Deep in the darkness of the Katale Khor cave, the spirits hovered over me, sharing their secrets. Was I ready to open my heart, look into myself, and allow these phantoms to lead me to what I greatly desired? A single woman in Iran, long believing love is an exalted state, I traveled to Katale Khor in the northwest Iran province of Zanjan to explore the cave. It is one of my country’s most revered wonders dating back to the Jurassic Period (120 million years ago). Known as “the Mount of the Sun,” it is a gallery of Nature’s art, an underground chamber promising relief for maladies of the heart.
Upon entering this vault, I walked down the “Bride’s Alley” to meet the bride and groom. There they were, the stalagmites, lovers resting in each other’s arms. Locked in a tight, all-consuming embrace, they kissed so voraciously, the sounds embarrassed the tourists. We left them in peace, knowing they would fully consummate their love. Leaving “Bride’s Alley,” I chanced upon a light, rays of pure gold. They looked so mysterious, flashing scepters in the middle of darkness, I couldn’t resist following the beam’s astonishing glow. After this phantasm darted around the cave holes, I finally realized it was a golden fish. It swam in solitude, searching for another equally-exquisite fish to play hide-n-seek with. Would the streaking fish find love?
There was more to explore in these depths, so I moved on, ultimately coming upon a shining bird perched in a nest. She sat there, regally, like a queen on her throne. Once this goddess saw me, and realized I was looking for my beloved, she sang of the sunshine of tomorrow….”that there is only one waiting for me to discover.”
I had plunged into the depths of silence, and while romance still eludes me, I had at least taken the journey. I had seen meaning in those stalagmites and cave holes.
I will wait for tomorrow, continue to explore.
