Tombstone... where does one begin when bringing to mind those few historical blocks of tourist attractions, appearing as nothing more than a mere speck on the high desert floor. One could begin with the historical concept of silver mining, gunfighters, or the wayward women striving for their continued survival in an incredibly tough environment. Many books and movies have been, and will continue to be based around these very stories, captivating all those that merely glimpse upon their pages, or view the screen it is shown upon.

   Or would it be the passing of time, bringing with it the many changes such as gift shops, ice cream parlors, or the assorted dining establishments, yet still keeping it's ambience alive with the stage tours, re-enactments of historical happenings, and the beautiful period clothing that can be spotted somewhere in town everyday of the week.

   Books can be written on nothing more than that special 'feeling' that envelopes a mind and body, when first stepping onto a boarded walk, never letting loose it's grasp long after their departure. Most will share with you their reluctance of leaving the tiny isle in this desolate area, holding the dream of someday returning, whether it be for a return visit, or permanent re-location. Yes, there are many reasons one could share their view on this small desert berg that so many call home, whether they spend a day or a year here, or they are part of the history themselves.

   Myself, I find other treasures hidden in this main street town. Many that reside in the town they call home, arrived with nothing more than a piece of luggage, be it samsonite, or a black plastic glad bag, bearing all their worldly possessions. Some not even sure why exactly they were drawn to a dusty little place, with very little in the way of employment, health care, entertainment, or any of the other luxuries a larger city can boast. This is where that special "feeling' shows itself, and takes on a life of it's own in those that have been introduced to it.

   When one enters the town's outer limits, they either feel it or they don't, there is no in-between. An immediate bond is created between yourself, and the inhabitants you will find so attached by their heartstrings to this enchanted spot on earth. After nine years of employment in this town of my heritage, I have met more people than most meet in an entire lifetime, and nearly all have spoken of the aura surrounding this small area 70 miles from Tucson. The aura that had enveloped their lives, creating future plans they had never envisioned prior to their visit.

   "Family" comes to mind when Tombstone makes its appearance in my thoughts. It's true, being forth generation in Tombstone, that my family has been there as long as the town has, however everyone becomes family once they've arrived. Whether it be the gunfighting groups, people handing you a flier as they bark their employer's attraction, stage drivers with a friendly wave of greeting as you pass them by, or those simply taking a walk, riding their bicycles (or horses), or heading to the pharmacy or general store to replenish their needs, they all become a large part of your life. Everyone with the Marshal's Department, post office, bank, and pharmacy becoming friends on a first name basis, all as much a part of the town as the dust that blows through it, leaving you with an empty place in your heart if one moves on, whether it be to new employment, or nature's taking it's course with the reclaiming of one's life.

   When unforeseen circumstances appear, due to health, wealth, or a broken heart, there is always someone near that cares, someone offering aide in any form or fashion. Someone sharing their heart with you ... being family. Everyone comes together as a family whether they are wealthy or less fortunate, intelligent or lacking in knowledge, in tip top shape health wise, or in need of constant medical care. The unexplainable bond is there, leaving a deep longing to return if ever separated from that family. We've often commented on the large bungee cord that seems to drag one back each time the attempt to depart this town is considered. Once you have been accepted by the people, or the town ... which are not separate entities ... for they are combined as one ... you can never leave home again ... for long.