautiful area!
Thank you Sabine, for your encouraging words and your big heart smile. Warmly, Trudy
A whistling language!! now there’s something brand new to me, as is the gorgeous geologic palette you have shown us. Sounds like a most amazing and beautiful experience dear Trudy, so happy for you. Want to hear lots about it on your return 🙂 xoxoxo
I found the “whistling language” fascinating. Lots to talk about when I come home. Thank you dear Janice. As always, Trudy
I am loving your posts about your trip to the Canary Islands. It is a place I have always wanted to travel to and experience. What a fascinating thing to learn of the whistling language. Makes so much sense. Your posts are a bright positive light in our darker times. Thank you so much Trudy for sharing your experiences with us. 💛
Hi Julie: Lovely to hear from you and I am delighted that you are enjoying my posts. It is kind of you to let me know. Warmly, Trudy
Wow Trudy,is all I can think. What a beautiful, interesting part of our world and what a gift,that someone like you can experience it. Your “JOY HEART “will be full for ages. My heart is full just thinking of you experiencing all this wonder.
Thanks dear Jean: Each day has something new to see and learn. Such a wonderful opportunity. How kind of you to take joy in my joy. Warmly, Trudy